Final Fantasy is a video game franchise that needs no introduction for long-time gamers. With the sixteenth title in the mainline franchise on its way to Playstation 5 and countless spin-offs such as Chocobo's Dungeon, Tactics, Crystal Chronicles, Brave Exvius, Chocobo Racing, the mega-franchise has something to offer everyone.
In addition to the video games, Square Enix is now set to use one of the mainline titles as the basis for an animated adaptation. As the game chosen was Final Fantasy IX, a popular title with a cartoonish aesthetic, the series is aimed at an audience between the ages of 8 and 13.
For adults who grew up playing the game, the animation is looking to stay true to its roots under the supervision of Square Enix. Together with Cyber Group Studios, the IP is set to introduce Zidane, Garnet, Steiner, Vivi, Quina, Eiko, Amarant, and Freya to a new medium in hopes to bridge generations.
The following statement was released by Pierre Sissmann and Dominique Bourse, Cyber Group Studios' Chairman of the Board & CEO, and COO Dominique Bourse, respectively.
“We are honored and enthusiastic to participate with our friends of Square Enix in such a great adventure. The opportunity to reach such a large crowd with hundreds of millions of fans around the world as well as a new public of both kids and adults is an immense challenge that we feel extremely proud about. It is a dream come true for our teams in France and in the U.S and we already look forward to creating a great piece of entertainment that respects this fantastic brand.”
Do you guys think this will be a faithful adaptation? What other Final Fantasy titles could be adapted next? Be sure to share your thoughts on this development in the usual spot!
For those unfamiliar with Final Fantasy IX, we've included the game's synopsis below.
Zidane and the Tantalus Theater Troupe have kidnapped Princess Garnet, the heir of Alexandria. To their surprise, however, the princess herself yearned to escape the castle. Through a series of unusual circumstances, she and her personal guard, Steiner, fall in with Zidane and set out on an incredible journey. Meeting unforgettable characters like Vivi and Quina along the way, they learn about themselves, the secrets of the Crystal, and a malevolent force that threatens to destroy their world.
Lovers of Final Fantasy will certainly dig our exclusive interviews with Chocolina voice actress Julie Nathanson (Batman: The Long Halloween) and Penelo voice actress Catherine Taber (Star Wars: The Clone Wars) below!
Final Fantasy IX was released in 2000 and was remastered for Switch, Xbox, and Windows 10 in 2019.