Yeah, they are Though I loved VIII's story, system, FMVs and music, I found IX AMAZING! I mean, it's definitely in my top three (along with XII and VI). It had a great atmosphere, the characters were very varied and likable (I liked the characters of VIII as well) and even though it was rather light-hearted, it touched some big themes (identity, life and death and so on...). FFIX RULEZ!