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. 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
  2. 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
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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
  6. 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"
  7. 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
  8. ziko_xman
    Dec 15, 2016
    10
    i have played a lot of video games but no one can be close to this masterpiece.

    story_

    music_

    characters_

    game-play_

    graphics (may be old but still good )_

    emotional moments_

    beautiful world_

    it's have everything.
    the perfect game
    Final Fantasy IX is the true meaning of Final Fantasy
  9. 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
  10. 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.
  11. Seafox89
    Aug 8, 2016
    6
    As a followup to FF7 and FF8, I found FF9 to be a bit disappointing. Much of the classic Final Fantasy content is there: sounds, summons, battle system (with unique additions to gameplay and abilities), items, a charming cast of characters, vast worlds to explore, stunning artwork and graphics (for the era), etc. However, a few of the core elements that have made past FF games great areAs a followup to FF7 and FF8, I found FF9 to be a bit disappointing. Much of the classic Final Fantasy content is there: sounds, summons, battle system (with unique additions to gameplay and abilities), items, a charming cast of characters, vast worlds to explore, stunning artwork and graphics (for the era), etc. However, a few of the core elements that have made past FF games great are missing or subpar.

    The music was particularly lacking. Some of the tracks were great, some were just ok, and some were flat out annoying (I'm looking at you Black Mage Village music). Some good stuff there, but definitely not Nobuo's best.

    The character development and story were also lacking. This is the primary offender which kept this game from being quite good. The dialogue was often over-dramatic, muddled, and confusing. Characters lacked consistency and depth. They would often say and do things that did not seem to follow logically from the storyline or the character's past actions/dialogue. FF6, FF7, & FF8 had really solid characters that you felt like you knew very well by the end of the game. FF9 certainly had interesting characters (Vivi was a gem), but most of them I could not really connect with due to poor character development. I was constantly trying to figure out what kind of characters the game developers were trying to convey.

    The FF series is known for being imaginative and often lofty or mysterious (especially the epic endings), but I definitely feel that the over-arching plot of FF9 stepped too far into the "weirdness" realm and lost me somewhere in disc 4. What may have been intended as epic plot "twists" really just came off as out-of-nowhere what-were-they-thinking hard-to-accept plot devices thrown in your face. Where is the context and the subtle hints throughout the game that help lead up to a satisfying conclusion? I found myself largely disconnected with the story at the end. I tried really hard to immerse myself, but I couldn't get a grip on to the convoluted and confusing story.

    Ultimately, I'm glad I played through FF9, because I'm a fan of the series and there are some truly great moments in this game. However, a more accessible storyline with more consistent character development could've ranked this game up there with FF7 and FF8 as a true FF classic.    … Expand
  12. 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.
  13. 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.
  14. 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
  15. FF9sucked
    Jul 9, 2016
    1
    Let me tell you, as one of the final fantasy franchises biggest fans, and growing up with their games I was never more disappointed than when I played this game. This game ruined all my hopes and actually made me fear to buy another one of their games. The plot line was lame, the characters looked lame, Zidanes relationship with Sarah was cool but it was so plain and boring, nothing likeLet me tell you, as one of the final fantasy franchises biggest fans, and growing up with their games I was never more disappointed than when I played this game. This game ruined all my hopes and actually made me fear to buy another one of their games. The plot line was lame, the characters looked lame, Zidanes relationship with Sarah was cool but it was so plain and boring, nothing like that of Zack and Aerith or Tidus and Yuna. It took a million years to level up your characters and boss fights never gave you experience. Sorry I gotta say it again...the characters looked so freiking lame... how do you expect me to take the story line seriously when the characters look like they were made for some failed kids comedy...and the battle system...garbage. It's the system where the bar loads to attack, and they pretend its turn based but its really not. It was so flippin slow ALL the time. Untill you really needed to think wether to use a potion or use magic and the boss was beting on you while you were just trying to plan your sh!t. This game honestly sucked. Don't buy it please. You may never buy a final fantasy game again.… Expand
  16. 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
  17. 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
  18. 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.
  19. 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
  20. ThecriticGoD
    Mar 15, 2016
    8
    People is overrating this game a lot. Hearing people suggesting this is the best Final Fantasy game ever is, in my opinion, a very big lack of objectivity. Honestly, what new things does this games have to offer in regard to the previous FF's? That's right, nothing. FF7 brought Final Fantasy to a whole new level, innovated like no final fantasy had ever done, hence it's success. FF8 was aPeople is overrating this game a lot. Hearing people suggesting this is the best Final Fantasy game ever is, in my opinion, a very big lack of objectivity. Honestly, what new things does this games have to offer in regard to the previous FF's? That's right, nothing. FF7 brought Final Fantasy to a whole new level, innovated like no final fantasy had ever done, hence it's success. FF8 was a very big innovative success aswell. The junction system, the G.F system (you can improve them, they replace HP's gauge when they are being summoned) etc, the more realistic graphics, it was definetely something fresh and exciting. Now think about FF9... We go back to the old job system, eventhough you can't even select which character has what job here, thus characters have 0 customization, making some combination of characters non-viable, we had materias and junction before, what do we have now? The old nintendo Final fantasy system where you can only choose weapon, armor, accessory and that's it. Well, you can learn spells out of that, how innovative... Besides that there's NO new feature at all, even the minigame (tetra-master) is highly inspired by FF8's triple triad.

    It almost feels like Square just wanted to give the sentation of "oh, we know our roots, so eventhough we're gonna deliver an inferior game we'll have our old fans happy making a modern old-FF game." Now into the characters, Vivi is a very interesting character, one of the best characters in FF. But Zidane? Eiko? Quina? Steiner? and what's with the moogles and all the kid-jokes? Kinda feels like they wanted to make a childish game in some aspects, which was so disappointing considering how mature and interesting Final Fantasy was becoming with FF7 and then FF8, eventhough I'm glad it went back to that with FFX.

    Now, FF9 is not a bad game, at all. It has a great storyline, beautiful graphics, very good music, I'd recommend it to everyone that likes RPGS... It just offers nothing new to the saga in my opinion and is highly overrated, definetely not on the level of FF7, FF8 or FF10 for me.    … Expand
  21. Karuzo
    Feb 28, 2016
    10
    This was the game that introduced me to RPG's. in my personal opinion the best in the series, from chocobos to moogles that save with a phoenix pinion, this game has everything you could ever need/want from a final fantasy game. Huge replay ability with secrets and mini games to keep you occupied for hours on end.
  22. perkjl
    Jan 4, 2016
    9
    First Final Fantasy game I ever completed. It has some unusual characters, but they are fun nonetheless. They will definitely grow on you over the course of the game. Everything else about this FF entry plays it safe in the sense that it's more traditional than FFVIII or even FFVII. Lot's of references from all FF games and a nod to the earlier entries FF1-6). Great game and beautifulFirst Final Fantasy game I ever completed. It has some unusual characters, but they are fun nonetheless. They will definitely grow on you over the course of the game. Everything else about this FF entry plays it safe in the sense that it's more traditional than FFVIII or even FFVII. Lot's of references from all FF games and a nod to the earlier entries FF1-6). Great game and beautiful FMV's and worlds. Possibly my favorite airship overworld music as well.… Expand
  23. antifocus
    Jan 1, 2016
    10
    The best in the series. Beautiful scenario, beautiful music. The story is well told and makes sense, unlike FFXIII. Mini games are not tedious or difficult that make you want to throw away your controller like FFX. Finally, melodies of life is beautiful beyond description.
  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. 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.
  26. 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
  27. 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.
  28. everin
    Oct 1, 2015
    8
    Tier 1
    + One of the most unique RPG aesthetics to be found in gaming
    + Has a colorful and entertaining cast of supporting characters + Offers a beautiful, memorable world that rewards exploration and is colored by story and gameplay + Stunning soundtrack ? Like all FF games, the plot starts strong, develops well, and then descends into chaotic nonsense in the final act ? Requires a    Tier 1
    + One of the most unique RPG aesthetics to be found in gaming
    + Has a colorful and entertaining cast of supporting characters
    + Offers a beautiful, memorable world that rewards exploration and is colored by story and gameplay
    + Stunning soundtrack
    ? Like all FF games, the plot starts strong, develops well, and then descends into chaotic nonsense in the final act
    ? Requires a huge amount of grinding to successfully progress, with several unexplained and unintuitive progression systems tied to items
    - Combat does not age well, makes the prospect of replaying daunting    … Expand
  29. Gaiduk
    Sep 3, 2015
    2
    It's a pile of old ideas from previous FF and nothing fresh, the story is so predictable and naive that reading old novels make you sleeping slower than playing this. The last masterpiece from Square was Xenogears.
  30. celebi734
    Aug 26, 2015
    10
    Final Fantasy IX was the last true game in the series. IX took everything that made the older games great and perfected everything. The story is in my opinion the best in the series where every character has his/her own story to tell and it has a bunch of throw backs to the games before 7 and 8. The combat system is fun and simple yet challenging. The soundtrack is just beautiful. The gameFinal Fantasy IX was the last true game in the series. IX took everything that made the older games great and perfected everything. The story is in my opinion the best in the series where every character has his/her own story to tell and it has a bunch of throw backs to the games before 7 and 8. The combat system is fun and simple yet challenging. The soundtrack is just beautiful. The game has some great graphics for a PS1 game with fantastic looking FMV sequences. To me and Hironobu Sakaguchi this is the best Final Fantasy game of all time.… Expand
  31. Phanixis
    Jul 26, 2015
    2
    This game is an absolutely mess, but the worst of its crimes is it is just downright boring. Combat in particular is just a tedious slog, as the way both enemy and friendly attacks are rendered makes combat take forever, and the removal of character customization options that were incorporated and refined in previous installments makes combat repetitive. If you have played any other FFThis game is an absolutely mess, but the worst of its crimes is it is just downright boring. Combat in particular is just a tedious slog, as the way both enemy and friendly attacks are rendered makes combat take forever, and the removal of character customization options that were incorporated and refined in previous installments makes combat repetitive. If you have played any other FF before, you have played this one, as it does absolutely nothing to introduce any new variation in regards to its core gameplay mechanic, save a weird system of abilities learned from equipment that is far too passive to alter the way combat plays out.

    The story, while it starts strong, quickly degrades into absolute and convoluted mess. The game's supposed protagonist run around observing events but really doing nothing to change them while the plot becomes increasingly obtuse and contorted. It is a failure in storytelling on virtually every level. And this isn't even getting into the mess that is the final boss. This game will have you slogging through boring and uneventful random combats only to be fed a bizarre failure of a story piecemeal.

    About the only good thing I can say about this game is the graphics or gorgeous. Well, the background graphics at any rate. The characters themselves looked like your dog swallowed a bunch of colorful ribbons and then vomited them on your couch, but the backgrounds really do look nice. Unfortunately, while pretty backgrounds might make for a good screensaver, they do not make for a good video game.

    This game is nostalgia bait for those yearning for Final Fantasy to return to its Swords and Sorcery roots that fails to live up to the high standards of previous installments of the series. Save your time, money and sanity and avoid this mess.    … Expand
  32. 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.
  33. XRaidenX
    May 6, 2015
    10
    In my opinion, better than Final Fantasy VII .
  34. Vataro
    Mar 29, 2015
    10
    Holi Moli war ich überrascht , wie viel ich verpasst habe , als ich 2015 zum ersten Mal ein Final Fantasy zu Augen bekam ! Zwar war das nur ein Let's play , aber sogar das konnte mich meilenweit überzeugen ... Gelungene Meisterarbeit ! :D
  35. Deejalm
    Mar 20, 2015
    10
    I don't know about you guys, but I personally loved this game to bits. Although I have played FF7 (loved it!) But FF9 is more of my cup of tea. It brings such joy to my heart, and it rekindles my inner child too. I have played this game nearly 5 times now and I'll definitely replay it in another 10 years. Zidane is my favorite protagonist. I'm surprised he's still not in KH but it'sI don't know about you guys, but I personally loved this game to bits. Although I have played FF7 (loved it!) But FF9 is more of my cup of tea. It brings such joy to my heart, and it rekindles my inner child too. I have played this game nearly 5 times now and I'll definitely replay it in another 10 years. Zidane is my favorite protagonist. I'm surprised he's still not in KH but it's probably since he's pretty similar to Sora's character. Furthermore, many may find FF9's style odd (in terms of costumes) but the eerie feel to it grows on you with the old medieval setting. It's one of its kind. It has its own mystical feel to it which I adore. Best scene would be with the soundtrack "You're Not Alone". And village Dali is just UGH. Even if you haven't played FF9 in young age, you'll still feel nostalgic playing it now.… Expand
  36. Anebriate
    Mar 17, 2015
    10
    This game really does feel like the last of its kind. Squaresoft did so, so many things right in the Playstation 1 era, and Final Fantasy IX is the culmination of all of its past knowledge and experiences.

    I believe that those crucial people who made Final Fantasy great saw this game, realized that they had fulfilled their ambitions, and moved on with their lives, leaving the franchise    This game really does feel like the last of its kind. Squaresoft did so, so many things right in the Playstation 1 era, and Final Fantasy IX is the culmination of all of its past knowledge and experiences.

    I believe that those crucial people who made Final Fantasy great saw this game, realized that they had fulfilled their ambitions, and moved on with their lives, leaving the franchise in the hands of a new generation. Even after all these years of fumbling around in wake of that departure, Square still has not managed to recapture the elements that made Final Fantasy IX one of the best RPGs of all time.    … Expand
  37. Shenmue
    Mar 16, 2015
    10
    Best Final Fantasy game! Best Final Fantasy game! Best Final Fantasy game! Best Final Fantasy game! Best Final Fantasy game! Best Final Fantasy game!Best Final Fantasy game!
  38. FogCityRoller
    Mar 14, 2015
    9
    Okay so 15 years later I decided to give FF9 another chance. I was fairly repulsed by this game as a teenager and I was a huge fan of Final Fantasy after playing IV & VI on the SNES (or II & III in North America) and VII. I admit to playing this game with a bit of a closed mind and constantly sizing it up with FFVII, which in the franchise of Final Fantasy should never be done. While IOkay so 15 years later I decided to give FF9 another chance. I was fairly repulsed by this game as a teenager and I was a huge fan of Final Fantasy after playing IV & VI on the SNES (or II & III in North America) and VII. I admit to playing this game with a bit of a closed mind and constantly sizing it up with FFVII, which in the franchise of Final Fantasy should never be done. While I will never agree with those that suggest it is the best of the PS titles, it has a thoroughly engaging story with characters that keep you constantly invested in their story arcs. My only complaint is the card game, even as a side game, is just plain silly when there is no actual strategy involved. Even 15 years ago I found it annoying.… Expand
  39. 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.
  40. TheGoodGoat
    Feb 10, 2015
    10
    To review quite possibly the best game ever made, I have divided this review into different sections (There will be heavy comparison to FFVII and FFVIII since they are often grouped together):

    Tradition/Place in the Series: FFIX obviously brings to mind the older and more difficult final fantasy games. Not only does this game reintroduce us to character classes, it treats them with    To review quite possibly the best game ever made, I have divided this review into different sections (There will be heavy comparison to FFVII and FFVIII since they are often grouped together):

    Tradition/Place in the Series:

    FFIX obviously brings to mind the older and more difficult final fantasy games. Not only does this game reintroduce us to character classes, it treats them with appropriate respect. FFVII and FFVIII received a lot of acclaim for their customization but such customization made each character essentially the same. Any character can use Ultima and any character can Heal. This customization took away from the characters of the game, treating them all as blank canvases for the player to paint on. The problem is that every player would likely mold the same 1 dimensional characters. FFIX gives you a cast of characters that balance each other on the battlefield and in the story. The main character is not physically the strongest, is not capable of dealing the most damage, and cannot cast magic. He is dependent, in a symbiotic relationship, with the rest of the characters. The last FF game that does this is FFIV, easily one of the more challenging FF Games.

    Gameplay:

    As alluded to before, the gameplay is considerably different in its depth than the previous two final fantasy games. While the active time battle system made a welcomed return, the different roles, created by the characters' different abilities, make the battle system much more delicate. If the white mage dies, you will want to use a phoenix down immediately because they are the only character that can cast healing magic. The overworld is brighter and the graphics are superior, partially helping the vastly improved controls. In previous games, it was sometimes hard to even move in the direction you wanted. The battles are intense, come down to the wire, and must be planned as part of a greater goal to reach the next save point. Whereas in other FF games you can essentially beat the entire game by attacking, healing, and casting the later black magic spells, FFIX places a greater emphasis on cooperation and alternative spells. The mage characters, for the most part, have very low attack and their role is simply that of a mage. The main character, a thief, can only attack, steal, and use a variety of relatively useless Thief Skills. Despite this, the emphasis on stealing is clear. Perhaps more than in any other FF game, stealing is critical to getting rare items and equipment.

    Storyline/Plot:

    I never really understood what was so great about Squall and Cloud. They both whine a lot and have this unfounded swagger. They both have rivals that intimidate them and lack the confidence of a true hero. Now, I understand that their characters are meant to be brooding anti-hero types but, in my opinion, they come off as unrealistic and lame. Would Squall, with his pessimistic insecurities, be a good soldier? Would Cloud, with his existentialist crisis and slightly disturbing idolization of Sephiroth, be a good soldier or even a person you would want to hang out with? The rest of the cast of these two games is also riddled with interchangeable, generic, and forgettable characters like Selphie, Zell, Irvine, Quistis, Barrett, and Cait Sith. FFIX, on the other hand, has a worthwhile hero whose attitude is conducive to saving the world and doing incredible things. In fact, the determination of virtually all the characters to do good is conducive of a good story; a story where a band of misfits save the world. Each character has his or her own journey that reveals what they are versus what you thought they were. Though some of the characters have cliched moments, they all break out of their shell in enjoyable ways. Without spoiling the story, I cannot make the arguments that I want to on behalf of this brilliantly written game. Now a little about the ending of the game WITHOUT ANY SPOILERS! A lot of RPGs seemingly tend to end on a semi dark note. Though the quest is completed, there is some hangup the characters have. If not that, the villain's devastation is too significant to ignore. Those that have played FFVII, FFVI, and FFX will know what I mean. FFIX, on the other hand has a complete ending where only a superfan like myself should be left wondering "what happened afterwards?" The ending gives a sense of completion and success unlike some of the darker endings in games where the player's achievements are taken up under him/her by some ridiculous plot twist. Bearing in mind that FFIX has plenty of plot twists that are cool and unexpected while also being consistent to the story and mythos of the game.

    If you have never played this game, DO IT. It is easily one of the best games ever with the best characters and a great story. Easily the most underrated FF game to date (FFXII is a close second). The best ever!

    Good for: Everyone

    Not good for: Squall, Cloud, and Sephiroth fanboys who like insecurity in their badasses.    … Expand
  41. HopelessVoice
    Feb 1, 2015
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is perhaps the only FF entry where I disagree with the common consesus; sure it's good, enjoyable and still has the open world roaming and item hunting, yet I never truly connected with IX. This has mostly to do with a dozen of minor things which do not seem like real issues by themselves, but when adding them together an issue occurs.

    Although the plot and the world are both solid FF stuff, the gameplay feels slow when compared to other entries. Character customization is extremely limited as you are only able to make minor tweaks to the characters and there's only really one end game boss, which only requries a single and simple strategy to beat. Whereas VIII had the card game nicely implemented, IX card game felt a bit out of place. The limit breaks/trance in IX were just acquired by something, I even don't know how, as at point I just was able to do the best trance skill with Zidane without no apparent reason. Perhaps there's something I missed to truly understand and enjoy the game as much as it recieves praise, but I simply found nothing out of the ordinairy in it. The game felt like Square was trying to do everything too carefully, and the result was a solid careful game that neither broke anything or made anything better. 7/10    … Expand
  42. banda89
    Dec 31, 2014
    10
    I don't usually give a perfect score, but this being my favorite game, deserves it.
    Character design seems to be the main reason some people like to pass on this game, but that makes the character more lovable.
    Great storyline, great characters and character development, soundtrack may be the best in the series, battle system easy to understand and actually works (not like the    I don't usually give a perfect score, but this being my favorite game, deserves it.
    Character design seems to be the main reason some people like to pass on this game, but that makes the character more lovable.
    Great storyline, great characters and character development, soundtrack may be the best in the series, battle system easy to understand and actually works (not like the complicated junction system in FFVIII), you get attached to the characters and want them to have a happy conclusion to their journey, from Zidane to Eiko.    … Expand
  43. 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
  44. Sephiroth_X
    Oct 25, 2014
    9
    After FF7 & 8 squaresoft decided to make a TRUE final fantasy game and the last and only FF in cd format that i love. Wish they remade this only graphically, cause is such a sweet game! Characters, soundtrack, etc you feel like in a circus fantasy experience.

    Play it if you can, like all ps1 3D games has not aged so good, but still has the nice 2D backgrounds to enjoy. Its the    After FF7 & 8 squaresoft decided to make a TRUE final fantasy game and the last and only FF in cd format that i love. Wish they remade this only graphically, cause is such a sweet game! Characters, soundtrack, etc you feel like in a circus fantasy experience.

    Play it if you can, like all ps1 3D games has not aged so good, but still has the nice 2D backgrounds to enjoy. Its the characters that could get some work on a remake.

    Recommended.    … Expand
  45. 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
  46. ZanathKariashi
    Oct 1, 2014
    9
    Easily the best of the "modern" Final Fantasys (though still not quite as good as the some of the SNES era FFs).

    Graphics are out of the park. Going with a heavily stylized art-style helped the game in the long run, and even today it's one of the best looking Final Fantasys as a result. The ATE system add a surprising amount of depth and interactivity, letting you see background    Easily the best of the "modern" Final Fantasys (though still not quite as good as the some of the SNES era FFs).

    Graphics are out of the park. Going with a heavily stylized art-style helped the game in the long run, and even today it's one of the best looking Final Fantasys as a result.

    The ATE system add a surprising amount of depth and interactivity, letting you see background events or even gaining access to certain perks or encounters depending on the choices taken, which is one of the best uses to date for the player who actually wants to immerse themselves fully into the world/story.

    Going back to static classes was initially a downside, (since only really 1, 4, and 9 have enforced class roles) unlocking pretty much everything at anytime, but on the other hand, it does at least prevent everything from becoming Samey since each character is definitely unique, instead of everyone becoming pretty much carbon copies of each other with only minor statistical differences (or their limit break or weapon type alone having the biggest change).

    Music of course is great as always.

    The story was great of course, and was quite refreshing after the double-dipped gloom/doom of the previous titles, though the final boss could've used at least a little more in-game explanation, instead of requiring assembling of some fridge logic on the part of the player. (nothing really wrong with requiring a player to think a little, but it's such a common complaint it might've been just a tad too vague for the tastes of a vocal majority to piece it together).

    The mini-game being the only real mark against it, due to being completely up to RNG, no matter how well you played, unlike 8's card game which at least had consistent rules.    … Expand
  47. Boyrex
    Sep 24, 2014
    10
    This game is the best FF in my opinion. Featured by the perfect OST: I really like the Soundtracks as epic symphony for my ears!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  48. 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.
  49. okamimiyazaki
    Jul 6, 2014
    10
    One of the best, if not the best, Final Fantasy games. This is the only FF game I keep coming back to play over and over again, simply because of how good it is.

    It's very refreshing to get away from the more futuristic theme of the previous few Final Fantasy games and go back to the medieval fantasy setting. The FMVs are, IMO, the best in the Final Fantasy series, with many neat things    One of the best, if not the best, Final Fantasy games. This is the only FF game I keep coming back to play over and over again, simply because of how good it is.

    It's very refreshing to get away from the more futuristic theme of the previous few Final Fantasy games and go back to the medieval fantasy setting. The FMVs are, IMO, the best in the Final Fantasy series, with many neat things happening in them such as battles and summons.

    The combat is rather simple but still addicting. I love how each character is completely unique, instead of being able to make them all pretty much exactly the same such as in 8 or 10. The passive abilities still allow for a degree of strategy and customization, though they can break the game at times.

    The characters are very well developed with unique personalities and none of them are boring or dull (such as Vaan in 12) - you either love or hate 'em. The dialogue is the best in the series and is a pleasure to read.

    The story is fantastic. It is presented and executed perfectly. At the beginning it doesn't seem to have much direction (stealing a princess why?) but everything falls into place throughout the game and is unraveled perfectly, with few to no plot holes or questions left unanswered. It is quite a journey filled with humor, drama, romance and excitement.

    The music is amazing but this is always the case in Final Fantasy games (with Nobuo Uematsu).

    The spell animations are gorgeous and some of the best in the series - e.g. flare and doomsday.

    The only thing I don't like about this Final Fantasy is that it tends to have some balancing issues. Some fights are very difficult while many others are a total joke.    … Expand
  50. boby567
    Jun 13, 2014
    10
    WOW! this game, this game is amazing in every way possible. The game play, story, characters, every thing. I did not play it when it first came out. i just beat it like a month ago. I did not even notice the aged graphics i was having way to much fun. final fantasy 9 is the best final fantasy by far.
  51. KyleS
    Mar 18, 2014
    9
    Great game. Not as good as final fantasy 7 though. The battle mechanics were less interesting and going from the amazing materia system to this was a little disappointing. I didn't feel for the characters as much as I did for the ff7 cast. The villain wasn't as compelling either. I still thinks it's a great game though. After this is when it all went downhill for the final fantasy series.Great game. Not as good as final fantasy 7 though. The battle mechanics were less interesting and going from the amazing materia system to this was a little disappointing. I didn't feel for the characters as much as I did for the ff7 cast. The villain wasn't as compelling either. I still thinks it's a great game though. After this is when it all went downhill for the final fantasy series. One crappy release after another.… Expand
  52. 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
  53. archonome
    Mar 11, 2014
    7
    I just had to change my review for this game... after playing more than 20 hours. I had to log off the game and come on metacritic.....

    The best part of this game is the music, it's very nostalgic and you feel like you are in a magical realm(the music is sophisticated yet catchy/delightful). Unfortunately, I am realising that I can't continue playing this game any longer and I am    I just had to change my review for this game... after playing more than 20 hours. I had to log off the game and come on metacritic.....

    The best part of this game is the music, it's very nostalgic and you feel like you are in a magical realm(the music is sophisticated yet catchy/delightful).

    Unfortunately, I am realising that I can't continue playing this game any longer and I am dissapointed in waiting for the "epic" moment that was supposed to come but after 20 hours...I realise it's not coming at all.

    By half of disc 2, I realised all that I am doing is dealing with non-stop random battles...every 5-6 seconds... I'm forced to fight boring monsters over and over and over and over... Just wishing to get to the next scene.
    Then, I realise that the next scene kinda "bores" me... essentially the MAIN reason is that the story is mediocre at best. It doesn't help that the graphics are horrible on HD screen on the PS3.

    Overall, I have to give this game a 7/10 because it deserves a good rating for being a well-made game for its time. However, I realise that it COMPLETELY dissapoints in comparison to FF7 and FF8. Those 2 games had the constant random battles but they were WORTH IT...the storylines and scenes from the game were rewarding enough to continue...you were enthralled. In comparison, this game feels like they couldn't come up with an epic plot... or deliver a plot in an exciting and nostalgic fashion. Instead, it is rather bland... For example, even the bosses in this game are not memorable at all... the evil characters are rather boring(and they make you fight the same boss over and over and over).

    I can definately see why they decided to change the series after FF9... but it's their own fault. It's not that the old model wasn't excellent... the main problem is they failed to deliver it correctly with FF9.

    Don't get me wrong the game is not horrible... It's decent only because you can tell the developpers loved making games in the 1990-2000 era. You can feel the "atmosphere" and nostalgia in this game at least. IT BEATS ANY NEW "next-gen" games out there.... like FF13 or RE6 lol....

    If square-enix would make a game similar to FF9 in spirit... with a PS3-PS4... they would enchant us all... it would be their chance to re-deem glory.    … Expand
  54. AlienSpaceBats
    Feb 24, 2014
    6
    FFS Final Fantasy. I really enjoyed this game up until somewhere in disc 3, but by then Zidane and co. had outstayed their welcome. By disc 3 we're operating on contrivance, hour after hour of frustrating, stupid random encounters constantly interrupting dungeon exploration, battle scenes that take so god-damn-long to get started (do we really need a thirty second pan of the fightingFFS Final Fantasy. I really enjoyed this game up until somewhere in disc 3, but by then Zidane and co. had outstayed their welcome. By disc 3 we're operating on contrivance, hour after hour of frustrating, stupid random encounters constantly interrupting dungeon exploration, battle scenes that take so god-damn-long to get started (do we really need a thirty second pan of the fighting arena?) redundant ATB gauges that take far too long to fill, irritating enemies, level grind, the same battle over again and again, level grind, boss fight, boss fight. Another example of overrated Final Fantasy bilge.… Expand
  55. 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
  56. JudgeMathew
    Jan 11, 2014
    10
    While it seems that it's more simplistic and not has challenging as previous Final Fantasy titles, there's no doubt that it is the most magical and enjoyable there is. Story is original and contains much involvement with all of the playable and non-playable characters to make the world seem more real. This causes a definite connection between the player and the game. Final Fantasy IX alsoWhile it seems that it's more simplistic and not has challenging as previous Final Fantasy titles, there's no doubt that it is the most magical and enjoyable there is. Story is original and contains much involvement with all of the playable and non-playable characters to make the world seem more real. This causes a definite connection between the player and the game. Final Fantasy IX also contains some of most impressive graphics on the original Sony Play-Station along with one of the greatest video-game soundtracks of all time.… Expand
  57. 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.
  58. Fabian-Gonzalo
    Dec 19, 2013
    10
    When I received my Ps one in 2001 I was 13 years old, the only game that came with it was Final Fantasy IX, I started playing, I didn't realized that this game would become the best game that I've ever played until now, I have played, Nintento,Snes,PS2 and PS3, I've played many games, but I do not know why I haven't felt the same emotion anymore. masterpiece with all the word,When I received my Ps one in 2001 I was 13 years old, the only game that came with it was Final Fantasy IX, I started playing, I didn't realized that this game would become the best game that I've ever played until now, I have played, Nintento,Snes,PS2 and PS3, I've played many games, but I do not know why I haven't felt the same emotion anymore. masterpiece with all the word, Story,sound,music,characters,graphics, this game is perfection, no more than that. if you haven't played it yet, go for it!… Expand
  59. 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!
  60. Chymos
    Nov 10, 2013
    10
    I remember being 12 years old. I was given this game from my parents as a birthday gift. I remember putting the game into the console and thinking: "I'm just going to try it a little while, see what it is at least". Little did I know that this game was going to take me on the biggest, coolest, bravest and most emotional journey of my life. I was so baffled how a game could be so awesome,I remember being 12 years old. I was given this game from my parents as a birthday gift. I remember putting the game into the console and thinking: "I'm just going to try it a little while, see what it is at least". Little did I know that this game was going to take me on the biggest, coolest, bravest and most emotional journey of my life. I was so baffled how a game could be so awesome, going through hours upon hours of continuous gaming just to understand the story and experience the finale. When it finally struck I cried like a little baby for so long. The first time I ever cried because of a game. So many feelings embraced me and it was almost too much. Everything was just not fair for being over but still all too perfect. I remember every single event and character like it was a journey I actually went through in real life as a little kid. Please take me back to those moments and memories. Please take me back to that place.

    I remember that song "The Place I'll Return to Someday". Maybe I will return to that place someday. 10/10.    … Expand
  61. 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
  62. Rox22
    Sep 11, 2013
    9
    FF 9 is my favorite FF game so far.

    Beautiful animation. Lovely characters (not sure about Quina.) Great plot, at least up until the final battle which is a little weird. I really can not think of a single bad thing to say about this game. It embodies everything that is Final Fantasy. But if I had to mention a few minor issues I would say that the game is generally far too easy, at    FF 9 is my favorite FF game so far.

    Beautiful animation. Lovely characters (not sure about Quina.) Great plot, at least up until the final battle which is a little weird.

    I really can not think of a single bad thing to say about this game. It embodies everything that is Final Fantasy. But if I had to mention a few minor issues I would say that the game is generally far too easy, at least when you compare it to the rest of the series. Also, the weird "out-of-nowhere" final boss.

    Overall:
    FF 9 is light hearted, fun, full of adventure and everything I want out of a FF game.    … Expand
  63. Orctownorc
    Aug 22, 2013
    6
    A "role playing game" for four year olds, with a protagonist who looks like a monkey playing in a world where everyone looks like a monkey, jumping about like an assortment of zoo animals. Full to the brim with upgradeable skills to addict the completionist in everyone and your classic oversentimental JRPG plot lines so that everyone can 'role play" being 4 years old again and crying whenA "role playing game" for four year olds, with a protagonist who looks like a monkey playing in a world where everyone looks like a monkey, jumping about like an assortment of zoo animals. Full to the brim with upgradeable skills to addict the completionist in everyone and your classic oversentimental JRPG plot lines so that everyone can 'role play" being 4 years old again and crying when mummy yelled at you. The game mechanics are well designed, the music is good and 'as a game' its brilliant if you are suitably young at heart or still wearing diapers.

    THE GROT REVIEW CRITERIA: After a long time writing reviews like an anus, think its time to set a few bad habits straight: Stop insulting designers. Show some respect for the design process and getting games in circulation. Hence (1) No Red scores. (2) Game scores as follows: Bad Game 5/10. Poor Game 6/10. Mediocre Game: 7/10. Good Game 8/10. Great game 9/10. Stella Game 10/10. To get 10/10 it must be a game that can be (theoretically) play-able for 1000+ hours. Not only great but near endless fun. Games may be bad or poor but making them should earn respect. Thus even the worst POS will still be a 5/10. 0/10 no longer exists in my vocabulary. Yellow is the new red. For the sake of accountability: you can reply if needed: Orctowngrot: Tim Rawlins: timtimjp@yahoo.com    … Expand
  64. GeekusPrimus
    Aug 21, 2013
    9
    This is a wonderful game. I'm not sure it's my favorite Final Fantasy, although it certainly ties for the top spot. The characters, particularly Vivi and Steiner, are interesting and lovable, and the story, albeit a bit cliched in areas, is fun and entertaining. A lot of people felt the combat was a little slow, but I never had any real problems with it. I enjoy the more strategic feelThis is a wonderful game. I'm not sure it's my favorite Final Fantasy, although it certainly ties for the top spot. The characters, particularly Vivi and Steiner, are interesting and lovable, and the story, albeit a bit cliched in areas, is fun and entertaining. A lot of people felt the combat was a little slow, but I never had any real problems with it. I enjoy the more strategic feel gained from returning to the class-based gameplay, but I do miss the freedom of skill manipulation present in Final Fantasy VII and VIII. That said, even in 2013, the game is still attractive. It has aged very well, especially in comparison to its Playstation brothers, FFVII and VIII. The art style is vivid and fun, which contrasts to the dark and gritty style present in some of the other 3D Final Fantasies. This art style is reflected throughout the entire game, which seems cheerful and lighthearted most of the time, but it still manages to feel dramatic and suspenseful at its climax.
    That being said, the game is not without its problems. Even though the somewhat linear beginning opens up, the game doesn't really provide much of an incentive for exploration outside of the chocobo quest. There are really only a few areas you don't visit in the main quest of the game, and areas outside of the main continent are strangely barren and empty. There are multiple sidequests in the game, but most of them are expected to be done (and should be done) alongside the main quest. Attempting to complete them all at once is very tedious and time consuming. I'll blame most of this on the size limit of CDs, since most of the space was probably taken by the large number of cutscenes and detailed backdrops. The game was already four discs in its original incarnation, but it would be nice to have some extra dungeons to explore and goodies to find.
    That being said, I can't recommend this game highly enough. It's a wonderful game, and it looking back on it thirteen years after its release, it represents one of Square's last titles before deciding all games needed to be action RPGs with bad voice acting and convoluted stories revolving around characters wearing ridiculous costumes laden with ridiculous numbers of zippers and buckles. It is certainly the most underrated and forgotten game of the series (perhaps caused by being released so late in the Playstation's life cycle), which is certainly a shame for such a fine title. Do yourself a favor and play this game. Purchase it on the Playstation Store, or hit up Ebay for a used Playstation and a copy of this game. You won't regret it.    … Expand
  65. 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
  66. zeniff
    Jul 18, 2013
    10
    One of the few games I have played through multiple times. This was the first FF game I played and it got me hooked on the franchise. Story is great and character development is great and the battle system is a ton of fun. The Open world feel was one of the best things.
  67. 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
  68. Frioniel
    Jun 6, 2013
    10
    Final Fantasy IX is the pinnacle of gaming. It's the perfect example of elements coming together to make what I consider to be the greatest game of all time. Although it's hard to say one part is better than another perhaps the most wonderful aspect is it's story. It's Disney-esque story, simple yet mature, able to appeal to anyone who puts time into it. The Characters are a balancedFinal Fantasy IX is the pinnacle of gaming. It's the perfect example of elements coming together to make what I consider to be the greatest game of all time. Although it's hard to say one part is better than another perhaps the most wonderful aspect is it's story. It's Disney-esque story, simple yet mature, able to appeal to anyone who puts time into it. The Characters are a balanced utterly lovable group, all with unique pasts, personalities, and motivations. The soundtrack is huge, and every track is worth listening to again and again, every track fits naturally where it plays. Rather than detract from the experience, the cartoon like graphics add to it in more ways than can be described. And the gameplay strikes the perfect balance… Expand
  69. Runa
    Apr 25, 2013
    7
    It is one of the best Final Fantasy. He have some funny moments in the game. He have a good graphic and sound. But the history is the only i don't like at 100%.
  70. 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
  71. 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
  72. Wyze
    Mar 16, 2013
    10
    Last masterpiece of Square...
  73. 6xdandangp
    Dec 29, 2012
    10
    One of the best games in both the series and the genre. The story, characters, graphics, and soundtrack are all some of the best I've experienced in my life. My biggest complaint is that the ATB gauge could fill up a lot faster, as some battles are unnecessarily long. However, that's just me being (extremely) nitpicky.
  74. Kenmei
    Oct 15, 2012
    10
    Easily the best Final Fantasy that came out on the PS1 and one of my favorite games of all time. When compared to the other two numbered FF games on the PS1, this one easily had the best characters and character development, the best story and some great music. The characters themselves are really a treat here and when you compare Zidane to the other main characters of Cloud and Squall,Easily the best Final Fantasy that came out on the PS1 and one of my favorite games of all time. When compared to the other two numbered FF games on the PS1, this one easily had the best characters and character development, the best story and some great music. The characters themselves are really a treat here and when you compare Zidane to the other main characters of Cloud and Squall, there really isn't any comparison. While Cloud and Squall are both melodrama angst ridden whiners, Zidane starts off as the goofy joking light-hearted character who goes through constant trials and tribulations that seem to follow him. And while not all the characters are as in-depth as he is, the rest of the cast all have their moments that really make you care about them and their futures. The story can get a little off track toward the end and some of the sci-fi elements that pop up at the end of the game really don't belong in a medieval setting like this one, but it's still one of the best plots in FF history. The battle system is VERY slow compared to FF VII and VIII and that can take quite awhile to get used too. Things slow down quite a bit and for the people who played 7 and 8 before this one, probably won't like it too much. You will have 1 more person in your party to worry about though so things aren't totally bad. The worst part is the fact that, while you end up with 8 characters you can choose from, you don't get the full roster of 8 to choose from till about 75% into the game, making leveling some of the characters you haven't seen in ages a bit tiresome. Plus the fact that some of those characters end up playing a fairly big role in the story make back tracking almost a necessity in some parts. However, the game is not that hard. You won't have to do much grinding over the course of the game to get by the regular mobs and bosses that pop up. I guess I'm a bit biased when it comes to this game but it's easily the most underrated FF game of all time and one that doesn't get enough of the credit that FF VII seems to get in spades. I'll always say this game was 10 times better than FF VII and nothing will ever change my mind. This game is easily purchased nowadays on the PSN so if you have any sort of Sony console, handheld or not, then your doing yourself an injustice by not buying this game.… Expand
  75. CarterSJ
    Oct 4, 2012
    9
    Definitely in my top 5, but I'm not sure it's the best. I love the characters and story. Plus the gameplay is vastly improved over previous PSX FF titles.
  76. Blackazure
    Oct 3, 2012
    10
    Best final fantasy ever, great story, great character, great gameplay,.. everything that define the greatness of RPG is in this game... this game was a masterpiece of PS1 game.
  77. chronoT
    Sep 5, 2012
    9
    I am a big FF fan, having played pretty much every one with the exception of that sorry excuse of an MMORPG. Final Fantasy IX is truly one of the funnest games in the series. The story is great and presented very well, with awesome cut scenes for its time. The game is challenging yet rewarding, there are hundreds if not thousands of spells/abilities your characters can learn. This thoughI am a big FF fan, having played pretty much every one with the exception of that sorry excuse of an MMORPG. Final Fantasy IX is truly one of the funnest games in the series. The story is great and presented very well, with awesome cut scenes for its time. The game is challenging yet rewarding, there are hundreds if not thousands of spells/abilities your characters can learn. This though is where I must make a note: Sometimes it's hard to learn all the abilities from a weapon before it is rendered useless because you find and need a stronger weapon. Be careful with this, don't sell items before your done learning all the spells they provide. This game TOTALLY 100% feels like a Final Fantasy game, the music, characters, and the world are all wonderfully made and makes for an epic adventure. Also, the card game is extremely fun and rewarding to play as well, IMO it is improved from FF8. There is a lot of content in this game, it will take you a good 30-40 hours to beat and there are many secrets to get afterwards that are worth doing and add a lot of game time.… Expand
  78. Regal4point1
    Jul 31, 2012
    9
    Definitely the definitive Final Fantasy. It knows the formula and near perfects it for one last hurrah. The art design, world, gameplay, party, antagonist, soundtrack, and every other element of this game is the culmination of all the work before it, creating one enchanting game.
  79. moonman1994
    Jul 15, 2012
    7
    The strongest aspect of Final Fantasy IX is it's story. The characters are good and the story draws you in and motivates you to continue playing the game. Also the game has an amazing musical score. (One of the best I've heard.) Also the mini game in Final Fantasy IX is a lot more fun than the one in Final Fantasy VIII. The draw backs to this game are that it's short. It's a lot shorterThe strongest aspect of Final Fantasy IX is it's story. The characters are good and the story draws you in and motivates you to continue playing the game. Also the game has an amazing musical score. (One of the best I've heard.) Also the mini game in Final Fantasy IX is a lot more fun than the one in Final Fantasy VIII. The draw backs to this game are that it's short. It's a lot shorter than Final Fantasy VII or Final Fantasy VIII and it's less challenging. Also the graphics are a down grade from the graphics in Final Fantasy VIII. Over all Final Fantasy IX is a good game but it's not the as good as it's predecessors.… Expand
  80. pookie
    Jun 28, 2012
    10
    Perfect. Interesting cast of characters, good storyline, beautiful visuals and music. FFIX seems lighter than FF7 and FF8. The absence of the the materia and junction system help. Character stats and skills are easier to achieve and or much more linear. The battles focus on old school job classes. This Final Fantasy is probably my favorite. Such a Charming little game.
  81. AdamHeauser
    Jun 6, 2012
    10
    An absolutely amazing game with great graphics, wonderful character development and a very beautiful and engrossing story. I don't think recommend this game enough.
  82. wesker2012
    May 27, 2012
    10
    My favorite final fantasy. This game is just amazing. MASTERPIECE.
  83. 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
  84. Dezuuu
    Apr 4, 2012
    10
    The definitive Final Fantasy game. It has good story, very likeable characters, great gameplay-mechanics, amazing graphics and an even more amazing soundtrack.
    Unlike VII and VIII, it's doesn't have a futuristic style, but takes a lot from the old games.
    Once again there's castles, character-specific classes, and crystals. This old style is realized very well in 3D, for the first time.    The definitive Final Fantasy game. It has good story, very likeable characters, great gameplay-mechanics, amazing graphics and an even more amazing soundtrack.
    Unlike VII and VIII, it's doesn't have a futuristic style, but takes a lot from the old games.

    Once again there's castles, character-specific classes, and crystals. This old style is realized very well in 3D, for the first time.

    This is the best game to start with if you're new to the franchise, because it has the best of everything this series has to offer.    … Expand
  85. Carlitoxic
    Mar 21, 2012
    8
    The last Final Fantasy for the PlayStation is a beautiful tale with precious melodies. FFIX returns to the origins with spectacular visuals. It is one of the best Final Fantasy.
  86. Tripe4Life
    Mar 17, 2012
    10
    This is definitely the most underrated gem that Squaresoft ever produced, but it's also my personal favorite in the series of games. The fact that it's so underrated and underappreciated is sad, because this game is bucketloads better than Final Fantasy 7. And here's why: This game is the first game since Final Fantasy 6 where I actually gave two craps about the characters. Every castThis is definitely the most underrated gem that Squaresoft ever produced, but it's also my personal favorite in the series of games. The fact that it's so underrated and underappreciated is sad, because this game is bucketloads better than Final Fantasy 7. And here's why: This game is the first game since Final Fantasy 6 where I actually gave two craps about the characters. Every cast member in this game is very solid, having more shades to them than just one, and sometimes even having very wonderfully done backstories. Also, this game holds the trump card for the best villain the series has ever produced. Kuja puts even Kefka to shame. He is simply the most complex villain I have ever seen, and not because he looks like a chick but is actually a dude. The villain is the biggest case of "Do not judge a book by it's cover" because while Kuja may look very feminine, this guy is actually a boss. Like I said before, he is the most complex villain in the series, not like Kefka who, while silly, sort of has a one-track mind on destruction and chaos, and most definitely not like Sephiroth, who has no emotions to speak of. Kuja has class and sophistication, more often than not speaking in very poetic lines and putting even some of the big **** like Brahne, to shame. But, as the case of "Do not judge a book by it's cover goes", this guy definitely has the biggest breakdown of any villain, completely destroying an entire world in one murderous rampage. But, other than the characters, this game also looks very grand and very nice. The settings are wonderfully victorian, having been set in the 1800's during the said victorian era, even though Gaia is a completely different world entirely, and the character art, while some may consider a turnoff, is probably some of the best I've ever seen. Hideo Minaba has a very chibi-ish look to his characters, and I think it's very original in terms of Final Fantasy. And, probably the biggest reason of why I love this game, the soundtrack is just straight up awesome. It's certainly one of Nobuo Uematsu's best works ever. My reasoning for THIS is that, while 90% of the Final Fantasy games have that one song where Uematsu goes beastmode and completely goes above and beyond in a specific piece, (4 being "Four Feinds", 6 being "Dancing Mad", 7 being "Crazy Motorcycle", and 8 being "The Landing") Final Fantasy IX has for of these said songs: "Blades of Fury", "Wavering Blade", "Silver Dragon", and "Dark Messenger". As for the final tangent, the story, it feels more like a Shakespearean tale rather than a Final Fantasy one. Also, while people think that Necron, the final boss, came out of nowhere and is one of the biggest letdowns of a final boss, I think that this character had more story than people let on, due to the fact that it is actually implied that due to the break of the Crystal which holds all order in Gaia, Necron is spawned. So, with that mindset, I feel that Necron, far from being an unnecessary final boss, is actually very symbolic. But, if you need one more reason as to why I feel it's the best, Hironobu Sakaguchi, the creator of this famous legacy, has called Final Fantasy IX his personal favorite FF game as well.

    So, as a final say, this game is perfect in my eyes. I love every second of it and recommend it to anyone and everyone.    … Expand
  87. MadResistance
    Feb 19, 2012
    7
    A fairly average Final Fantasy game, Final Fantasy IX has for the PS1, gorgeous scenery, a solidly enjoyable story that doesn't require you to look up mountains of lore elsewhere and impressive music. Where it fails however, is a lack of gameplay (akin to a transition of Final Fantasy games becoming movies) where you'll be mashing X to get through the text because the characters areA fairly average Final Fantasy game, Final Fantasy IX has for the PS1, gorgeous scenery, a solidly enjoyable story that doesn't require you to look up mountains of lore elsewhere and impressive music. Where it fails however, is a lack of gameplay (akin to a transition of Final Fantasy games becoming movies) where you'll be mashing X to get through the text because the characters are talking about crap, a lack of direction for those who do not know where to go and you'll also find that the characters and world is full of annoying, corny ****… Expand
  88. muzziklover
    Dec 30, 2011
    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. Sadly, to me, this is the last great Final Fantasy game because after that, it was just a mix bag for me. Final Fantasy X story, even though it was epic, was very plot-hole ridden and had a ridiculously annoying protagonist but the combat was one of the best in the series. XII followed suit of X's bad habits with its story as well and the combat, though very different, was a hit and miss but the characters were quite fun. XIII just sucks ass. I'm digressing. IX is a Playstation gem. If you have all the Playstations, this game is a must get. I consider it the last great Final Fantasy game though I do hope that Square Enix could finally capture the greatness of the old Final Fantasy games in the future.… Expand
  89. Mutto
    Dec 1, 2011
    10
    A throwback to how things used to be. Specific classes for characters instead of carbon copy characters. Fantasy based setting. 4 man party. Packs an absolutely amazing soundtrack as well. The story has extreme depth and some unexpected twists in it. Plus, the villain is probably the most developed villain of any previous game. A must buy for any true FF fan.
  90. Kefkiroth
    Nov 28, 2011
    10
    Simply amazing FF, quite an underrated gem.
    You rarely ever get a clever and **** protagonist in Zidane. The music is amazing, too. The combat can be a little slow sometimes, but the story contains a lot of charm and humor in it that other FF games didn't have.
  91. DBZ19
    Nov 28, 2011
    8
    it was a pretty good game. Had many great hours.
  92. NyreX
    Nov 22, 2011
    10
    What a legendary game. I don't know how many times i finished that game, i just had to do everything to really finish it. It really deserve a high score, i can feel the ''Fantasy'' in that game.
  93. 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, you could make great games in past... Now look at yourselves...
  94. 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.
  95. RPGROB
    Oct 14, 2011
    10
    The biggest mistake I ever made was waiting 11 years to play this game. It has everything you could want in an RPG. Mini games, a lengthy story, lots of beautiful cutscenes. The pre-rendered graphics are beautiful and make the game look like an interactive piece of art. The 3D graphics are comparable to Final Fantasy VIII, but the overworld looks terrible. Even the overworld in FinalThe biggest mistake I ever made was waiting 11 years to play this game. It has everything you could want in an RPG. Mini games, a lengthy story, lots of beautiful cutscenes. The pre-rendered graphics are beautiful and make the game look like an interactive piece of art. The 3D graphics are comparable to Final Fantasy VIII, but the overworld looks terrible. Even the overworld in Final Fantasy VII looked good. This isn't really a problem, since the game doesn't force you to travel long distances in the overworld. I immediately fell in love with the characters. The pacing is excellent, and well into the second disc the game will continually be switching your parties for coinciding stories. It's very fun to see how they connect. I heard this game was easy, but I found it pretty challenging. I guess it's easy only if you spend hours leveling up before story events. One of my favorite things is tetra master in this game. It's a card minigame you can play with many different npcs. Minigames are always a welcome addition to an RPG, as they break the monotony of just killing. 4 discs shows how long this game is. It's great fun.… Expand
  96. BlacksitePSU
    Oct 6, 2011
    10
    Final Fantasy IX mixes the best of the old with the new. Beautiful visuals accompany a deep and compelling story with a cast of memorable characters that help elevate the title to the very top of the Final Fantasy franchise in terms of quality game design.
  97. 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 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.
  98. Samus
    Jul 31, 2011
    10
    I can't understand the obsession with wanting a more "mature" Final Fantasy. FFXIII tried to be more mature and as a result was basically just boring. As FF7 was my first experience with the series I didn't grow up with the earlier instalments. Despite this I would still say that FF9 is possibly my favourite. I have since become familiar with FF9's reference points and they only serve toI can't understand the obsession with wanting a more "mature" Final Fantasy. FFXIII tried to be more mature and as a result was basically just boring. As FF7 was my first experience with the series I didn't grow up with the earlier instalments. Despite this I would still say that FF9 is possibly my favourite. I have since become familiar with FF9's reference points and they only serve to make the game even more enjoyable. If it weren't for the awful trance system it would be an almost perfect game, but as it seems that everyone else in the world can overlook FFVIII's levelling and draw system I guess this isn't such a big deal. Finally, it's Hironobu Sakaguchi's favourite. What more do you want?!… Expand
  99. ArkonBlade
    Jul 12, 2011
    4
    wow im amazed this got so many positive reviews . this is the first FF game in the series i did not care for . the cutesey moronic graphic style really turned me off but i plodded through and beat the game . the story didnt do much for me eather even though Vivi was kinda intresting not much about what was going on hooked me. im tryin to remember the story more since its been 10 years orwow im amazed this got so many positive reviews . this is the first FF game in the series i did not care for . the cutesey moronic graphic style really turned me off but i plodded through and beat the game . the story didnt do much for me eather even though Vivi was kinda intresting not much about what was going on hooked me. im tryin to remember the story more since its been 10 years or so since i beat this . i do remember how freekin annoyed i was about the back attacks and the pincer attacks which i swear to god happend like 50% of the time . i kid you not i do remember i had that happen 13X in a ROW.and just wanted to spike my controller into the TV. then your main charicter looks like a metrosexaul monkey which i just hated how he looked and him personally . about the only possitive thing is you can have 4 players in your party . i really dont even know how or why i finished this game . my guess was that it was sqaure at the time who back then almost every RPG they made was GOLD . this certainly is not.… Expand
  100. ImUnavailable
    Jun 24, 2011
    10
    As someone who has played every main series FF title, I can safely say that IX is the quintessential Final Fantasy game. VII and VIII marked a new direction for the series into sci-fi territory. IX sees the return of old-style kingdoms and mystical crystals that defined the first six games. In fact, it could be said that IX is a love letter to those games while also sporting the kind ofAs someone who has played every main series FF title, I can safely say that IX is the quintessential Final Fantasy game. VII and VIII marked a new direction for the series into sci-fi territory. IX sees the return of old-style kingdoms and mystical crystals that defined the first six games. In fact, it could be said that IX is a love letter to those games while also sporting the kind of visuals that those games could not have. The diverse cast of characters are well developed and likable. Some may say that the story begins in a rather cliched fashion but the game seems fully aware of this and revels in it. The aforementioned beginning is merely a setup for a moving story about purpose and existence. Despite dark themes, the game is never bogged down by the kind of melodrama that affected its last two predecessors. This is thanks in part to its cheery and virtuous protagonist, a far cry from the distant Cloud and brooding Squall, and more in line with Bartz and Locke from FFV and VI respectively. The world is beautiful and sprawling, with plenty of sidequests and mini-games. This game has charm, emotion and humor and to me is one of the best JRPG's ever made. A masterpiece.… Expand
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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.
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