 |
| Final Fantasy 9 25th Anniversary banner is shown |
The revival of Final Fantasy IX: The Black Mages' Legacy proves that some stories are too powerful to stay frozen in time. While the long-rumored game remake remains shrouded in mystery, a new generation is set to discover the magic of Gaia through the eyes of Vivi's children.
The long-dormant animated series based on Final Fantasy IX has been pulled back from the brink. After its original production studio collapsed, the project now has a new home, a target release date of 2028, and a clear mission: to introduce a younger audience to the beloved world of Gaia through a sequel story centered on Vivi Ornitier's six children.
This revival has reignited discussions within the fan community about what it means for the even more elusive Final Fantasy IX remake, a project that exists only in the realm of leaks and rumors. With Square Enix currently focused on concluding its ambitious Final Fantasy VII Remake trilogy, the future of a FFIX remake remains one of gaming's great unanswered questions.
A Phoenix Down for a Fallen Project: The Anime's New Lease on Life
The journey for Final Fantasy IX: The Black Mages' Legacy has been fraught with uncertainty. First announced in 2021 by the Paris-based Cyber Group Studios, the project went silent for years before the studio's financial troubles became public in 2024, culminating in its liquidation in early 2025. For a time, it appeared the series was lost.
However, a recent report in the French magazine Écran Total has confirmed the show is back in production. The project has been acquired by Euro Visual, another French animation studio, which is moving forward with the original creative vision.
The core details of the series, as outlined in production materials and the recent report, are as follows:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Title | Final Fantasy IX: The Black Mages' Legacy |
| Format | 2D Animated Series |
| Episode Count | 13 episodes |
| Episode Length | 22 minutes each |
| Target Audience | Children aged 6-13 |
| Target Release | 2028 |
| Production Studio | Euro Visual (formerly Cyber Group Studios) |
The story is not a direct adaptation of the 2000 PlayStation game but a sequel set years later. It follows Mel, Koln, Luciola, Théa, Fala, and Doc—the six children of the iconic black mage, Vivi. They live peacefully in Alexandria until a mysterious event, beginning with Mel being found "frozen like a statue," suggests that the tragic legacy of their father may be catching up to them
 |
| Final Fantasy IX: The Black Mages' Legacy description |
 |
| Final Fantasy IX: The Black Mages' Legacy artwork |
The Elephant in the Room: What Does This Mean for the FFIX Remake?
For many fans, the anime news is bittersweet. While exciting, it amplifies the silence surrounding the highly sought-after Final Fantasy IX remake. Speculation has run rampant for years, primarily fueled by the title's appearance on a leaked Nvidia GeForce Now list in 2021. Notably, most other games on that list have since been officially announced or released.
The connection between the anime and a potential game is a source of much debate:
- The Hopeful Perspective: Some fans see continued investment in the FFIX brand—through this anime and a recent wave of merchandise—as a sign that Square Enix is building momentum for a larger revival, with a remake as the centerpiece.
- The Pragmatic View: Most analysts and reporters caution against linking the two projects. The anime was greenlit in 2021 by a separate studio, and its revival is likely a business decision independent of Square Enix's internal game development plans, which are famously slow and subject to change.
Recent rumors from respected leakers in late 2025 have suggested that if a FFIX remake is in development, it may currently be "on hold" or facing significant delays. Square Enix's public focus is unmistakably elsewhere: on completing the Final Fantasy VII Remake saga.
Director Naoki Hamaguchi recently stated that the core gameplay for the third and final part is "almost complete," moving into a polishing phase. This has led to widespread industry speculation that the untitled conclusion could aim for a 2026 or early 2027 release, potentially coinciding with the original game's 30th anniversary. A project of this magnitude naturally commands the bulk of the company's remake resources.
Where to Experience the Original Magic Today
For fans eager to return to the world of Final Fantasy IX, the original game remains widely accessible and holds up remarkably well. It is available on almost every modern platform, including:
- Nintendo Switch (and Switch 2 via backward compatibility)
- PlayStation 4 & 5 (via backward compatibility)
- Xbox One & Series X/S (via backward compatibility)
- PC (via Steam and the Microsoft Store)
- iOS and Android devices
The game's timeless art style, poignant story, and classic Active Time Battle combat continue to charm new players, proving that some adventures don't need a remake to remain essential.
The Community's Voice: Copium, Hope, and Cautious Optimism
The announcement has sparked lively discussion in fan communities. On forums like ResetEra, reactions range from unbridled excitement ("WE ARE SO BACK") to resigned longing ("I want the game man, not the Anime"). Many are simply happy that the creative vision for the anime, which they praised after seeing leaked concept art and storyboards, will get a chance to be realized.
Others theorize that Square Enix's persistence in getting this anime made, despite a studio bankruptcy, signals a long-term commitment to the FFIX IP that could eventually extend to a game.
The Legacy Continues
The revival of Final Fantasy IX: The Black Mages' Legacy ensures that the world of Gaia will not be forgotten. By 2028, a new audience of children may find their gateway into this beloved fantasy realm through Vivi's descendants, while longtime fans will get a rare, official glimpse into the world's future.
While the dream of a full-scale, modern remake remains in a state of suspended animation, the enduring love for Final Fantasy IX is clearer than ever. Whether through nostalgic replays, new merchandise, or this surprising animated sequel, the journey to remember the crystals and the meaning of life is far from over.
Do you think the animated series is a testing ground for a larger FFIX revival, or a standalone project? What are your hopes for Vivi's children's story? Share your thoughts and theories on what this means for the future of Final Fantasy IX.