Final Fantasy IX, a cherished gem in the storied Final Fantasy series, stands as the last main installment released for the PlayStation One. As its 25th anniversary approaches on July 7, 2025, fans are eagerly looking back at what made this game so special.
In celebration of this milestone, Square Enix has unveiled a dedicated anniversary website. This new hub offers fans a chance to grab some nostalgia-packed merchandise including plush toys, collectible figures, music tracks, and books, all reminiscent of the game’s rich world and characters.
But that’s not all. On Reddit, fans are buzzing with speculation that this website might be laying the groundwork for a long-anticipated announcement: a remake of Final Fantasy IX. This rumor has been swirling for some time and now, as the anniversary looms, the chatter has only intensified.
Adding fuel to the rumor fire is a notable leak from 2021. According to VGA, data pulled from the GeForce NOW database hinted at a Final Fantasy IX remake supposedly in development. Interestingly, this same list also mentioned several projects that have since become reality, like the Chrono Cross Remaster and Kingdom Hearts 4.
Despite the excitement, it’s important to maintain a bit of skepticism. As of now, Square Enix hasn’t officially confirmed any plans to remake Final Fantasy IX. However, insights from an IGN interview with Naoki Yoshida, the producer/director of Final Fantasy XIV, offer a tantalizing glimpse into the possibility. When questioned about a potential Final Fantasy IX remake, Yoshida acknowledged the demand but highlighted the complexities involved: “Considering the game’s vast content, one wonders if it could be remade as a single title. It’s a challenging endeavor.”
If Square Enix does choose to pursue a remake, they might adopt a strategy similar to the multi-part approach used in the Final Fantasy VII Remake series.
Now, the question on every fan’s mind: Will Final Fantasy IX indeed receive the ambitious reimagining treatment akin to that of its predecessor?
As a long-time admirer of Final Fantasy IX, I’m personally hopeful. The game has always held a special place in my heart due to its intricate storyline, memorable characters, and enchanting medieval fantasy setting. Its intricately crafted turn-based combat system helped solidify my love for JRPGs, even surpassing the impact of Final Fantasy VII for me.
If a remake is on the horizon, I sincerely wish they preserve the original turn-based combat system. This classic approach offers a charm that real-time combat, found in recent titles like Final Fantasy XVI and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, often lacks for traditionalists.
Moreover, it would be fantastic to see this potential remake expand its platform availability to include Xbox consoles and PC. That way, it can stand alongside beloved classics getting fresh looks, such as Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster, the Live A Live Remake, and the Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake.
Ultimately, whether or not these whispers of a remastered return to Gaia become a reality remains to be seen. But one thing is sure—excitement and anticipation are running high as we await possible surprises from Square Enix.