Back in 2000 when Final Fantasy IX was first released, fans loved the game for its memorable characters and intrepid story (it happens to be one of my personal favourites in the series, too). 16 years later, the timeless classic has been re-released on Steam, but not just a basic re-release; it also got a bit of a face lift, too!
To start, Square Enix announced last week various features included in the re-launch include:
- Full Steam Trading cards
- New cloud save feature allows players to back up save data to play across other compatible devices
- Auto save function
- Seven all-new optional booster features, including high speed mode and no encounter mode, which will allow players to automatically master equipped weapons and gear, as well as maximize character levels, magic stone counts and gil (currency).
On top of that, the game boasts some upgrade graphics to character models and high-definition video cut scenes. I don’t know if you’ve done a side-by-side comparison (screenshot below) but daaaaaaayum.
Huge difference! Not only are the texture maps higher resolution, but it looks like some care was taken into actually remodeling to add more definition.
In case you didn’t see it, check out the announcement trailer below for a peek into the high definition goodness.
Long-time fans and those new to the franchise can pick this title up on Steam for $16.79 CAD until April 20th, afterwards it will return to its regular — not much higher! — $20.99 price. Still very likely worth it, regardless. Find it here: Final Fantasy IX on Steam.
Kate Rhiannon is a Contributing Editor-at-Large and Graphics Artist for AYBOnline.com, and a producer for the Level 1 Scrubs podcast. Her opinions are her own. Feel free to follow her on Twitter and Facebook, where she posts updates about her creative projects!
