By the time I bought this game, Final Fantasy 9 was out already, so I missed all the hype.  That being said, I had no expectations coming into this game.  I was not disappointed, except for how difficult and confusing the junctioning and drawing system of magic was.  If you like being able to cast magic whenever you want, based on a learned ability, don't play this game.  This game is cruel at times.  The graphics ARE good for their time, but often look like crumpled paper dolls.  It has a good, intensive storyline, however, and has good replay value.