After a backlash of fans who were upset with the direction the Final Fantasy series was going with FFVIII, the creative geniuses at Square decided for their next project they would combine all of the most popular aspects of their previous games to create this: FFIX. The result is a great game, but probably not the most memorable FF.
The story of FFIX follows the adventures of a fun loving young man who ends up having to save the world from certain doom. What's his name? I'd tell you, but I actually have forgotten. The point is that the story and the characters of FFIX really aren't that interesting or memorable. Sure it kept me playing to the end, but compared to it's two predesecors, FFIX really lacks the depth and charm of FFVII and VIII.
Despite the only mediocre story line, FFIX plays rather well. The battle system uses the Active Time Guage, so it presents nothing new, but the characters in this game are more divided by job type, something that had not been happening in the other FF's. This makes things a but more strategic and challenging.
Graphically, FFIX is at the top of the PS1 pack, with wonderfully rendered backgrounds and detailed 3D models. The GC cinemas remain to die for. The music is pretty good. Once again, not as memorable as other FF soundtracks, but still good.
As for minigames, following FFVIII, a fully fleshed out card game is available for play. I find this game to be a bit funner than the one in FFVIII, and it is quite addictive.
All in all, FFIX stands out as the Final Fantasy game that stands out the least (confusing, no?). While it is a good game in every aspect, it's not likely to be any Final Fantasy fan's favorite. My rating: 87%
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