‘Final Fantasy 9’ Remake Rumors Debunked For Now – But The Children’s Book Is Definitely Happening!
by Andrew Berson
Final Fantasy VII Reunion (Image: Square Enix)
You may have thought a Final Fantasy 9 remake was in the works due to the vast social media posts and headlines, but that sadly isn’t the case. This was not a Final Fantasy 9 game reveal, but a different project.
A new children’s book, Final Fantasy IX Picture Book: Vivi and Grandpa’s Memories for the Sky, is set to release on May 19, 2026. The story centers on Vivi, one of the most cherished characters. This addition brought back nostalgia for many fans.
A lot of sites and people on social media made it look like a new Final Fantasy 9 game was in the works. Final Fantasy 9 search numbers skyrocketed even without any official announcement that there would be a remake of the game.
That said, there is an argument for fans continuing to believe they will eventually see a remake. In addition to several other game ideas, including Chrono Cross remastered, Final Fantasy Tactics remastered, and Kingdom Hearts 4, the well-known “leak” of the Nvidia GeForce Now database list also included “Final Fantasy 9 Remake.”
That makes Final Fantasy 9 one of the few Square Enix leaks yet to be realized, and insiders (such as NateTheHate) continue to claim it is still under development, possibly releasing by or before 2026.
TechRadar suggested that, if there is one, a Final Fantasy 9 remake will probably be a slightly refreshed version of the original game on a smaller scale than a Final Fantasy 7 Remake-type reimagining. They believe this because it will be easier to accomplish within Square Enix’s budget.
With the silent twenty-fifth anniversary, some fans have given up hope, but Square Enix continues to invest in Final Fantasy 9 side projects and merchandise, showing the game hasn’t been forgotten. Although there has been no announcement, more signs point to the game eventually being revealed.
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