As Final Fantasy IX's Japanese release date quickly approaches, new information regarding the title is beginning to emerge more rapidly. Although the game's story is still shrouded in mystery, other highly anticipated details regarding FF9 have been released. What details are these, you might ask? New character information and pictures! Pictures and brief descriptions are as follows, but be aware that these names may be slightly altered during translation for the game's North American release:

• Eiko Callor - a highly intelligent six-year-old girl. Her wisdom surprises all who meet her.
  
• Freya Crescent - a female warrior with a dark past. She is very strong and is in touch with nature.
  
• Garnet Till Alexandros - a princess who leads a sheltered life. She is considered by most to be selfish.
  
• Quina Quen - a mysterious character whose only desire is to eat.
  
• Salamander Coral - a loner, he trusts no-one but himself. He has a "brawn over brains" mentality.
  

Eiko Callor

Freya Crescent

Quina Quen

Salamander Coral

Final Fantasy IX will hit Japan this July and is speculated for an October release here in North America. Final Fantasy IX could very well be the best Final Fantasy yet, so stay tuned to RPGamer for all the upcoming developments on this highly anticipated RPG from Square.