I haven't beaten it it yet (I'm on the second disc right now) but from what I've played, this is how it goes---

---Plot::: Excellent. It's really intriguing, and is what keeps me going. IX doesn't disappoint in this area
---Gameplay::: Horrible. I really, really hate it. There's too many random battles. And I don't know if it's just me, but the transition from the fireld, into battle is really really slow. Which makes it worse. But gameplay doesn't matter AT ALL to me. Honestly, it's the very last thing on the list. It's not even on the list.
---Music::: Good. There are a few stabd-out tracks, but that's it. It's all pleasant, but there isn't a lot that makes me stop and put down the controller (with the exception of Kuja's Theme, and a few others)

^Is that it? If I think of anything else, I'll put it in. Disregarding the gameplay, so far, so good. It has great characters; no one too annoying. I highly doubt it'll be my favorite (VIII still holds that title) but it won't be a game that I'll easily forget.

I'll stop now...