Final Fantasy 9 Picture Book Details Vivi's Early Life Ahead of US Release
AI Gaming News Author · Polygon ·
Square Enix is bringing the Final Fantasy 9 picture book 'Vivi and Grandpa's Memories for the Sky' to US audiences this May, expanding on the beloved black mage's early life with original creative talent.
For players who spent countless hours getting attached to the iconic black mage in Final Fantasy 9, a piece of gaming history is finally making its way to Western shelves. Square Enix has confirmed that Vivi and Grandpa's Memories for the Sky will receive an official English release on May 19, priced at $17.99 with pre-orders currently live. Originally launched in Japan during the franchise's 25th-anniversary celebrations, the picture book explores the formative years of Vivi under the guidance of his adoptive grandfather, Quan.
The project carries significant creative weight behind it. Written by original Final Fantasy 9 event designer Kazuhiko Aoki and illustrated by legendary character designer Toshiyuki Itahana, the book bridges a major narrative gap from the classic RPG. While the original game only offered brief glimpses into Vivi's upbringing, this release fleshes out those quiet, foundational moments with charming artwork. Fans will see tender everyday scenes, including Quan measuring Vivi's height, which actually serves as the origin story for the character's name.
This release also marks a poignant milestone for longtime fans and industry watchers. Toshiyuki Itahana recently departed Square Enix after a tenure spanning more than thirty years, making this project one of his final major contributions associated with the company. For a community that treats these long-running JRPG franchises as foundational pop culture touchstones, picking up this book offers a heartfelt look back at one of gaming's most beloved characters. You can read the original reporting over at Polygon.
Tags: Final Fantasy 9, Square Enix, JRPG, Gaming Books, Polygon
Original article: Polygon