Square Enix officially announced a new picture book for Final Fantasy IX as part of the 25th-anniversary celebration. The story explores Vivi’s origins and is now available for purchase.

Final Fantasy IX Honors 25th Anniversary

Picture Book Now Available in Japan

Final Fantasy IX, which first launched on July 7, 2000, continues its 25th-anniversary festivities with the release of a new picture book titled "Vivi and Grandpa On the Day of Departure." The 44-page prequel was co-created by Event Designer Kazuhiko Aoki and Character Designer Toshiyuki Itahana. It tells the touching story of Vivi, the Black Mage, and his grandfather Quan before the events of the main game.

This isn’t the first collaboration between Aoki and Itahana; the pair previously worked together on "Chocobo and the Airship," released in Japan in 2021 and globally in 2023. The new picture book can be purchased digitally or as a physical copy from Amazon Japan and Rakuten for 1,320 yen (approximately $9 USD).

Alongside the picture book, Square Enix has introduced a variety of exclusive Final Fantasy IX merchandise. While some items are limited to Japan, others including plush toys, apparel like Vivi’s Hat, and a special vinyl album featuring original and newly recorded tracks are available through Square Enix’s global online store. These items can also be found at the brand's pop-up shop in Osaka, with another set to open in Tokyo on July 25, 2025.

Limited-Edition Eyewear Collaboration with Zoff

In addition to standard merchandise, Square Enix partnered with Japanese eyewear brand Zoff for a limited-edition collection celebrating Final Fantasy IX’s milestone anniversary. The line includes three unique frame styles, each accompanied by exclusive glasses wipes and themed cases. This collaboration is currently only available at select Zoff stores:

?? Zoff Grand Tokyo Shibuya
?? Zoff Ikebukuro Sunshine City Alpa
?? Zoff Yaechika
?? Zoff Fukuoka Parco
?? Zoff Grand Front Osaka

The fitting event will run from July 7 to August 3, 2025. Online reservations are expected to start in early July. Participating locations will also offer capsule toys with collectible glasses wipes. More information regarding availability and store details will be shared via Zoff’s official website and social media platforms.

While excitement builds around the 25th-anniversary celebration, there has been no mention of a remaster or remake of Final Fantasy IX. Instead, Square Enix is focusing on expanding the game’s merchandise offerings, giving fans multiple ways to engage with the classic title. With a newly arranged vinyl album and fresh stories being told, many fans still hold out hope for future developments.

Sources:
The Official Square Enix Store
OFFICIAL 25th ANNIVERSARY FINAL FANTASY IX
Eyeglass brand "Zoff" × "FFIX " collaboration decision!

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