Square Enix has officially unveiled a prequel Final Fantasy IX picture book celebrating the series' 25th anniversary with a fresh story exploring Vivi’s origins. Read on to learn more about the anniversary event and exclusive merchandise.
Final Fantasy IX Celebrates 25th Anniversary
Picture Book Available on Amazon Japan and Rakuten for 1,320 yen
Final Fantasy IX, originally released on July 7, 2000, adds to its 25th anniversary celebration with a newly published picture book titled "Vivi and Grandpa On the Day of Departure. " Created by Event Designer Kazuhiko Aoki and Character Designer Toshiyuki Itahana, the 44-page RPG prequel explores the story of the Black Mage Vivi and his adoptive grandfather Quan, set before Vivi’s journey to the Kingdom of Alexandria.
This marks the second Final Fantasy-themed picture book from Aoki and Itahana. The duo previously collaborated on "Chocobo and the Airship," first released in Japan in 2021 and later worldwide in 2023. Vivi and Grandpa On the Day of Departure is available now, both as an e-book and physical copy, on Amazon Japan and Rakuten for 1,320 yen (approximately $9 USD at the time of writing).
Alongside the newly released picture book, Square Enix has launched an extensive selection of Final Fantasy IX-themed merchandise. While some items remain exclusive to Japan, fans can find plush toys, apparel such as Vivi’s Hat, and a vinyl album featuring both original and newly recorded tracks on Square Enix’s online store. These products are also available at the Square Enix pop-up store in Osaka, with a Tokyo location opening on July 25, 2025.
Limited-Edition Final Fantasy IX and Zoff Collaboration Eyewear
Speaking of exclusive merch, Square Enix has also unveiled a new limited-edition Final Fantasy IX eyewear collaboration with Japanese brand Zoff to celebrate the RPG’s 25th anniversary. The collection includes three unique frame designs, each bundled with exclusive glasses wipes and themed cases. As of now, the fittings are exclusive to the following Zoff stores in Japan:
⚫︎ Zoff Grand Tokyo Shibuya
⚫︎ Zoff Ikebukuro Sunshine City Alpa
⚫︎ Zoff Yaechika
⚫︎ Zoff Fukuoka Parco
⚫︎ Zoff Grand Front Osaka
The in-store fitting period is scheduled from July 7th through August 3rd. Online reservations for the collaboration event are scheduled to begin in early July. In addition to the eyewear, participating Zoff locations will release original capsule toys featuring collectible glasses wipes. Further details, including availability and store locations, will be announced soon via Zoff’s official website and social media channels.
Despite the growing hype around Final Fantasy IX’s 25th anniversary, there doesn’t appear to be any official discussion or announcement regarding a remaster or remake. Instead, Square Enix has been focused on releasing a wide range of new merchandise, offering longtime fans fresh ways to celebrate the beloved classic. However, with the official anniversary date fast approaching and the release of a newly arranged vinyl album featuring re-recorded tracks, some fans remain hopeful.
Sources:
The Official Square Enix Store
OFFICIAL 25th ANNIVERSARY FINAL FANTASY IX
Eyeglass brand "Zoff" × "FFIX " collaboration decision!
