Final Fantasy IV has been re-released numerous times for almost every single platform that comes to mind (the first mobile version of the game actually came out for iOS late last year).

As the first game and RPG around then to feature a complex plot and debut many new gameplay systems, it was considered a ground-breaking effort at the time. The affecting score by Nobuo Uematsu was also critically acclaimed.

A sequel has already been created, namely Final Fantasy IV: The After Years, which released for Japanese phones, the Wii and PSP.

Square Enix  announced today that Final Fantasy IV is now available for the PSP system at North American retailers. The 20^th Anniversary Edition includes a graphically enhanced version of the timeless classic FF IV, the complete episodic series ‘The After Years’, and an entirely new Interlude, which connects the stories between the previous two entries in the franchise.

Critically acclaimed as one of the greatest games of all time with more than 4 million copies sold worldwide, FINAL FANTASY IV set the standard for role-playing games to come with its diverse cast of complex characters, a deep and engrossing plot, the introduction of the Active Time Battle system and numerous additional innovations. Twenty years later, FINAL FANTASY IV, its acclaimed sequel THE AFTER YEARS and the entirely new INTERLUDE have come together in one package as the ultimate role-playing game experience with FINAL FANTASY IV: THE COMPLETE COLLECTION. Whether re-experiencing a favorite or just discovering the game for the first time, new and old players alike will join in as a cast of unforgettable characters are drawn into one of the most beloved FINAL FANTASY stories, with stunning new graphics, a newly arranged award-winning soundtrack and bonus game features that provide the definitive FINAL FANTASY IV experience.

A PSP remake of Final Fantasy IV bundled with the Wii-Ware exclusive Final Fantasy: The After Years is scheduled for April. However, what has mostly been piquing the interest of Final Fantasy fans is the ‘Interlude’ segement inlcluded in the package which serves as a link between the two aforementioned games. Sceptical punters can rest assured that the segment should last fifteen hours, longer than an average episode of ‘The After Years’.

Thanks to Siliconera for the info.

Square Enix announced today that Final Fantasy IV Complete Collection will be available for the PSP system on April 19, 2011.

FEATURES
• Complete package of one of the greatest RPGs of all time: First packaged release of THE AFTER YEARS
• An epic tale spanning nations, worlds and generations: Brand-new stories to further expand the revolutionary story line of FINAL FANTASY IV
• All-new cast of friends, family and foes: Fall in love with Cecil, Rosa, Kain, Rydia and Edge again while getting to know Ceodore and a whole new cast of characters
• Vibrant visuals and unforgettable melodies: Includes all-new 2-D graphics designed for the PSP® system’s 16:9 format. Also includes a new arrangement of one of the most acclaimed video game soundtracks of all time!

“In honor of the 20th Anniversary since the initial launch, we are releasing FINAL FANTASY IV: THE COMPLETE COLLECTION this April, 2011. We hope fans will enjoy and celebrate not only the original and complete game experience but the addition of new and never-before-seen levels,” said Ami Blaire, vice president of marketing, Square Enix.