This one might have slipped under some radars but it’s worth noting that a North American release of Final Fantasy 9 has been confirmed, though no release date has yet been announced. While Wikipedia has a North American release date of June 15th I could find no link or source to corroborate. Comparing the length of time between the Japanese and North American release for 7 and 8, however, makes a good case for a July or August release. While the news is not really surprising, considering FF7 and FF8 have both made it onto PSN, it is reassuring for those who like to go back and enjoy classic RPGs from the comfort of the couch now and again.
Cast of Final Fantasy IX
FF9 was a return to an older formula of Final Fantasy; a small oasis of retro goodness, for some, and reminder of why change is good for others. The art style was much more reminiscent of older Final Fantasy titles while the mechanics themselves were a bit of a hybrid between the old (16bit titles) and the (then) new. Story-wise, FF9 really broke free of the ‘quiet, silent type’ mold it had cast its heroes from in prior titles and focused more on the outgoing and actually tolerable Zidane. Of course, Square hasn’t managed to get it’s heroes to stay quiet since. Tidus, I’m looking at you.
If you passed on this one the first time through, and still consider yourself a Final Fantasy fan, you may want to pick it up. I confess that I didn’t finish it until many years after my initial play-through but, assuming it will sell for the same price as FF7 and 8, it should be worth every cent.
Via PlayStation Blog
The author Vassi, is still waiting for a good sci-fi game that isn't Star Wars.
I will definitely be picking this one up.. Only played 9 the first time around for a few hours then my launch ps2 consumed me and i eventually forgot about it and traded it.. Now its time to redeem myself and finish it!
Hah, I was more or less in the same boat. I got FF9 late so by the time I was near the end I had gotten a PS2 and the (then awesome) Oni just consumed me.
It hit the EU store this week fellas, so I’ll warrant you’ll see it stateside before too long. I’m pleased because I also didn’t finish the game. Heck, I’d barely started it by the time my shiny new PS2 came along and poor FF9 got left by the wayside. This was the last final fantasy to have a genuine world map to explore. 10 was an incredible let-down for me. I’ll be playing this on my PSP.
I can confirm it has the same price point as 7 & 8 too.
If you were waiting for it you probably know, but it’s been officially released on the U.S. PSN store as of last week, June 15th. Go go go.