Square Enix has officially announced that the Final Fantasy IX Picture Book, featuring beloved characters Vivi and his grandfather, will be localized for release in Western markets. The illustrated book, which had previously been available only in Japan, is now scheduled to arrive in May 2026, offering fans outside of Japan an opportunity to revisit the cherished world of Final Fantasy IX in a new format.
The news comes as part of the broader celebration of the franchise’s 25th anniversary, an event that has reignited attention on Final Fantasy IX through new artwork and other commemorative projects. The Picture Book, designed to capture the charm and innocence of the series’ magical world, will undoubtedly appeal to longtime fans who hold Vivi in particular high regard.
Earlier this year, Square Enix sparked fresh speculation about a potential Final Fantasy IX remake by updating its anniversary website with newly drawn character art from the original designer, Toshiyuki Itahana. The updated illustrations, combining modern design sensibilities with faithful respect for the source material, were seen by many as a signal that the rumored remake might still be on the horizon.
Rumors of a Final Fantasy IX remake have circulated since at least 2021, after the title was spotted on a leaked list of projects from the NVIDIA GeForce Now database. Since then, insiders such as Jeff Grubb and ResetEra user Im A Hero Too have reinforced claims that a remake could be underway, describing it as a more conservative reimagining that would preserve the game’s turn-based roots, in contrast to the more radical approach taken by the Final Fantasy VII Remake.
Other projects tied to Final Fantasy IX have faced challenges. For example, an animated series proposal titled Final Fantasy IX: The Black Mages’ Legacy, which was to explore the lives of Vivi’s magical children, ran into severe obstacles after Cyber Group Studios, the intended production partner, filed for bankruptcy in 2024.
While no remake has been officially announced, the new Final Fantasy IX Picture Book serves as a meaningful tribute that honors the classic RPG’s legacy.
