First, I'd like to start talking about something that I always have running through my mind...Top ____ Lists. Over the coming weeks, I'll explain my top 5 JRPGs...which I'll admit, is hard to do, considering that their order changes constantly. This will be in NO certain order, so don't take the numbering to mean too much. ;)
So, without further ado...
1. Final Fantasy IX (2000/Playstation)
I don't think I have ever had an experience with a video game that was as engrossing and engaging as the one that I had when I first played through Final Fantasy IX. Coming from the cyberpunk-esque nature of Final Fantasy VII to the romantically-charged Final Fantasy VIII, we really had no idea what would be coming next; yet, we ended up with something that managed to blend the gameplay evolution from the other two PSX games with the classic RPG charm from the first six Final Fantasies.
IX had it all. Nobuo Uematsu composed the game's refreshing soundtrack, which strayed from the more futuristic, synth-filled tracks from the previous two sequels, and focused more on a balance between a more traditional sound and the previous few soundtracks. The game borrowed many themes and music from previous games and reworked them to the point where the music was still original and refreshing. Uematsu has even said that his soundtrack for IX was his favorite composition for a Final Fantasy game. The game managed to have music that blended almost everything that was memorable about Final Fantasy music.
The graphics, which by today's standards are still passable, also derived from the previous two iterations by creating more of a "chibi" (or cartoon-styled) feel throughout the game. Due to the original Playstation's 3D rendering, this style translated a lot better than the walking blocks of Final Fantasy VII or the more detailed models in Final Fantasy VIII. Pre-rendered backgrounds in SD-era games really don't get better than they do in this game. The character designs managed to reflect the cartoony style without becoming too simple or childish. The general art direction, which also moved away from the previous, futuristic settings, opted for the traditional castles and wilderness. It was a huge breath of fresh air compared to the last two games.
However, the best part was the game itself. Everything was there. Nobuo's composition, the retro art direction, classic ATB System, and a story that did not disappoint. The gameplay, which was focused on the ATB System, was enhanced by the Abilities system that allowed characters to gain new moves and effects from the equipment they were wearing. Luckily, this system resembled the Materia system from VII and managed to keep the game from breaking, which VIII's Junctioning system managed to do (what kind of RPG makes grinding pointless? FFXIII?). You had your standard job classes: Thief, White Mage, Warrior, Black Mage, Red Mage, Blue Mage, Ninja, and Summoner. It didn't get too complicated and everything flowed, blending the enhancements of the past eight games, while staying true to the traditional JRPG turn-based formula. The game is FUN.
Finally, the story brought it all together. You've got a group of characters that are distinct and well developed, in a world that's extremely detailed and lively. Each of the characters follow a flowing arc of progression, and the ending of the story is my favorite ending of any Final Fantasy game. It just brings a smile to your face, and it's pretty much a perfect ending. It's a classic fantasy tale that keeps you laughing and crying for the 40-50 hours you'll spend playing it. I've not only replayed this game numerous times, but I've also watched others replay this game numerous times. Regardless of how many times I've seen it, the ending never fails to produce a tear or two for me. Part of it may be nostalgia, but there's no denying that this game is a charm-ridden ride through JRPG past and present. If you haven't played this gem, go ahead and do it!
