A Final Fantasy 9 animated series is reportedly currently in the works. One of the most beloved entries in the long-running franchise is getting an animated series aimed at children 8- to 13-year-old.
Kidscreen reported yesterday that the series would be co-produced by Square Enix and French studio Cyber Group Studios. With Cyber Group Studios taking the lead on the project and also handling the distribution, licensing, and merchandise.
EXCLUSIVE: Getting into the game, @CyberGroupSDs is adapting @SquareEnix's #FinalFantasyIX game into an animated series https://t.co/FNAbLBHO2A pic.twitter.com/YrfTxhdZaj
— Kidscreen (@kidscreen) June 21, 2021
Cyber Group Studios is a leading producer and distributor of animated entertainment geared towards children and families.
Pierre Sissmann, CEO of Cyber Group Studios says, “We are honored and enthusiastic to participate with our friends of Square Enix in such a great adventure.”
“The company is putting the finishing touches on a project bible, and plans to begin pitching it to broadcasters in the coming months,” says Pierre Sissmann
Cyber Group Studios COO Dominique Bourse added, “It is a dream come true for our teams in France and in the U.S and we already look forward to creating a great piece of entertainment that respects this fantastic brand.”
Production of the series is expected to begin by the end of 2021 or the beginning of 2022. The episodes’ length and count have yet to be determined.
Final Fantasy 9 was originally released for the PlayStation in 2000. The story centered around Zidane and the Tantalus Theater Troupe who have to kidnap Princess Garnet, the heir of Alexandria.
However, to their surprise, Princess Garnet wants to escape the castle. The princess along with her personal guard, Steiner, travels the world with Zidane and an incredible cast of characters including Vivi, Quina, Amarant, Eiko, and Freya. Together they embark on an incredible journey to save the world.
The fan-favorite entry has more than 5 million copies sold worldwide. With the entire Final Fantasy franchise selling more than 154 million copies worldwide.
The kid-friendly nature and popularity of the franchise are what initially drew Cyber Group Studios to Final Fantasy. “That popularity, and a chance to expand the brand with new characters and adventures, is what attracted Cyber Group, says Sissmann.
“The games have a strong co-viewing potential. For those who do know Final Fantasy IX, this will be an [introduction],” he says. “And for the many who don’t, this will immerse them in a universe they’ll love.”
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