Is it just me or was IX a bit "Meh" compared to its to predecesors?

Don't get me wrong, I liked it, but it wasn't in the same league as VII and VIII. Almost as though it was trying too hard, cos the others were effortlessly cool in a sense.

I mean I can be standing on the world map, and it just doesn't feel like the FF I know and love really.

Anyone else agree (or Disagree?)

SS