Two tricks to beating the game, 1 is the chocobo sidequest, though its like 3-4 hours, its not that bad and is way worth it. The final is VIVI! Get the items I think black robe and another item for vivi...an accessory or something...Whatever, just look up FF9 reflectx2 ability and half mp ability. I tell yea, nothing in that game beats casting flare for just 20 and doing 8k of damage. also get pumice piece for garnet and she may have a half mp item too, not sure though.