When it first came out, and I was pretty young, I thought the graphics were the koolie-kool with a freakin' K. It wasn't until I played Metal Gear Solid that I even thought it looked crappy at all. But I said to myself it was much longer than Metal Gear Solid, and a different type of game, so it's not possible. But then VIII and IX came out and I found out it was afterall, not to mention playing Chrono Cross in there which totally blew me away.

Personally, I'd prefer the VIII engine. I think it looks much better. Or better yet, go for the IX sheen, as IX is a ridiculously beautiful game for a playstation title. I don't "mind" the graphics, but that doesn't mean I would say no to them getting a nice gloss up.