After rumored Final Fantasy 9 remake cancellation, new Zidane figure gives Square Enix fans hope

Square Enix's 25th Anniversary celebration has yet to confirm a Final Fantasy 9 remake. However, the game remains in the spotlight, with Famitsu recently featuring the RPG on its cover. Now, a redesigned figure for the protagonist Zidane could suggest the remake may still surface.

The lack of an announcement for the Square Enix title is no surprise to leaker NateTheHate2. Shortly before the July 7th anniversary date, he revealed that the project was in danger of cancellation. Nevertheless, the publisher still has much of its focus on the more beloved Final Fantasy games.

Discovered by Twisted Voxel and shared on social media by Genki, there is a new addition to the Play Arts Shin series of figures. The Zidane collectible showcases some notable differences from past depictions of the character. Buyers can also personalize the figure with various poses, weapons, and other accessories.

The reimagined Zidane also graces the front of the Famitsu magazine. Similar artwork accompanies the 18-page article and interviews with the original game's creators. The wording "Once more, to the place of memories" sparks hopes that Square Enix hasn't shelved the Final Fantasy 9 remake.

It's also possible that the publisher intended to use the character redesign before cancelling the remake. A 2021 Nvidia GeForce Now leak included it in a long list of games, with most becoming a reality. NateTheHate2 indicated that the title had been in development before problems arose.

Sadly, major gaming events have continued without any mention of the Square Enix game. The Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase is among them, although it did show footage from Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles. If the Final Fantasy 9 remake survives, Gamescom on August 20th or the September Tokyo Game Show may be the next opportunity for an announcement.