Final Fantasy IX Remake Reportedly in Jeopardy, According to Insider

The long-rumored Final Fantasy IX remake may have hit development troubles—or even been shelved—according to a trusted gaming industry insider. The news surfaced just as Square Enix celebrated the beloved RPG’s 25th anniversary with new merchandise and a commemorative video, but without any mention of the rumored remake.

Originally released for the PlayStation on July 7, 2000, Final Fantasy IX was the final numbered entry for Sony’s first console. The game returned the series to its medieval fantasy roots, captivating fans with a vibrant cast including Zidane, Vivi, and Freya. Its heartfelt story and timeless charm have made it one of the most revered entries in the franchise.

In honor of the milestone, Square Enix unveiled new artwork from original character designer Toshiyuki Itahana, featuring key characters posed in iconic locations like the Iifa Tree and the Tantalus theater. A special art book focused on Vivi is also available for pre-order, among other collectible items.

However, not all the buzz was celebratory. Days before the anniversary, insider NateTheHate posted on ResetEra suggesting the remake project could be in trouble. “As of my last check, it was still in development,” he wrote. “But I heard about a month ago that it might be in trouble—possibly even canceled. I need to follow up to confirm.” He emphasized that the cancellation claim came from just one source and has yet to be fully verified.

The remake was originally mentioned in the infamous GeForce Now leak of 2021, which listed multiple unannounced titles. Since then, Square Enix has offered no official confirmation of the project’s existence.

Despite the anniversary fanfare, the absence of a remake announcement left some fans disappointed, fearing Square Enix may have missed an ideal opportunity to reveal the project. For now, the Final Fantasy IX remake remains unconfirmed and uncertain, and fans are advised to manage expectations until more concrete news emerges.