Final Fantasy IX

 PlayStation
Metascore
94

Universal acclaim - based on 22 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 21 out of 22
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 22
  3. Negative: 0 out of 22
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  1. GMR Magazine
    100
    The crystals return to the series, along with a four-member party, blue magic, and black mages. [Feb 2003, p.97]
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  2. Daily Radar
    100
    If nothing else, Final Fantasy IX is a work of utterly sumptuous beauty, with gorgeous environments, jaw-dropping cut-scenes and detailed characters.
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  3. Games Radar
    100
    Pushing the humble PSone to its absolute limits, Square have done the impossible and actually improved on FFVIII's visuals.
  5. Hot Games
    100
    A triumph of style with a touch of whimsy, this Fantasy is the perfect finale to an era of PS RPG gaming.
  6. GamePro
    100
    It does, at times, go beyond expectations to give gamers a true masterpiece.
  7. Official U.S. Playstation Magazine
    100
    Our favorite PS one Final Fantasy. [Nov 2001, p.46]
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  8. Core Magazine
    100
    Gorgeous graphics, pleasant music, and an engaging (although somewhat cliché) story combine in a fitting conclusion to the PlayStation series of Final Fantasy titles.
  9. Gaming Age
    100
    It just does everything in the most solid way possible. An intriguing storyline, characters you actually care about, tried and true FF gameplay, a memorable soundtrack, beautiful, polished graphics, and not many crazy "systems" to learn and master.
  10. Gaming Maxx
    98
    Square went all out and put together a masterpiece that could only leave us all in anticipation of Final Fantasy X on the Sony Playstation 2.
  11. Antagonist
    97
    It's a cap to all the Final Fantasies and still a masterpiece alone. It's not perfect, but it's as good as traditional RPGs get.
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  12. Electronic Gaming Monthly
    97
    Yet another outstanding FF sequel, this time with a return to its roots. [Jan 2004, p.188]
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  13. Happy Puppy
    95
    But for the feel of nostalgia bolstered by the still-capable technology of the PlayStation, this game can make you feel actual delight--something that's tough to do in these cynical times.
  14. netjak
    95
    There are so many humorous moments in the game, but at the same time, many emotional moments as well. Throughout my journey, I connected with the characters, as they truly came alive for me. Few games were as engrossing as this, as it really captivated me with its fantastic story and entertaining twists.
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  15. IGN
    92
    Final Fantasy could go on forever re-creating its particular spin on the traditional heroic quest, and it would be a success every single time, but I can't help feeling as if something that features this kind of majestic visual craftsmanship ought to host a story built with equal care.
  16. CNET Gamecenter
    90
    Continues the series' long-standing tradition of quality in one of the most compelling RPGs ever. This is the last Final Fantasy game that will appear on the PlayStation, and SquareSoft has definitely saved its best for last.
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  17. Gamestyle
    90
    A masterpiece of an adventure game. For anyone not to fall in love with it would truly amaze me. Everything is set just right and you are drawn into the story right from the very offset.
  18. Spank!
    90
    The twists and turns of the plot are brought to life on screen in a way that leaves you itching to find out what's round the next corner.
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  19. Gamezilla!
    89
    With a storyline that drew me in more than most games I’ve played recently, graphics quality that I thought was impossible on my TV, and a cast of characters that amused and delighted, I’ve found a game that I love.
  20. Cincinnati Enquirer
    88
    One of the best games in the coveted series and one of the top RPGs of the year.
  21. GameSpot
    85
    As with Final Fantasy VII and VIII, the music arrangements are distinctly synthesized and sound 16-bit.
  22. Game Revolution
    83
    But big steps towards a deeper, more immersive experience haven't been made here. Even the most impassioned player must start asking for more out of the Final Fantasy institution.
  23. GameCritics
    70
    Doesn't offer very much that is new. The game is more than a little formulaic at times, using rehashed bits from other Final Fantasy games and not taking them any further.

Awards & Rankings

2
#2 Best PS1 Game of 2000
1
#1 Most Discussed PS1 Game of 2000
3
#3 Most Shared PS1 Game of 2000

User Reviews

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User Score
9.0

Universal acclaim- based on 1535 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,390 out of 1535
  2. Mixed: 75 out of 1535
  3. Negative: 70 out of 1535
  1. RaxsahW
    Jan 20, 2010
    10
    The most underrated Final Fantasy to have ever been made. I admit, the attention to character art during normal gameplay isn't the best The most underrated Final Fantasy to have ever been made. I admit, the attention to character art during normal gameplay isn't the best (better than FF7 though) but the backdrops and sceneries are stunning. The storyline is captivating, surprising you with unexpected plot twists that intertwine with each other flawlessly. Each character also has his/her own story which leads you to a deeper understanding of them and how they have come to be where they are during the game. A masterpiece that was unfortunately released too late as by this time, the PS2 had already been in the market for a good year or so I believe, which diverted everyone's attention from the game. To anyone thinking of trying the game out, I can almost guarantee you won't be disappointed… Full Review »
  2. Nekomancer
    Nov 21, 2011
    10
    Definitely my favourite Final Fantasy game and one of the best jrps ever created. A perfect example how FF should look like. Take a note SE,Definitely my favourite Final Fantasy game and one of the best jrps ever created. A perfect example how FF should look like. Take a note SE, you could make great games in past... Now look at yourselves...… Full Review »
  3. troubadorgilgam
    Aug 9, 2011
    10
    Music -

    The music in this installment is superior in every way. All tracks are creative and enthralling. Gameplay - 4 characters in    Music -

    The music in this installment is superior in every way. All tracks are creative and enthralling.

    Gameplay -

    4 characters in one party (8 characters total, with a couple temporaries, all unique, memorable and interesting), wonderful equipment and ability system, battles can be intense and super fun.

    Story -

    Epic. Doesn't get any better.    … Full Review »
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