Vivi is probably the most beloved character in the history of Final Fantasy. This is very evident with the prominence he is currently having in Magic: The Gathering with its new Final Fantasy collection, with Vivi Ornitier being the most played card from the new collection. But that’s not all. Because Square Enix knows that the character is very popular and Final Fantasy IX is one of the most acclaimed installments.
Vivi Ornitier, the protagonist of Final Fantasy in 2025
That’s why Square Enix has announced a new prequel book based on the beloved character Vivi and his grandfather Quan, which explores their story along with beautiful illustrations and a recently revealed teaser trailer. The book promises to provide answers to some of the most intriguing questions about the characters from Final Fantasy IX.
The story reveals the origin of the name Vivi, explaining that it comes from the measurement corresponding to her height, which is six feet and six inches. In a funny twist, Quan measures Vivi from her feet to the tip of her characteristic pointed hat, resulting in the figure VI, VI, an unexpected connection that has led many fans to reconsider their interpretation of the character’s name. For more than two decades, followers of the story had assumed that the name Vivi had a more significant meaning, possibly related to the Latin word “viviente”.
All of this coincides with the recent release of the Final Fantasy collection of Magic: The Gathering, which recently had its Protour, won very appropriately by a Japanese player: Ken Yukuhiro. Although his favorite Final Fantasy is V, he had to face many Vivi Ornitier to rise to the prize. Winning, indeed, with a card that could not be more fitting for Final Fantasy V: Self-Destruct.
It also coincides with the fact that speculation about a possible remake of Final Fantasy IX remains alive. Fans are optimistic, especially in the context of the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the original game, an event that has fueled rumors about various projects in development. Although the remake of Final Fantasy IX has not yet been confirmed, the importance given to Vivi Ornitier by releasing a book telling his life or creating a particularly powerful card in Magic: The Gathering has sparked hope in the gaming community.
Additionally, the special website created to commemorate the anniversary has hinted that “several projects” might be in the works, adding to the renewed interest in the saga brought by the Magic: The Gathering collection, which has led many to speculate about the future of that hypothetical remake. Meanwhile, the prequel book and the various Vivi cards from the Final Fantasy collection are an excellent complement while fans eagerly await official news about it. Especially now, as Vivi Ornitier is one of the most played cards in Magic.
