Final Fantasy IX
Final Fantasy IX

Game Clock & Speedrun Mechanics

Master Final Fantasy IX's Game Clock and speedrun mechanics. Learn about ATEs and Tetra Master tournament strategies for efficient play.

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Game Clock & Speedrun Mechanics

Final Fantasy IX features a game clock that tracks playtime, which is relevant for certain speedrun challenges and achievements. The game also includes various mini-games and side quests that can impact your overall completion time. Understanding the mechanics of ATEs (Active Time Events) and their missable nature is crucial for efficient play.

During your time in Treno, after a short scene, you gain control of Zidane. Two ATEs will pop up: Eiko Talks Life and How He Ended Up Here. At the end of the latter, you face a choice with Vivi: visit home or stay in Treno. Choosing to visit home provides an extra scene, while staying in Treno allows you to win a special card during the Tetra Master tournament. While the card can be obtained later, visiting Vivi's home is recommended for this walkthrough.

If Vivi visits home, ignore him initially to trigger the ATE for doing so while still in Treno. Retrieving Vivi from Quan's Dwelling before this ATE can cause you to miss it. You can also visit the Stellazzio collector north of the Bishop's House. Handing her three new Stellazzio coins rewards you with an Elixir, 10,000 Gil, and a Black Belt. The synthesis shop in Treno offers no new items compared to Alexandria, so a visit is not necessary.

After the sword fight mini-game with Blank, speak to Queen Brahne on the balcony to receive your reward, which should be a Moonstone for impressing 100 nobles. You can also obtain a free Elixir by finding all eight Pluto Knights. The final knight, Breireicht, is found by entering the doorway next to Queen Brahne and heading to the back of the long hallway, then running up the tower stairs. Speak to him repeatedly until he gives you the Elixir. Continue up the tower stairs and go outside to advance the story.

Upon returning to the Prima Vista, Princess Garnet will run inside. Equip the Mage Masher from the Masked Man if you haven't already. Also, equip Zidane with the Moonstone to gain the Beast Killer skill. Abilities in Final Fantasy IX are learned via equipment, not character level-ups.