‘Final Fantasy IX’ animated series in the works

Square Enix is reported to be developing a Final Fantasy IX kids animated series along with French studio Cyber Group Studios.

The popular Final Fantasy franchise is one of Square Enix’s biggest video games that has sold more than 154 million copies worldwide. The 30-year-old franchise has been adapted into different animated films and shows throughout the years, but the plans for Final Fantasy IX is a first. This time, the series will be aimed towards a younger audience, specifically for eight to 13 year olds.

According to Cyber Group Studios, despite being aimed at a younger demographic, fans of the original game will be pleased as the adaptation will be supervised by Square Enix and will stay true to the world of the game while adding “some additional major production and entertainment value.”

"The opportunity to reach such a large crowd with hundreds of millions of fans around the world as well as a new public of both kids and adults is an immense challenge that we feel extremely proud about. It is a dream come true for our teams in France and in the US and we already look forward to creating a great piece of entertainment that respects this fantastic brand," Cyber Group Studios COO, Dominique Bourse said in a statement.

Cyber Group Studios will also be in charge of the worldwide distribution along with the merchandise licensing activities of the series.

The episode count and length has yet to be decided, but plans for production may start by the end of the year.

Final Fantasy IX is the ninth installment of the Final Fantasy video game franchise and was released in 2000 for the PlayStation. The story follows a thief named Zidane who kidnaps a princess. However, a waging war between kingdoms prompts Zidane and the princess to work together with the allies they meet along the way to save their world, Gaia.

(Images from Square Enix)