A Final Fantasy 9 Remake Sounds Disastrous, But Could Prove An Important Point About Modern Video Games

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Be aware that this discussion may reveal key plot points from Final Fantasy VII Remake, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, and Final Fantasy IX.

Given the buzz surrounding potential remakes of Final Fantasy IX, I find myself experiencing a touch of apprehension. Much of my unease arises from Square Enix’s previous release of a remastered version of the original Final Fantasy IX, which is now playable on contemporary systems and retains its charm for devoted fans while also introducing it to new players. However, an even more significant concern is Square Enix’s approach towards the Final Fantasy VII Remake trilogy and the general perception of remakes within the gaming community.

Discussing game preservation, it’s essential to note that, as per the Video Game History Foundation, an astounding 87% of video games created before 2010 are considered “critically endangered.” In simpler terms, this means that only about 13% of these vintage games are easily playable today. This implies a significant number of classic video games could vanish into oblivion without any chance of retrieval.

Companies aren’t neglecting the preservation of their popular titles; on the contrary, they’ve been actively making an effort to do so. For instance, Capcom has given fans updated versions of fan favorites like Resident Evil, Ace Attorney, and Mega Man through remasters and re-releases. Konami has also responded to demand with a Metal Gear collection, while Square Enix has been busy releasing remastered editions of Kingdom Hearts and Final Fantasy games.

Instead of simply re-creating old favorites, many companies are opting for “reimaginings,” where they modernize controls, graphics, or story elements in classic games to cater to contemporary audiences. Titles like Resident Evil 2, Silent Hill 2, Demon’s Souls, and Dead Space exemplify this trend. These games were originally hailed as masterpieces, making it logical for developers to revisit them with fresh perspectives rather than trying to perfectly recreate the past. However, in the process of updating these classics, some aspects that made the originals so memorable may be lost or altered significantly. This is noticeable in Square Enix’s Final Fantasy VII Remake trilogy, which isn’t just an update but a complete reimagining of the original game, transforming it into a new experience based on Final Fantasy VII.

As a devoted fan, I must admit that the idea of Square Enix completely reimagining Final Fantasy IX leaves me feeling uncertain. Instead of maintaining its original essence, I’d prefer them to focus on updating it while preserving the core spirit of the game.

Upon Square Enix officially unveiling the remake of Final Fantasy VII, there was a mix of excitement and apprehension. Questions arose such as whether it would retain its classic turn-based system, stay faithful to the narrative of the original game, and be released as a standalone title. Over time, our queries were addressed with the development of a three-part series that incorporates real-time combat instead of turn-based mechanics, and alters crucial story elements from the initial game, effectively transforming Final Fantasy VII Remake into a follow-up to the original Final Fantasy VII. In the end, it’s clear that the remade version won’t replace the original gaming experience, regardless of one’s perspective on it.

The speculation arises: Could Final Fantasy IX be due for a remake? Given that there’s already a contemporary remaster available, Square Enix might aim for a more elaborate remake similar to the treatment of Final Fantasy 7 Remake. So, will this new version be a fresh take? Might Square Enix compromise the original’s unique charm and idiosyncrasies to appeal to modern tastes? Known as a tribute to the classic era of Final Fantasy games, Final Fantasy IX’s visual style and gameplay echo its roots. The game showcases some of the most beautiful artwork in the series through pre-rendered backgrounds that breathe life into Gaia, reminiscent of storybook illustrations and enhancing the game’s more fantastical setting. I ponder if the enchantment of Final Fantasy IX’s world might diminish if it were to be overhauled with 3D environments in a remake.

I’m curious if a remake of Final Fantasy IX might result in modifications to its storyline, similar to what we saw with the VII Remake. Moments like the Mog or Vivi revelations could potentially be rewritten, reducing their emotional impact. One reason Final Fantasy IX is so highly respected is due to its exceptional storytelling within the Final Fantasy series. A ground-up remake could introduce creative changes that significantly alter our perception of the story. For instance, Square Enix altered the iconic moment of Aerith’s death in Final Fantasy VII, replacing it with a blend of visions, dreams, and time jumps in the Rebirth edition. This transformation diluted the original impact, making it less recognizable, confusing, and significantly less powerful.

Could we imagine a universe where Square Enix decides to abandon the Active Time Battle (ATB) system from classic games like Final Fantasy IX, opting instead for more action-oriented gameplay that caters to fans of modern titles like Final Fantasy XVI and Final Fantasy VII Remake? The ATB system in these older games encouraged strategic thinking and careful consideration of each move. However, in the remake of Final Fantasy VII, players often find themselves repeatedly pressing the attack command during battles, with the use of abilities more predominant in late-game fights and boss encounters. It’s worth noting that the shift to real-time action in FFVII feels somewhat fitting given its futuristic setting, but for Final Fantasy IX, which is steeped in fantasy, the classic ATB system is an integral part of its identity. Changes like these might also influence other interactive sequences, such as the sword fight tournament, potentially transforming it into a quick-time event similar to the Shinra parade in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth.

In simpler terms, Final Fantasy IX isn’t flawless; some aspects could have been more fully developed. For instance, Trance is a new take on the Limit Break system from Final Fantasy VII, where party members can change into stronger forms after receiving significant damage. Although it doesn’t always function smoothly, Trance effectively expresses the character’s growing rage and determination in a battle, contributing to the game’s overall appeal. Removing elements like codec calls from Metal Gear Solid games for the sake of simplification would be similar – you’d lose an essential piece of its character that later installments indeed streamlined.

A possible shift might involve Zidane’s character. Although he is adored for many reasons, he does possess some questionable personality traits, such as his tendency toward womanizing and flirting excessively with Garnet. Yet, these traits add depth to his development throughout the story, making his supposed death and return to Garnet one of the most touching moments in the series. If they alter Zidane’s character too drastically to present him more favorably, it might diminish the impact of those crucial scenes and change how audiences perceive the ending of the game.

Could it be possible that the concerns about my fears being unwarranted and the IX remake managing to steer clear of the issues faced by the VII Remake trilogy while preserving the enchantment of the original game are valid? That’s a possibility. However, just because a new, reimagined version of Final Fantasy IX has been created doesn’t mean the original no longer exists. But if this updated version is being marketed as the ultimate experience, yet it fails to retain what made the original so captivating, isn’t something precious being left behind?

It’s valuable to be able to revisit past games in their original forms, as companies preserving these classics and making them playable on current systems is commendable. For example, Square Enix has brought Final Fantasy IX to modern gaming platforms. However, when companies excessively remake classic titles for the sake of modernization, they risk tarnishing the title’s reputation—even if the core content remains untouched. When ideas and designs are simplified into a universal format and given the same name as a cherished classic, something is lost in the process. Final Fantasy IX stands out as a masterpiece due to its compelling storytelling, gameplay, and design, perhaps representing the pinnacle of the franchise. If it does get remade, I hope Square Enix keeps in mind what made it unique initially.

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2025-07-23 23:09