During the recent Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, there was a moment where I halted everything, leaned in closer, and cranked up the volume to the point where it almost hurt. This excitement was stirred by the fleeting thought that I was about to see Princess Garnet/Dagger from Final Fantasy 9 on screen.
However, that thrill was short-lived. Instead of Garnet, what graced the screen was the announcement for Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster, set to launch on the Switch 2 this summer. The character featured was Agnes, who bears some resemblance to Dagger: she has flowing brown hair, originates from a Square Enix title, and in the trailer shown below, she dons a vibrant dress reminiscent of several outfits worn by Dagger.
Clearly, I wasn’t alone in my reaction. Numerous viewers expressed similar sentiments, humorously noting how they were momentarily misled by the initial scenes of the trailer showcasing Agnes, with the Square Enix logo prominently displayed.
This apparent confusion is validated by a recent compilation video highlighting the reactions of others who were also caught off guard by the trailer. Fans of the beloved Final Fantasy series — widely considered the pinnacle of the franchise — or those who are aware of the long-speculated remake, appeared to have shared the same initial impression.
Nintendo Direct 2025 – NOT Final Fantasy 9 Remake Compilation | Streamers/Youtubers REACTIONS! Made a little reaction compilation of the Direct. April 4, 2025
For those who may not know, discussions around a potential Final Fantasy 9 remake originated from a Nvidia leak a few years back that also revealed accurate details about upcoming titles like Helldivers 2, PC ports for exclusives such as God of War, and surprising remakes and remasters like Actraiser and Destroy All Humans 2.
Since that time, speculation regarding a Final Fantasy 9 revival has been relentless. Noteworthy references to the classic title have appeared in Final Fantasy 14, which director Naoki Yoshida later revealed he hesitated to include, considering the strong connection fans have with the game.
In more recent developments, Square Enix has launched a 25th-anniversary website for Final Fantasy 9, gearing up for “various projects” to celebrate this landmark anniversary, making a remake appear increasingly plausible.
As Bravely Default’s Nintendo Switch 2 remaster approaches, its producer hopes to “continue this legacy into the future.”