I don't feel IX is overlooked due to it being underrated, VII will simply be remembered a little bit more because it had such a considerably larger impact on the gaming community when it was released.

Regardless I still think IX is one of the best RPG's out there, and thinking back to the great "VII vs. VIII vs. IX" thread, it stands along with VII and VIII as a very special period in RPG's and gaming in general that I think we may never actually be able to get back to. Many don't remember, some were too young, but when it was released, FFIX received hate from only one group - those who didn't play it. Anyone who had a copy at the time couldn't possibly deny its impressive quality of graphics, music, story, gameplay (not so much for some) and most importantly that certain quality that you just can't explain. I consider it the most well-rounded game in the series and the brilliance with which it was all put together is evident with scenes like escaping from the petrified forest, exploring the outer continent, learning the mysteries of Gaea/Terra, everything. I feel sorry for anyone who hasn't had the pleasure of enjoying this game.