FFIX is an excellent classical take on the JRPG genre. They really refined the PS1 graphics at this point so it looks and runs great, the battle system is well-done and gives you incentives to use weaker items, and the story and characters are both extremely endearing.

It suffers from pacing issues particularly around the beginning and middle of the game, and the battle system can be pretty slow. Also, some party characters needed some more time in the limelight.

That said, strong recommend to any JRPG fan and an absolute must-play if you loved the NES/SNES era of Final Fantasy.