Whether the sentiment of the article is correct or not, it isn't really delivering it's point well.

I never connected with IX. Only played it this year and haven't gone through the rigmarole of the final dungeon yet (but I YouTubed the ending video). I don't know if it's because I played it for the first time when it was 'old' or whether I would never have liked it, but it just frustrates me. It might have something to do with Zidane's face, which drives me tizzy with irritation, but think it's deeper than that.

I don't really agree that all the characters were all that well developed. Quina is static throughout, Freya is neglected after Burmecia, Eiko doesn't really change and Zidane, despite the revelations that surround his past, always retains his optimistic, happy-go-lucky nature. Garnet truly matures, from semi-spoilt princess to woman, Amarant learns to be more open with others and Vivi is just awesome. And XII's plot was more mature (although I agree that it did feel a bit soulless).

Gameplay was good, but not particularly revolutionary. Having characters fixed into certain classes is a nice touch, as it forces the trial of combinations, but even if characters are fully customisable, they do tend to fit certain specialised roles. Battle system better than X or X-2? Doubt it.

I like IX, I think it is very cute in many places and it can be good fun. But I would rather play X, X-2, XII or XIII over it. So, in my opinion, IX isn't the last great entry.