Technically IX doesn't take too many risks cause it wasn't intented to be a a numbered entry, so it does technically have an excuse on that part. I also feel IX's refinement of so many of the ideas brought up from previous games is pretty cool.

I also find it amusing that despite not being "original" its customization system has been utilized in other games, moreso than the more daring and popular games like VI, VII, VIII, X, and XII...