"FF14 Collab Not a FF9 Remake, Director Clarifies"

Final Fantasy 14's producer and director, Naoki Yoshida, has recently addressed the swirling rumors about a potential Final Fantasy 9 remake. Dive into his insights to understand the situation better.

FF14’s Yoshi-P Shuts Down FF9 Remake Rumors

No Connection Between FF14 Collaboration and FF9 Remake, Said Yoshida

Naoki Yoshida, the beloved producer and director of Final Fantasy 14, has put to rest the persistent rumors about a Final Fantasy 9 remake. His comments follow the recent FF14 collaboration event, which sparked speculation due to its numerous references to the iconic 1999 Japanese role-playing game.

Speculation grew that this event might signal an upcoming remake announcement. However, Yoshida firmly clarified that the FF14 collaboration was not connected to any remake plans.

"In our vision for Final Fantasy XIV, we see it as a theme park celebrating the entire Final Fantasy franchise," Yoshida explained in an interview with JPGames. "Including elements from Final Fantasy IX was a natural fit."

He emphasized that the timing of the collaboration was unrelated to any potential remake. "We never considered Final Fantasy IX in the context of a remake; it wasn't about commercial strategy," he noted, acknowledging the marketing speculation but distancing it from their intentions.

Despite dismissing the remake rumors, Yoshida's enthusiasm for Final Fantasy 9 was evident. "Many on our development team are huge fans of Final Fantasy IX," he shared.

He also highlighted the game's extensive content, saying, "Final Fantasy IX is a massive game. If we waited for a remake, we'd be waiting indefinitely, wondering when we could capture its essence in our homage." This sentiment struck a chord with fans, who appreciated the nods to FF9 within FF14, from subtle hints to overt references.

While the interview quashed hopes for an immediate remake announcement, Yoshida ended on a hopeful note. "Should any team decide to tackle a remake of Final Fantasy IX," he said with a smile, "I would certainly wish them the best of luck."

For now, rumors of a Final Fantasy 9 remake remain just that—rumors without substance. Fans eager for a remake will have to enjoy the homage in Final Fantasy 14: Dawntrail or practice patience as they wait for any official news.