TV

Final Fantasy 9 Animated Series Resurrected, Eyes 2028 Premiere

Final Fantasy 9 Animated Series Resurrected, Eyes 2028 Premiere
Image credit: Legion-Media

The Final Fantasy 9 animated series, once believed canceled, is back in production with a new studio and is set for a 2028 debut as a 13-episode 2D show.

Fans of the beloved RPG have reason to celebrate: the animated adaptation of Final Fantasy 9, previously thought to be shelved for good, is making a comeback. After its initial announcement in 2021, the project seemed doomed when its original studio, Cyber Group Studios, shut down earlier this year. Many assumed the show had quietly disappeared along with the company.

But recent developments have breathed new life into the series. According to a report from a French entertainment magazine, the production has shifted to Euro Visual, a different studio. The revived project is now aiming for a 2028 release, with plans for a 2D animated format spanning 13 episodes, each running about 22 minutes.

New Studio, New Direction

The magazine’s report includes a fresh synopsis, revealing that the story will center on six Black Mages, all children of Vivi, one of the original game’s most memorable characters. This new angle offers a unique perspective on the world of Gaia, expanding on the legacy of the original cast while introducing new faces to longtime fans and newcomers alike.

Details about the plot align closely with information that surfaced earlier this year, including a leaked summary and key artwork for a project titled "Final Fantasy 9: The Black Mages' Legacy." The artwork features six Black Mages, one of whom appears to be frozen, matching both the leaked and official descriptions.

What to Expect from the Animated Series

While the show’s storyline seems to diverge from the main events of the classic game, it promises to explore the emotional and magical journey of Vivi’s children. The 2D animation style is expected to capture the charm and whimsy that made the original game a fan favorite, while the episodic format allows for deeper character development and world-building.

Despite the excitement surrounding the animated series, there’s no indication that this project is connected to the long-rumored remake of Final Fantasy 9. Still, the revival of the show after its near-cancellation has sparked hope among fans that more surprises could be on the horizon for this iconic franchise.