I Need a New RPG

[FFIX Choco Boy]

Just as the title says, I'm looking for a new RPG to play. I don't want any shooters, I don't want a sandbox game, I want an RPG. I also don't want one with a really complicated system like Disgaea, or like the skill system with Suikoden. I loved the .Hack series, so something similar would be nice. Most Final Fantasies I've played through way too many times, now, though, so they're not really an option, but something like them would still be welcome. Mostly, though, I'm looking for a good story, a steady game progression, and likable characters.

Edit: PS1, PS2, or PC please.