Final Fantasy 9 is a game that captures everything great about classic RPGs and, undoubtedly, it’s one of the greatest RPGs ever made. It has everything that makes an RPG stand out, like classic fantasy storytelling, lovable characters, and a charming aesthetic that still holds up today. The game captures the most important elements of earlier Final Fantasy titles while making them feel new and timeless. That’s exactly why the idea of a Final Fantasy 9 remake makes me uneasy.

With so many remakes in recent years, it’s fair to ask: do we really need another one? Especially when the original is still readily available and widely acclaimed. There’s something to be said about preserving gaming history rather than constantly reworking it to fit modern trends. As much as I love Final Fantasy 9, I’d rather see new stories and fresh ideas instead of a reimagining that risks losing the original's magic.

FF9 Is Already a Nearly Perfect Game

Final Fantasy 9 Is One Of The Greatest RPGs

There’s a reason why Final Fantasy 9 remains a fan favorite over two decades after its release. Unlike some games that feel outdated, FF9 still holds up. The story is meaningful, the turn-based combat is polished, and the world of Gaia is one of the most charming in the Final Fantasy series.

One of the game’s greatest strengths is its characters. Zidane stands out as a charismatic lead, a nice change from the more serious protagonists in other Final Fantasy games. Garnet’s growth from a sheltered princess to a confident leader is compelling, and Vivi’s emotional journey is one of the most touching in the franchise. Each character feels important, and they all contribute to a well-paced story full of humor, drama, and adventure.

The game’s art direction is another reason it doesn’t need a remake. While it doesn’t feature today’s ultra-realistic visuals, its pre-rendered backgrounds and unique character designs create a timeless, fairy-tale-like look. The charm of Final Fantasy 9 comes from its whimsical, vibrant world, and that could be lost in a more realistic remake.

When it comes to gameplay, FF9 excels in traditional turn-based combat. It’s deep enough to be interesting but not too complicated, making battles enjoyable. The Active Time Event system lets players see side stories unfold in real-time. The game also has plenty of side quests, secrets, and mini-games, offering a complete experience without the need for extra DLC or updates.

The rumored FF9 remake might change these aspects in ways that take away from their charm. We’ve seen it before, where remakes update mechanics, voice acting, or even cut content to attract new players, sometimes losing what made the original great.

Remakes Of Classic Games Are Getting Out of Hand

Some Games Need Remakes, But Others Should Be Left Alone

There was a time when remakes were a special treat, bringing old games back to life when they were no longer easily playable. Nowadays, the gaming industry has been remaking classic titles at a constant rate. It’s starting to feel like nostalgia is being used to make money rather than to honor gaming history.

Some remakes, such as Final Fantasy 7 Remake, introduce fresh ideas and improve on the original story. However, others seem unnecessary. We’re seeing games that are just a decade old being revamped, even though they still hold up well in their original forms. A prime example is Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster. The changes made to suit a modern audience ruined the experience for me. The original game's charm came from its over-the-top violence and dark humor, but the remaster toned down so much of that, losing what made it unique.

The problem with some remakes is that they might replace the original versions in the eyes of newer players. If a remake of Final Fantasy 9 becomes the definitive version, future players might miss out on the magic of the original. Given the numerous changes made in Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Rebirth, there is a real concern that an FF9 remake could end up being something entirely different from what fans love.

I would rather see Square Enix move forward than recycle classics like FF9. I love FF9, and it’s definitely one of my top RPGs. It’s a true masterpiece, and I’d rather see new stories, characters, and worlds moving forward. Even a sequel to continue the story would be better than a remake.

FF9 Remake Feels Unnecessary at This Point

Final Fantasy 9 Is Widely Accessible, No Remake Needed

There’s something truly special about playing Final Fantasy 9 in its original form. The way the story unfolds, how the world feels alive, and the music that tugs at your heart all add to the magic that makes the game unforgettable. A remake, no matter how well done, could risk losing that special feeling.

One major concern about a Final Fantasy 9 remake is how much it might alter. Would the turn-based combat system remain, or would it become more action-focused? Would the characters and their dialogue stay true, or would they be modernized in ways that change their personalities? Would the game’s unique charm and art style work in full 3D? With so many unknowns and the frequent creative liberties taken in remakes, it’s hard to believe an FF9 remake would truly capture the original.

Another point to consider is accessibility. Final Fantasy 9 is available on practically every modern platform, including PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Switch, and mobile. Fans can play it easily without needing a remake. Since the original is so easy to get, a remake feels unnecessary.

Ultimately, Final Fantasy 9 is a product of its time in the best possible way. It captures a gaming era many people love, and remaking it could take away what makes it special. Instead of trying to recreate perfection, I would rather appreciate it for what it is: one of the greatest RPGs of all time.