Final Fantasy IX Remake Hinted for Switch 2 Anniversary

Excitement has reignited surrounding the long-rumored Final Fantasy IX remake following Square Enix's launch of an official 25th Anniversary website.

The Japanese-language website commemorates Final Fantasy IX's original release date (July 7, 2000) and highlights this year's silver anniversary milestone.

"We're working on various commemorative projects including merchandise and collaborations - please stay tuned!" reads the website's announcement.

This seemingly routine statement, combined with the website's existence itself, has fueled speculation that Square Enix might finally unveil the highly anticipated Final Fantasy IX remake.

Observant fans noted the timing coincides with Nintendo's upcoming Switch 2-focused Direct presentation scheduled for April 2. Could this event finally host the remake announcement? Many enthusiasts are crossing their fingers.

However, expectations should be tempered - the website specifically references merchandise and collaborations, though the vague "various projects" phrasing has certainly stirred discussion.

During interviews last year, Final Fantasy XIV producer Naoki 'Yoshi-P' Yoshida discussed potential remake challenges, suggesting the project's scale might require multiple installments.

"While we recognize fan demand for a Final Fantasy IX remake, the original game contained massive content volume," Yoshida explained. "Packaging everything into a single remake title presents significant challenges."

Yoshida hinted the project might follow Final Fantasy VII Remake's multi-part approach.

Earlier this year, Yoshida unveiled Final Fantasy IX-themed bonuses for Final Fantasy XIV's Dawntrail expansion collector's editions, including the Ark summon as an in-game mount and Princess Garnet minion. Pre-orders included protagonist Zidane's miniature version.

During PAX East, Yoshida cryptically teased: "You've probably noticed numerous Final Fantasy IX references here... but the reason remains secret," while miming zipping his lips.

Final Fantasy XIV Dawntrail Final Fantasy IX Collector's Bonuses

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Remake speculation intensified after the project appeared in Nvidia's 2021 leaked game list - later confirmed authentic but potentially outdated. The list accurately predicted several Square Enix releases including Chrono Cross remaster and Kingdom Hearts 4.

However, two listed projects - Final Fantasy IX remake and Final Fantasy Tactics - remain unannounced. Earlier in 2021, reports surfaced about an animated Final Fantasy IX series in development, though updates have been absent since.