Final Fantasy IX

 PlayStation
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
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  1. Mark
    Dec 6, 2002
    8
    It's an alright game with good graphics and some alright characters but still not as good as final fantasy 8.
  2. StephanieR
    Apr 22, 2008
    10
    For all Final Fantasies, this has GOT to be the best RPG for me. It goes back to all the old tradition of Final Fantasy. This game has the best character developtment and you can completely feel being in the character's shoes. Final Fantasy X was a dissapointment. Good graphics, bad storyline. Stopped Final Fantasy VIII at Disc 2. Final Fantasy VII was also good! :) What separates For all Final Fantasies, this has GOT to be the best RPG for me. It goes back to all the old tradition of Final Fantasy. This game has the best character developtment and you can completely feel being in the character's shoes. Final Fantasy X was a dissapointment. Good graphics, bad storyline. Stopped Final Fantasy VIII at Disc 2. Final Fantasy VII was also good! :) What separates this from ANY OTHER Final Fantasies is it's magical atmosphere, you can completely feel the fantasy world, and be in the shoes of a thief (who is light hearted and funny, which in my opinion makes a good hero) saving the princess in a world full of mysteries.… Expand
  3. Lev
    Aug 26, 2008
    8
    Favourite FF out of the PSX FF titles, not counting Tactics. The whole game reminds me of the kind of adventure stories I liked (and still like!) as a kid. It has one of the best worlds that appear in a Final Fantasy, and the characters are really different so anyone can choose his/her favourite out of them. Battle system is simple and effective. Random encounters could get annoying after Favourite FF out of the PSX FF titles, not counting Tactics. The whole game reminds me of the kind of adventure stories I liked (and still like!) as a kid. It has one of the best worlds that appear in a Final Fantasy, and the characters are really different so anyone can choose his/her favourite out of them. Battle system is simple and effective. Random encounters could get annoying after a while but I think it works best in this game out of all the FFs.… Expand
  4. BobbyL
    Jun 21, 2009
    10
    This game is a divider- people either love it or hate it. I love it as do most of the people who I've talked to who have played all of the core FF games. It's got a lot to offer as far as sidequests and such, the combat isn't innovative at all but is very solid, and more importantly than anything else the story and characters are fantastic.
  5. LeeH.H.
    Jan 31, 2002
    9
    The Good: Breathtaking visuals and beautiful music. The story is enjoyable as well, but some may find it dull, since it builds up rather sluggishly. The Bad: Gameplay can get quite repetitive sometimes, especially if you're stuck in a dungeon. Overall, I'd say that this game is very good, but no where near VI, VII or X.
  6. Mcdudette
    Feb 27, 2002
    10
    This game is just awesome.
  7. SarahM>
    Feb 27, 2002
    10
    One of the best games ever made. :-)
  8. ChristopherP.
    Nov 22, 2003
    8
    While it still arguably suffers from too frequent random battles and periods of mediocrity, its long, exciting overall story and simplified battle and skill system contribute to keeping you playing through the whole thing pleasantly. and final fantasy is about playing through pleasantly, right?
  9. DragonKnightofFinalFantasy
    Feb 15, 2004
    10
    Kings thieves and kingdoms stuff like that was what FF7 and 8 were missing which makes a pretty big difference in my book it has a good battle system great story my only problem is Zidane (main character) and Kuja (main evil dude) look like girls.Buy it NOW.
  10. JadeL.
    Apr 17, 2004
    10
    This game is well put together and whimsically engrossing.It absorbs you in the plot and makes you yearn for more.The characters seem real as do their problems.This game and all others,I'm sure,will have the same captivating effects and storylines which will make all of us gamers be swept away with every little twist and turn.
  11. JohnM.
    Nov 8, 2005
    10
    It's a sweet game, loads of fun, loads of things to do.
  12. HannahL.
    Oct 31, 2005
    10
    FANTASTIC!!!! i beat dis game like 10 thousand times!!!! its so addicting, and i love the gameplay AND STory. you can NEVER get bored of it. other ff games bore me out, and i can never finish it!!! though it is pretty old, i still play it. even today.
  13. JohnH.
    Jan 23, 2006
    10
    If you love the others, more than likely you
  14. Brian
    Aug 16, 2006
    10
    Simply a great blend of everything. The story is outstanding, graphics can be easily compared to Playstation 2 graphics. Sound is pretty good also. Great game, make sure to read the dialog to fall in love with the characters.
  15. Mithyus
    Mar 25, 2007
    10
    This ninth addition sums up everything the brilliant Final Fantasy franchise has to offer: An engaging story with charismatic characters, beautiful graphics, and efficient gameplay & presentation.
  16. anonymous
    Apr 15, 2009
    10
    The best game I've ever played includes in my opninion best soundtrack and the most reliable characters of all FF games. Maybe because of that I've been trough eight times... still working on the perfect ninth.
  17. KyleH
    Jun 21, 2009
    10
    My favorite Final Fantasy ever. And in my personal opinion, the best one, hands down. This time around they took on a totally midieval feel and it just works. I've never been a huge fan of the gunplay in the series, so going back to pure blades and magic is awesome. The story is amazing. It blows final FF7 out of the water. Sephiroth is the baddest villian, but overall the story is My favorite Final Fantasy ever. And in my personal opinion, the best one, hands down. This time around they took on a totally midieval feel and it just works. I've never been a huge fan of the gunplay in the series, so going back to pure blades and magic is awesome. The story is amazing. It blows final FF7 out of the water. Sephiroth is the baddest villian, but overall the story is just more cohesive and emotional in 9. The sidequests can keep you entertained for hours and hours, and the skills system is really user firiendly. The graphics are superior to all those that came before it, and the active time battle system works well in the game. A must play for any RPG fan.… Expand
  18. Tubie
    Jan 19, 2011
    9
    A fall back to a more traditional fantasy setting. Final Fantasy IX is pure fun and never really takes itself too seriously but still manages to maintain a compelling plot. Not my favorite FF game of the PSX era but it's still among the top 10 RPGs of all time.
  19. RomanFTW
    Mar 31, 2011
    10
    This is my favorite game period. Best music, best gameplay of the ff series, best graphics of its time, best ability set-up system, best and most well developed characters. With more than 100+(iv'e clocked alot more) hours of gameplay this game is not short on time obviously, and every second of it was full of the best ff story plot, awesome minigames, and lots and lots of chocobo treasureThis is my favorite game period. Best music, best gameplay of the ff series, best graphics of its time, best ability set-up system, best and most well developed characters. With more than 100+(iv'e clocked alot more) hours of gameplay this game is not short on time obviously, and every second of it was full of the best ff story plot, awesome minigames, and lots and lots of chocobo treasure hunting. The amount of effort put into this game is beyond real, and if every game creator took a cue from the bar that ff9 sets, the videogame community would be a much better place. This game is a perfect 10/10… Expand
  20. drlowdon
    May 30, 2020
    8
    The ninth mainline entry in the JPRG series centres on war between nations in a fantasy world called Gaia. When a bandit known as Zidane Tribal kidnaps an Alexandrian princess he finds himself on a quest to take down her mother, Queen Brahne of Alexandria, who started the war.

    The plot and characters aren’t as memorable as previous instalments, but with it’s complex turn based combat    The ninth mainline entry in the JPRG series centres on war between nations in a fantasy world called Gaia. When a bandit known as Zidane Tribal kidnaps an Alexandrian princess he finds himself on a quest to take down her mother, Queen Brahne of Alexandria, who started the war.

    The plot and characters aren’t as memorable as previous instalments, but with it’s complex turn based combat and huge world to explore, this remains a thoroughly enjoyable RPG even to this day. If you were a fan of the series to this point, Final Fantasy IX won’t disappoint.    … Expand
  21. Caestus
    Jul 31, 2013
    8
    It has a great world and OST and the graphics are among the best in the PSX era. But the battle system is, even with the highest speed, just slow. The ability system is, after FF VII and FF VIII, a disappointment, you dont have a big election in developing your characters. The story, especially Zidanes origin, is to predictable which makes it often fail to surprise you. Its a good gameIt has a great world and OST and the graphics are among the best in the PSX era. But the battle system is, even with the highest speed, just slow. The ability system is, after FF VII and FF VIII, a disappointment, you dont have a big election in developing your characters. The story, especially Zidanes origin, is to predictable which makes it often fail to surprise you. Its a good game but weaker compared to its two PSX prequels FF VII and FF VIII.… Expand
  22. HARVEYtheDAMNED
    Oct 25, 2011
    9
    Great story, great gameplay, and an incredible experience. This is one of those games I can play over and over again. The graphics haven't held up well over the years, but the art style is still unique and pleasing to the eyes. A classic to be sure.
  23. Melopahn
    Feb 18, 2021
    10
    Truly takes you on a journey, the music, the characters, the story, truly a timeless masterpiece.
  24. rpgczar
    Dec 2, 2015
    10
    This is one of the best ff games ever created and still is better than Final fantasy 13 and on. I won't say it is better than ff 15 as that isn't out yet. Like the back of the box says it mixes the best of the old with the new. When you play this game you will hear music from past final fantasy's and references to past characters in the series. It has a nice love story, a wonderful ending,This is one of the best ff games ever created and still is better than Final fantasy 13 and on. I won't say it is better than ff 15 as that isn't out yet. Like the back of the box says it mixes the best of the old with the new. When you play this game you will hear music from past final fantasy's and references to past characters in the series. It has a nice love story, a wonderful ending, and some of the best graphics for a ps1 rpg. Infact I think only chrono cross may have better graphics. The battle system is just like ff 4-8 with the atb system which flows a little slower in this game. I believe the reason for this is it was squares first time having four characters in a 3d ff. ff 7 and 8 only had three at a time. The materia and junction systems from ff 7 and 8 are replaces by an ability system. This system allows you to equip a limited number of battle skills like auto haste, auto potion, and skills that make you immune to abnormal statuses. The limit skill is replaced by something called trance. As enemies deal damage to you a bar slowly fills up. When it is completely filled up your character automatically transforms into something that is similiar to terra's form in ff6. When in this form characters get immunity to most abnormal statuses. Some get added abilities and others simply deal more damage. When trance runs out characters revert back to normal form. Unlike ff8 and 7 not every character can summon. There are only two characters that can summon and this game has most of the classic summons like shiva, Ifrit, and bahamut. There are eight characters and each has a different skill set. There is a thief, a knight, a dragoon, a black mage, a summoner white mage fusion, a blue mage, and a guy that is a cross between a ninja and a berserker with his throwing abilities. Each of the character's are nicely developed and that is what makes this one of the best rpgs. Not only that but the game actually has towns sorry ff 13 and mini games sorry boring hunts in ff 13. There is a card game, chocobo hot and cold, jump rope, a racing mini game, and many more. There are optional bosses and even an item that allows you to see an added scene at the end. There is also a flyable airship and you level up like classic rpgs via random encounters. The antagonist is also nicely done. This game is filled with charm and has some nice cgi.… Expand
  25. bestbloodyday
    May 22, 2012
    8
    Another good Final Fantasy IX. Isn't as good as VII or VIII, but still is a very good fun. The main issue with this game is the art style (very ugly compared to the previous games), the low difficulty and the annoying chocobo digging system. On the other side, there are lots of secrets in the game, charming towns, loads of equipment and skills, lots of characters. Also, this gamesAnother good Final Fantasy IX. Isn't as good as VII or VIII, but still is a very good fun. The main issue with this game is the art style (very ugly compared to the previous games), the low difficulty and the annoying chocobo digging system. On the other side, there are lots of secrets in the game, charming towns, loads of equipment and skills, lots of characters. Also, this games retrieves the 4 character battle system. Absolutely "must play" game.… Expand
  26. Subterra
    Jul 4, 2013
    10
    The best game ever made after starcraft 2 this game to this day still effects me like no other game can, i have been searching for a game to equal this and after so many years still cant find anything.... this game is a real gem one in a million i just wish there where more games made like this one
  27. iKen
    Apr 13, 2020
    9
    Played on PlayStation.
    Gameplay: GREAT.
    Story: GREAT.
    Graphic: GREAT.
    Music/Sound: GREAT.
    Dialogue: GREAT.
  28. khvivi
    Dec 26, 2013
    10
    Easily my personal favourite of the FF games, and one of my favourite games of all time.
    Everything about it from the story development to the soundtrack is just perfect.
  29. Wyze
    Mar 16, 2013
    10
    Last masterpiece of Square...
  30. sephiroth2118
    Apr 25, 2013
    10
    So i know this game gets overlooked often. since it came out right before the ps2 but in my opinion it was the last great final fantasy jrp mix that a lot of the loyal fans miss... so take my opinion or not but as a long tie fan of the series i highly recommend this title and its on the PlayStation network for cheap no more hunting ebay and paying shipping and handling lol
  31. Lukassek
    Apr 1, 2013
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The best game ever made! The original plot, sophisticated characters, awesome graphic and beautiful music...just excellent! I love Final Fantasy and number IX is best!… Expand
  32. unluckydice
    Jan 20, 2014
    9
    Be prepared to travel through airships cast fire and aeons at your foes, experience the wondrous landscapes and city's through a whooping 4 discs, with a magical story with wonders and the added gem of classic final fantasy gameplay which we all grew accustomed to in FF7
  33. TacticalRanger
    Sep 20, 2013
    10
    In one of the greatest game in the series. i started this game not expecting it to be very good. However it surprised me and made me view the series with a new standard. The character were all very good. After having two annoying emo protagonists the FF series gave us a protagonist that I actually liked for the first time (Nothing against Terra). Vivi is also a great character not justIn one of the greatest game in the series. i started this game not expecting it to be very good. However it surprised me and made me view the series with a new standard. The character were all very good. After having two annoying emo protagonists the FF series gave us a protagonist that I actually liked for the first time (Nothing against Terra). Vivi is also a great character not just because he is insanely cute. The game deals with a theme of death and accepting that you will die. It's not as cutesy as people think and I think people should not compare it to FF7 and FF8 because it's not one of the sci-fi, military, fantasy mix-ups the others were. The beginning might seem ripped from a storybook but it does by no means stay that way. The combat is also very good getting rid of Materia and Guardent Forces for one more class based.… Expand
  34. bulletchan
    Apr 11, 2016
    10
    After VII completely changed nearly everything for future Final Fantasy series, Square puts the last nail in the coffin for the old school Final Fantasy games with IX. IX is the last Final Fantasy game that represents the old school Final Fantasy games. Even though it still has the features that VII introduced and pounded in the rest of the series, it was a throwback to the old school waysAfter VII completely changed nearly everything for future Final Fantasy series, Square puts the last nail in the coffin for the old school Final Fantasy games with IX. IX is the last Final Fantasy game that represents the old school Final Fantasy games. Even though it still has the features that VII introduced and pounded in the rest of the series, it was a throwback to the old school ways and I couldn't have it any other way. Next to VI and VII, IX is one of my favourite Final Fantasy games ever. The story is compelling and easy to follow, the soundtrack, though wasn't as epic as VII's, was charming and nostalgic, the gameplay and combat was simple but deep and the characters are fun and likable.… Expand
  35. lylek1
    Nov 13, 2013
    10
    This is by far the greatest Final Fantasy I have ever played. The storyline, graphics, music, scenary, playability is absolutely excellent. Even in this day and age Final Fantasy 9 is a must play for all RPG gamers. I was really drawn in to the storyline, best out of the series!
  36. MarcinOS
    Nov 25, 2020
    10
    This game is a gem. It's my favorite game of all times. I love everything in this game. Absolutely wonderful story, great characters (Vivi!), amazing soundtrack, the battle system is so good as well...
  37. iYiaz
    Nov 11, 2020
    10
    A perfect masterpiece. There is no other way I could describe what this game is.
  38. jiffypop333
    Mar 12, 2014
    10
    I must start by saying that this is my favorite final fantasy. Not for the characters, because they are great but mainly due to the story. The party system is great where you can have 4 characters out at once. I love the involvement you get while also playing the game. The branching story lines is awesome as well. It is interesting if you didn't know ff 9 has the best score overall of anyI must start by saying that this is my favorite final fantasy. Not for the characters, because they are great but mainly due to the story. The party system is great where you can have 4 characters out at once. I love the involvement you get while also playing the game. The branching story lines is awesome as well. It is interesting if you didn't know ff 9 has the best score overall of any other but is underrated and did not do as well as 7 or 10 in sales. Besides all that I love this game for the game play, graphics, story, and all the intertwining of characters that had enough plot twist to keep you wanting more. I recommend this to any fan of ff9 or any person looking for a great story with a slight game play twist.… Expand
  39. Kai82
    Nov 14, 2020
    10
    A somehow unrecognized but excellent entry in the Final Fantasy franchise. Maybe it was because the game came relatively late in the lifetime of the original PlayStation and attention was focused on the PlayStation 2. For itself it was a back to the roots entry. More fantasy and less steampunk. The story is set in the world Gaia and starts with our protagonist Zidane a member of a band ofA somehow unrecognized but excellent entry in the Final Fantasy franchise. Maybe it was because the game came relatively late in the lifetime of the original PlayStation and attention was focused on the PlayStation 2. For itself it was a back to the roots entry. More fantasy and less steampunk. The story is set in the world Gaia and starts with our protagonist Zidane a member of a band of thieves called Tantalus on a mission to capture the princess of Alexandria. Sounds like a fantasy cliche but they cleverly subvert the trope as the princess wants to escape from Alexandria as well and this is just the beginning of an interesting story. There are a lot of twist and some hit hard at the characters and players. It was entertaining, immersive and had lots of humor. It handles themes like individuality, souls or what does it mean to be alive instead of just existing, corruption by power and plots I cant spoil. It delivers from start to finish. The characters are unique and have their own personality and backstory. I especially liked Vivi, Freya, Zorn and Torn and others I cant spoil. The villains are superb and have clear believable motivations. Also the playable characters are in a fixed role / job. The main character is a thief and has a set of related skills. Other are white mage (healer), black mage (elemental damage) or knights etc. This works well for me and makes sense but can be seen as restrictive by others. Abilities can be learned through equipping items and earn enough experience. If you learned it completely you can use the skill without the item. Of cause there are abilities that only a certain character can learn. Only the white mage can heal with spells or the black mage can use elemental magic. There are two types of abilities. Direct abilities for each character to use and supporting abilities. For the later you have a (level increasing) pool of points to spend and must chose or adapt according to situations. The battle system works well and I like to experiment with different party combinations. There is a new mechanic in the game called Active Time Events (ATE). Here you can chose to view events in other locations (Other characters, special events etc.) While I am at it I will give you some tips: Keep one of the weakest available weapons for each character. You read this correct: Weakest and each character. The haste ability is the best support ability in the game and should always be used. It is an advantage to have more turns than your enemies (Except when confused or charmed). Some ATEs have benefits and you should read a missable stuff / events FAQ. Let at least one female and male frog alive in each lake. End of tips. There is a card game inside this called Tetra Master. While I enjoyed it it was also forgotten and rediscovered by me that it existed. There are other mini games and side activities for you to play. The graphic and soundtrack are amazing. Look how much the graphic has improved since Final Fantasy 7. It has the best soundtrack of all Final Fantasy games for me (tied with Final Fantasy Tactics). “You are not alone” (used to full potential in a great scene), “The dark messenger”, This place I’ll return someday” and “Festival of Hunt” to name a few are excellent. There are some minor flaws as no perfect game exists. There is a certain battle after some events that is unnecessary and a failure in story telling (I am vague because of spoilers). It was a complaint by many. Other stuff is just to small to mention. Overall this is a highlight in the franchise and nearly unrecognized by Final Fantasy standards. I would recommend it not only to Final Fantasy fans as it is a great experience.… Expand
  40. NoonebutMark
    Nov 3, 2014
    10
    Even when playing at 2014, this game still holds. I'm warning you... Once you play the game, you'll enjoy the experience.

    Inside is a lovely world with well developed characters, soothing background music, amazing FMVs!, nice gameplay and many more. As I said more, last year, a side quest was found! With something like that found from 2000 video game, you'll never know what you're    Even when playing at 2014, this game still holds. I'm warning you... Once you play the game, you'll enjoy the experience.

    Inside is a lovely world with well developed characters, soothing background music, amazing FMVs!, nice gameplay and many more.

    As I said more, last year, a side quest was found! With something like that found from 2000 video game, you'll never know what you're encountering is a something none of us has seen yet. There's bunch of secrets within this game that it is worth replaying.

    The characters are interesting and each one of them is based on job/class. Fun if you played prior final fantasy games before this but even if didn't, this game just gives you cast that will forever engraved to your heart.    … Expand
  41. lolorik
    Sep 24, 2014
    10
    I played many RPGs in my life and I can surely say that never in the history of mankind they will make a fantasy game so majestic as this. Miss the time when Final Fantasy was a clever and captivating series.
  42. dashantaozi
    Aug 25, 2018
    9
    Boss design in this game is on another level. If only the game gave me more freedom to prepare for them.
  43. Wahfuu
    Oct 19, 2014
    9
    An absolute beautiful tale of loss and laughing despite of it. An underrated gem in the giant name that is final fantasy, and I don't think the series has ever or will ever top itself with it. Deserves alot more love than it gets for its characters that brim with personality with every line, it's world that shines with life at every town, and story with a central theme about findingAn absolute beautiful tale of loss and laughing despite of it. An underrated gem in the giant name that is final fantasy, and I don't think the series has ever or will ever top itself with it. Deserves alot more love than it gets for its characters that brim with personality with every line, it's world that shines with life at every town, and story with a central theme about finding yourself in a world filled with loss.… Expand
  44. todesmilch
    Oct 24, 2015
    10
    I am biased. I was 14 when this game came out. I am now 29 and it is still one of my most favorite games. In the FF series it is my favorite for sure. Such a rich game.
  45. raymond_frst
    Feb 25, 2015
    10
    This game is truly great. A lot of heart goes into the details of this game. backdrop, 3D sprites, game mechanics, story-line, sound and music. the feel is just fits the name, an adventure in a fantasy world. the player will actually feel a satisfaction of adventure after playing this game. Stunning, and worth replay over and over again.
  46. LaiusBunansa
    Jul 11, 2015
    10
    Just want to express my love to this game. I honestly liked this better than the 7th. The limelight just didn't caught this game that much because of PS2. Underrated yet best.
  47. TheLemMeister
    Nov 5, 2015
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Final Fantasy. To each of us, these words hold a special and unique meaning, and these two simple words are the key to precious memories stored away in the hearts of every gamer.

    I still remember when I first played Final Fantasy IX. I was a fairly young child in those days, and my friend had a Labrador - a huge playful thing. Jake was the name of this canine, and for a long time I much preferred his company to that of my fellow man. Many happy hours we spent together, skipping gaily (in a heterosexual way) over the meadows. One night, I arrived at my friend's house alarmed to find Jake missing.

    Final Fantasy IX puts an interesting spin on Final Fantasy's famous battle system. More on that in my upcoming review of Final Fantasy X, in which I spend 2,000 words comparing it unfavourably to Final Fantasy IX.

    FFIX boasts a large cast of interesting characters. Freya will appeal to young children and anyone who likes anthropomorphic rat people. Zidane will appeal to young children and anyone who likes monkey people. Vivi will appeal to young children and anyone who likes young children.

    Overall, despite it's flaws, FFIX is a jRPG classic and fully deserving of my final rating of 8.5/10.    … Expand
  48. TheDudeFromIce
    Nov 29, 2015
    10
    I play this game almost yearly and I just never seem to get tired of it. Love the battle system, love the story and characters, love the world that's created and well...... I just love the game!

    This was my first RPG experience and made me fall in love with that genre.
  49. EpicLadySponge
    Apr 24, 2016
    10
    Final Fantasy VII will always remain the best, but I think saving the best for last would go up for Final Fantasy IX, which is more unique than Final Fantasy VII.
  50. conorsullivan50
    Dec 21, 2018
    10
    The greatest Final Fantasy game. To even rate this lower than an 8 is to cede any claim to intelligence and to relinquish all credibility of opinion. 100%. 10/10, would play and have played again.
  51. brothers54321
    May 24, 2016
    10
    Final Fantasy IX is the product of a company with infinite passion for its franchise and fans doing more than their best to make a game that doesn't just capture the essence of its predecessors, but improves on its formula in so many ways that it becomes legendary. While I wont deny a lot of my feelings for this game are very nostalgic in nature, I played through the game and beat it notFinal Fantasy IX is the product of a company with infinite passion for its franchise and fans doing more than their best to make a game that doesn't just capture the essence of its predecessors, but improves on its formula in so many ways that it becomes legendary. While I wont deny a lot of my feelings for this game are very nostalgic in nature, I played through the game and beat it not but a year ago and remain firm in my belief that this game is the best in its franchise and my personal favorite game ever made regardless of that nostalgia.
    To begin, this game has the perfect Final Fantasy plot line. Where I do like deep complex storylines, many of the Final Fantasy games are so complex that I miss key details that require a second play through to fully understand. However the story wouldn't be satisfying if it didn't weave together twists and turns you don't actually see coming. Final Fantasy IX has the definitive story for me in the Final Fantasy franchise. While FFVI makes an excellent case for its story, FFIX's is simply so perfectly complicated yet easy to understand once it's said and done in my strong opinion. Without spoiling anything, the characters you meet and the moments you have with these characters almost all reduced me to tears, as each character tells a story of some kind of human flaw we have all felt or witnessed. The slideshow in the beginning of the game that plays when you are idle on the main menu will reveal a lot with maybe 10 words about the character's core values and struggles they face internally, and it's my opinion that each character almost perfectly demonstrates these flaws and overcomes them or confronts them in such a way that you will be left in tears at some of the struggles this cast of characters overcomes. But this game isn't all doom and gloom either. The comedic interactions and awkward moments between the characters feel so beautifully unforced and spot on to how you would expect the character to react based on their personality. Seeing the polarity of some of the character's motives and how this affects other characters can be both heartwarming and bittersweet at times, really helping you identify and relate to the character's even further.
    But that is just the character development. This game has so much more. There is one sequence where the main protagonist is faced with a horrifying revelation that really pained me. Seeing how he reacted and how the other characters tried to do right by their friend was the most emotionally painful scene in a video game for me. I've never cried and pleaded more to a television screen in my life than in that moment and it sticks with me to this day. All while some of the most beautiful music in gaming plays. Which is another great point. This game has one of the best soundtracks in a video game, perfectly expressing the emotion you should feel at every moment through each dungeon and town. It's one of the things that really ties in all this game's strengths together and makes it truly a masterpiece RPG.
    And of course the combat. In typical SquareSoft fashion, they outdid themselves. No other developer of the time could find more ways to revolutionize turn based combat than SquareSoft. This game brings back an importance to equipment and accessories that had been dying from the series' previous two entities. Where the previous two games focused more on customizing each character to be whatever role you wanted them to be, this game returns to form with each character filling a certain class with a mix of strengths and weaknesses. The main protagonist is the thief class, inherently able to steal with strong fighting stats as well. However he isn't a Mage and there is no way to make him a Mage. If you want a Mage, you have to use a character who is a Mage, rather than say equipping a ton of materia from FFVII on whatever character and making him a Mage. This brings an importance and strategy back to which characters you choose for a certain engagement that had been pointless with the previous 2 entires. Each character learns new skills in their class based on the weapons and armor they have equipped and slowly learn those skills the longer the armor is equipped. Once the ability is learned, you no longer need to wear that armor to use that skill. It's very intuitive and satisfying to turn-based combat fans and only adds to the master-crafted story this game offers.
    To finish, FFIX is one of the best RPGs ever made with a story and characters you aren't likely to forget. With about 30 hours of story and 10 hours of relatively plain optional content, any fan of RPGs and especially JRPGs would be a fool to have not played this game. If you want a game with strategic turn based content and a phenomenal story, you won't find much better than Final Fantasy IX    … Expand
  52. villaverd
    May 31, 2016
    10
    Perfecto. No lo podría definir mejor en una sola palabra, una historia que parece un poco infantil al principio pero una vez va cobrando forma es impresionante y de las más filosóficas de la saga final fantasy y de los juegos en general. unos personajes....de lo mejor de lo mejor, desbordan carisma todos, tanto principales como secundarios como villanos. La jugabilidad nada mal para laPerfecto. No lo podría definir mejor en una sola palabra, una historia que parece un poco infantil al principio pero una vez va cobrando forma es impresionante y de las más filosóficas de la saga final fantasy y de los juegos en general. unos personajes....de lo mejor de lo mejor, desbordan carisma todos, tanto principales como secundarios como villanos. La jugabilidad nada mal para la epoca y de mis preferidas de la sagas, horas y horas de diversion. Entre las veces que lo he rejugado le habre echado mas de mil horas facilmente. De los mejores juegos de la historia y mi preferido.… Expand
  53. Sha2n
    May 9, 2023
    10
    A unique work, one of the best to date. This game will definitely enter the top, created by a diverse, experienced, versatile and not envious gamer. A legend for a real dreamer. From Gabranth with Love.
  54. GamecubeLover
    Aug 3, 2016
    10
    This game...this game is amazing. just amazing visuals and gameplay as well as replay value! This game has it all and what you expect from a Final Fantasy game.
  55. peropify
    Mar 15, 2017
    10
    Best FF game to date. Story wise, content wise, this game get just about everything right. From its charming characters, to the refreshingly humorous dialogue, if you are a lover of JRPG's, this is an amazing game to play. If there was one gripe I had about this game it would be maybe the battle system, which was highly luck based at times, but this was due to the era of games back then.Best FF game to date. Story wise, content wise, this game get just about everything right. From its charming characters, to the refreshingly humorous dialogue, if you are a lover of JRPG's, this is an amazing game to play. If there was one gripe I had about this game it would be maybe the battle system, which was highly luck based at times, but this was due to the era of games back then. Unfortunately, the graphics are dated now, even with the latest HD character models. They need to remake this game instead.… Expand
  56. zens3
    Jul 25, 2016
    10
    This game is true to the "Fantasy" in its name. Having played most of the games in the final fantasy series (before XI), I still say this is my favorite because of its ability to give you that sense of everlasting and calm adventure, which is different from the more upbeat and faster Final Fantasy X. As usual with FF games from VII, this one has a unique skill system, which is worthThis game is true to the "Fantasy" in its name. Having played most of the games in the final fantasy series (before XI), I still say this is my favorite because of its ability to give you that sense of everlasting and calm adventure, which is different from the more upbeat and faster Final Fantasy X. As usual with FF games from VII, this one has a unique skill system, which is worth mastering, not that it is complex.… Expand
  57. ptonyoliver
    Aug 1, 2016
    9
    In my opinion, the slower pace of battles compared to previous entries is more than compensated for its beautiful world, beautiful story, charming characters and overall "fantasy" setting that made this series popular in the first place. It is my favorite FInal Fantasy game along with VI.
  58. Keksmann
    Aug 24, 2016
    10
    It's a beautiful and shockingly dark fantasy game, set in a wonderful world with amazing characters. Touching, funny, gripping. The most underrated Final Fantasy game of all time.
  59. demonSQL
    Mar 17, 2017
    10
    The negative reviews are absolute **** They were made by people without criteria. This is by far one of the most beatiful stories of all time. The music, the gameplay, the script, the graphics taking advantage of the limits of the PSX. EVERYTHING of this game is wonderful. Final Fantasy IX is really a "Melody of Life"
  60. lethen
    Nov 29, 2016
    10
    Best game ever made Best game ever made Best game ever made Best game ever made Best game ever made Best game ever made Best game ever made Best game ever made Best game ever made Best game ever made Best game ever made Best game ever made Best game ever made
  61. kwame
    Apr 6, 2017
    10
    best final fantasy game to this date. both final fantasy 7 and 8 were great and put the bar for new final fantasy games but 9 put that bar even higher. Evrything that made those games great are in this game and imporved with new cool stuff.
  62. JoseAn13Torres
    Sep 4, 2019
    10
    Tras varias entregas de Final Fantasy por fín volvía uno a tener un plantel de cuatro luchadores y a estar ambientado en una época medieval, a mi personalmente me encanta que esto fuese así, una pena que al igual que su antecesor FFVIII viviesen eclipsados por FFVII, esto sumado a la muerte inminente de la Sony PlayStation que iba a dar paso enseguida a PlayStation 2 hicieron que el juegoTras varias entregas de Final Fantasy por fín volvía uno a tener un plantel de cuatro luchadores y a estar ambientado en una época medieval, a mi personalmente me encanta que esto fuese así, una pena que al igual que su antecesor FFVIII viviesen eclipsados por FFVII, esto sumado a la muerte inminente de la Sony PlayStation que iba a dar paso enseguida a PlayStation 2 hicieron que el juego no tuviese mucho éxito entonces, aún asi, este juego alcanzó el techo técnico de PlayStation y consiguió envejecer muy bien. Mi videojuego favorito de 32 bits.… Expand
  63. srianne
    Mar 30, 2017
    9
    Re-played this game on PS Vita and the nostalgia is still there. The opening song never ceases to hit me right in the feels when I finished the game on PSOne. I had the song playing while on my Chocobo in FFXV.

    The music is just one thing. Story-wise, though a little linear (please don't hate me for using that word, I don't like it eaither), it was fantastic. The visuals are good    Re-played this game on PS Vita and the nostalgia is still there. The opening song never ceases to hit me right in the feels when I finished the game on PSOne. I had the song playing while on my Chocobo in FFXV.

    The music is just one thing.

    Story-wise, though a little linear (please don't hate me for using that word, I don't like it eaither), it was fantastic.

    The visuals are good for a PSOne title.

    It's gameplay mechanics and tons of mini-games are what made this game more interesting.

    The character build up is there but could have expanded more on some playable characters as I find it a little lacking.

    I'd give it a 9.5/10.

    The .5 is for forcing people to rush the game just to get some ultimate weapon. I wanted to enjoy my as much as I want.    … Expand
  64. kjatafoxhound
    Aug 7, 2017
    10
    The best videogame of history. All here is perfect. Argument, charcacters, music, gameplay, graphics...
    Tras tres obras maestras para la historia, Square logró superarse llevando su fórmula a las cotas más altas. Diseños y escenarios inmejorables y mágicos de la mano de los mejores gráficos del momento. Una historia sencillamente perfecta, colosal y memorable...y la música del genio    The best videogame of history. All here is perfect. Argument, charcacters, music, gameplay, graphics...
    Tras tres obras maestras para la historia, Square logró superarse llevando su fórmula a las cotas más altas. Diseños y escenarios inmejorables y mágicos de la mano de los mejores gráficos del momento. Una historia sencillamente perfecta, colosal y memorable...y la música del genio Uematsu.    … Expand
  65. eredhel
    Jul 7, 2017
    10
    With an epic story, high quality music score, marvelous gameplay and breath taking graphics at the time, makes this game a masterpiece. A true state of the art Final Fantasy entry.
  66. 17_jrpg
    Aug 3, 2017
    10
    For me Final Fantasy IX is the best Final Fantasy game ever. This is the first Final Fantasy game and the first JRPG I've played when I bought PSone and after playing I start to like JRPGs. After I played all the other Final Fantasy games I started to understand why I like this game so much.

    The story of Final Fantasy IX is very good because it has funny, happy, sad, tragic and dramatic    For me Final Fantasy IX is the best Final Fantasy game ever. This is the first Final Fantasy game and the first JRPG I've played when I bought PSone and after playing I start to like JRPGs. After I played all the other Final Fantasy games I started to understand why I like this game so much.

    The story of Final Fantasy IX is very good because it has funny, happy, sad, tragic and dramatic moments. The backstory of main and secondary characters is also good and helps you understand the whole story better and especially the end. I read some criticisms that refer to the final boss and I must say I disagree with those criticisms. Those critics say that the final boss does not fit into the whole story, that actually does not have a meaning in the story. To these criticisms I can say that they did not even understand the whole story and especially the role of the main villain who, due to his actions, is responsible for summoning the final boss. For me, the final boss of this game is one of the best final bosses, which is very well designed and is very difficult if you are not well prepared for the battle. The design of the whole game (characters and the world) is also very good and I especially like the design of Black mages, especially the character Vivi and Black Waltz No. 3.

    A gameplay of this game is also very good. I like how each character has its own class, its own abilities, which means no character is the same. This helps the player to create their own strategy during the battle by balancing strengths and weaknesses of the characters. The Battle system is excellent. The ATB system is my favorite battle system. The only bad thing they did is Trance system and it's the only defect of the battle system. It's the only mistake they have made and if they ever decide to make a remake of Final Fantasy IX, they should only correct and improve Trance system in battle system of this game. Also this game has interesting mini games like Tetra Master and Chocobo Hot and Cold, and has one of the toughest superbosses of Final Fantasy games.

    Conclusion: Final Fantasy IX is one of the best JRPGs and deserves remake so that future generations also can experience this classic JRPG with improved graphics and corrected minor error.    … Expand
  67. auditbadger
    Sep 26, 2018
    9
    I think that this is truly a unique game and I would recommend that if you are a fan of this type of genre then I think you should give this game a try.
  68. pendelberry
    Feb 1, 2020
    10
    I own and have beaten every Final Fantasy they have made for the mainline and i have to say this is my personal favorite in the series.
  69. fearthemost
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    The best Final Fantasy ever made. The story is good, the music is incredible and the characters are charismatic. the game has a perfect balance of drama and humor.
  70. AndreaM84
    Aug 1, 2020
    10
    This is THE RPG. Period. No game will ever match the beauty of this gem. Even today, even in a million years, no game will ever be able to match FFIX.
  71. Vanta77
    Sep 20, 2018
    10
    Best storyline and characters in the history of jrpg and one of the best games ever.
  72. Letfio
    Oct 20, 2018
    10
    The best game ever developed. A perfect story, lovely character, long-lasting gameplay and a absolute fantastic soundtrack. Buy it, play it, love it.
  73. Kunray
    Feb 15, 2019
    10
    A very nice RPG with very good story, gameplay, music and many sidequests that represents and returns us back to the roots of the final fantasy series.
  74. Kezian
    Jul 30, 2019
    9
    Final Fantasy IX is a great game ! But I prefer the seven, I'm sorry Zidane.
  75. KratosKong
    Jan 18, 2019
    10
    Este videojuego dentro del genero de los JRPG lo tiene todo, buena historia, buenos personajes, buena jugabilidad y un largo etc. Posiblemente sea la mejor entrega de la saga Final Fantasy.
  76. VicioArcade
    Feb 13, 2019
    10
    This game is full of magic; Music, characters, story... One of the best games ever created, and the best Final Fantasy of PSX in my opinion.
  77. TimNotSam
    Mar 2, 2019
    10
    Behold the game that has my favourite character of all time (Vivi). I relate to this game a lot and it asks a lot of questions and presents it in a beautiful package. I believe one of the lead creators of the the Final Fantasy series said this game is his favourite. I would agree, from my experiences of Final Fantasy. It presents a world you can get immersed in and you care for whatBehold the game that has my favourite character of all time (Vivi). I relate to this game a lot and it asks a lot of questions and presents it in a beautiful package. I believe one of the lead creators of the the Final Fantasy series said this game is his favourite. I would agree, from my experiences of Final Fantasy. It presents a world you can get immersed in and you care for what happens to the characters. THe pacing is great with plenty of events and to not make the game stale. For anyone new to Final Fantasy I would recommend this one… Expand
  78. MudRipChar
    Mar 5, 2019
    10
    A masterpiece in every way. From the characters, music, gameplay, pacing, emotional gut punches, this game has it all. The perfect swan song to the PS1 era.
  79. Fletch1027
    Feb 21, 2023
    9
    My favorite Final Fantasy with a charming cast of characters with classic turn based combat. It has some of the best cutscenes of all the Ps1 Final Fantasy games.
  80. ArcCoat
    Jun 11, 2019
    9
    I give this game a 9.5/10
    Great soundtrack, great game play, great story.
    I don't give it a full score just because of my love/hate relationship with the chibi character design that they decided to go for that game, on one hand the character design gives the game its old-school charming design, on the other hand it makes it a bit harder sometimes to take the characters too seriously.    I give this game a 9.5/10
    Great soundtrack, great game play, great story.

    I don't give it a full score just because of my love/hate relationship with the chibi character design that they decided to go for that game, on one hand the character design gives the game its old-school charming design, on the other hand it makes it a bit harder sometimes to take the characters too seriously.

    To conclude, when you think of final fantasy, this is exactly what you would imagine it to be. I think the perfect words to describe that game would be theatrical, charming and grandiose.    … Expand
  81. nachoespoz
    Sep 3, 2019
    10
    el final fantasy mas bello que he jugado.
    que grandes son los personajes de este juego, todos son increíbles y agradables, mención especial a vivi que es un personaje que sabe ganarse al jugador sin ser el protagonista, personajes como el te recuerdan porque final fantasy es una saga de prestigio. yitan es el mejor protagonista de cualquier final fanatsy, un gran personaje que no solo    el final fantasy mas bello que he jugado.
    que grandes son los personajes de este juego, todos son increíbles y agradables, mención especial a vivi que es un personaje que sabe ganarse al jugador sin ser el protagonista, personajes como el te recuerdan porque final fantasy es una saga de prestigio. yitan es el mejor protagonista de cualquier final fanatsy, un gran personaje que no solo brilla por sus acciones sino que también por lo que te hace sentir. garnet es mas que un interés amoroso o una doncella que rescatar, es una mujer hecha y derecha que nos recuerda lo fuerte que puede ser una mujer con voluntad y actitud. no menciono al resto de los personajes porque quiero hablar de otras cosas y no alargar esta parte pero sepan que cada uno es muy carismático y con un desarrollo de personaje muy bien elaborado.
    hay un romance muy bien logrado entre yitan y garnet, nace de forma natural y divertida para el jugador, de verdad sentí que eran el uno para el otro.
    la música... es un final fantasy obvio que es buena.
    tal vez mi única critica negativa es el sistema de combate, no es malo todo lo contrario es bueno pero... las transformaciones (ataques especiales o "limites" como también son conocidos) aleatorias fueron una mala idea y que triste porque son los mejores de cualquier final fanatsy pero que no lo puedas controlar cuando ocurren puede chocar. otra cosa que te puede molestar es que la magia y habilidades se aprenden de las armas y del tiempo que las usas, no fue mala idea y debo reconocer que disfrute de las habilidades y magias que te ofrece este juego, ademas que no me molesto como se obtenían a lo largo del juego pero supe de gente que no le termino de gustar y los entiendo ya que fue una idea un tanto inusual.
    termino no solo recomendando el juego a todos los amantes de los rpg por turnos, sino que también a cualquiera que quiera comenzar con este tipo de juego, para mi este es el mas amigable para empezar en este genero.    … Expand
  82. Ismaelponce
    Jun 21, 2020
    10
    Una obra maestra, artísticamente, a nivel de personajes, historia y mensaje. Probablemente no volvamos a ver algo así, hasta dentro de mucho tiempo.
  83. Kingdomhear
    Dec 6, 2020
    10
    Non ce bisogno di recensirlo....va assolutamente giocato ....un magico ed epico viaggio....fantastico
  84. Zway26
    Nov 8, 2019
    10
    My favorite JRPG. Can't forget the feeling this game gave to me. Also one of my favorite video games.
  85. Genek13
    Nov 19, 2019
    8
    FIrst FF game I ever played and it was very enjoyable (on PS Vita).
    Great story with likable characters.
  86. blessme
    Dec 8, 2019
    10
    This game doesn't get the praise it deserves. It's beautifully made, it's entertaining, has a wonderful soundtrack and the history is great. The dialogue can feel a little childish sometimes, but it's still a must play RPG.
  87. GazpachoFresco
    May 4, 2020
    10
    A master piece. The best JRPG ever made. The story, the music, the art and the gameplay are perfect.
    The game all the other jrpgs should compare themselves to.
  88. Arrrang
    May 27, 2020
    10
    The last and the best PlayStation Final Fantasy. It's a better game then the legendarny VII. It simply wasn't the first one, the game-changer.
  89. Takanome
    Jun 2, 2020
    10
    It’s an absolute amazing game. It has good Soundtracks, awesome Characters, awesome story and much more. In that Game you will feal all kind of Emotion. It’s funny, sad, dramatic... For me it’s the best Final Fantasy and verry good to be you’re first Final Fantasy. It’s an absolute must play.
  90. Sitheral
    Jun 14, 2020
    9
    This quite literally would be a perfect Final Fantasy game if not for the fact that it is a bit sloppy in battles (probably because 4 character party) and well... while setting has its undieniable charm, I like 7 and 8 much more, but thats more of a personal opinion. I suppose summons could be more exciting as well. But overall, its a wonderful game.
  91. Cyriad
    Jun 15, 2020
    10
    Apart from things like the time you get the weapons you have been waiting for or that you just have to farm a lot with some of them to get great abilities, the game is a masterpiece. The story and the characters are amazing; the visuals are great for a game released in 2000, and the music is wonderful too. The game also makes you think a lot, since each character has his own way ofApart from things like the time you get the weapons you have been waiting for or that you just have to farm a lot with some of them to get great abilities, the game is a masterpiece. The story and the characters are amazing; the visuals are great for a game released in 2000, and the music is wonderful too. The game also makes you think a lot, since each character has his own way of thinking and seeing life, making it really interesting to read the dialogues. After playing it, how can you not fall in love with this game?… Expand
  92. Svetlendrius
    Aug 26, 2020
    8
    An excellent, cartoonish and fabulous JRPG with a great message and morality. Interesting pumping system. Impressive supporting characters and a standard yet good soundtrack.
  93. Brunosousagomes
    Jul 6, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Melhor ff , leva o jogo de volta as origens! Despedida do clássico ps1 !! Favorito do criador da série, hironibu sagakuchi, trilha sonora impecável do nobuo uematsu !! Personagem mais carismático de toda a série , vivi ornitier !! Game incrível!!… Expand
  94. LasseRon
    Jul 3, 2023
    10
    Easily the best Final Fantasy. Great story and characters. Fun combat and world. Masterpiece.
  95. CasteloB
    Jul 12, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is the best game I ever played so far, not only the original and well done history but the amazing soundtrack



    ,    … Expand
  96. ff9alex
    Apr 13, 2021
    10
    For me this is the best game ever created the music the characters, the events, chocobo treasure hunts, I can't describe how much this game have influenced me.

    Masterpiece
  97. Onlyclassicvg1
    Sep 19, 2022
    8
    Sauron's forces have laid siege to Minas Tirith, the capital of Gondor, in their efforts to eliminate the race of men. The once-great kingdom, watched over by a fading steward, has never been in more desperate need of its king. But can Aragorn (Viggo Mortensen) answer the call of his heritage and become what he was born to be? In no small
  98. darknightserg
    Jun 28, 2020
    10
    The best Final Fantasy to date. Beautiful world, amazing cast of characters and a gorgeous return to a fairy tale and knighthood setting. Final Fantasy IX is the best in the series
  99. FaFCSr
    Sep 27, 2020
    10
    My favourite Final Fantasy game. A tale about the meaning of the life. Great characters. Spoiler: you will cry several times.
  100. just_rossi
    Jan 20, 2023
    10
    Un juego precioso desde su apartado narrativo hasta visual, que enseña muchas cosas bellas para la vida.
    Ojalá haberlo jugado antes para comprender mejor el significado de la vida y estar vivo.
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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

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
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
  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]
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
    Read full review
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