Beginner Tips & Tricks

Beginner Tips & Tricks

Final Fantasy IX features many missable items, skills, and Key Items. Pay close attention to alerts throughout this guide. Deciding early if you will pursue the ultimate Knight Sword, Excalibur II, is crucial, as it requires completing the game in under 12 hours. This guide can assist, but consider skipping sidequests and fast-scrolling dialogue to save time.

Missable Item Alert #1

While the game has just begun, it's important to consider missable items from the outset. The most significant early decision is whether to aim for Excalibur II. This powerful Knight Sword is exceptionally difficult to acquire, demanding completion of the game's final dungeon in under 12 hours of game time. For first-time players, ignoring this challenge is often advised. If you choose to pursue it, prioritize time-saving actions such as skipping FMVs, bypassing sidequests, and rapidly advancing through dialogue. Atomos199's Excalibur II Perfect Game Guide on GameFAQs offers detailed strategies for obtaining the sword while maintaining a perfect game. This walkthrough can also be used, but remember to constantly look for opportunities to reduce your in-game clock.

Kidnap Mission: Planning the Heist

The game begins with an opening FMV. Normal enemy tips are in the Enemy List, while bosses and special fixed encounters are detailed as they appear in the walkthrough.