Erm why was IX so bad compared to those?

Out of I, IV, VII, VIII, IX, X, and Tactics, my favorites would have to be I, IV, and IX.....

Cecil > Cloud
Zidane > Tidus
Ramza > Squall

That's just my opinion though and how I feel.

1. When PS3 comes out millions of people are still going to care about the PS2 because the PS3 won't launch with oodles of games to justify immediate purchase. Also PS2 will have more than enough gaming wise to keep them happy til PS3 becomes established.

2. PS3 has a hefty price tag. This alone will slow its assimilation.

3. FFXII has plenty of time and plenty of ability to become well liked and remembered before anything tries to challenge it.