You know, I felt IX was well hated too until I joined this forum. Even looking through a few other forums I must say the general consensus is that IX was a good game. The only thing that truly varies is how much you like it. I've met more people who are indifferent to IX than I have of people who generally hate it.

As for the lack of save points in III. It wasn't much of a big deal until you get to the Crystal Tower cause the whole final dungeon scenario is LOOOONG... add in the fact that you have six major boss fights and suddenly the idea of being killed in the final battle (Did I mention the Cloud of Darkness is a cheating wench?) becomes really annoying. Even then I still don't consider it a bad point cause I was able to get through most of the game with little problem.

In hindsight... I should have added X-2.