Final Fantasy IX features many missable items and Key Items, including regular treasures in areas that become inaccessible. Collecting these treasures is crucial for obtaining the Rank S Medal later in the game. This guide highlights missable items and key story progression points, such as acquiring the Moogle's Flute and specific auction house items like Dark Matter and the Rat Tail.
Treasure collection begins immediately. Missing too many items can prevent you from earning the Rank S Medal. Follow the walkthrough to pick up items as indicated. For those aiming for the ultimate Knight Sword, the PG Guide details what to collect immediately versus what can wait until the endgame.
Key Item Acquisition & Story Progression
- Moogle's Flute: Received after a forced ATE with two Moogles in a swamp. This Key Item allows you to call Moguo to save or use a Tent on the World Map (press Square).
- Mayor's Key: Used to open a locked door near the windmill, leading to a chocobo and valuable items.
- Elixir: Found in a chest on the southern end of the windmill's top, accessible via a plank near the ladder.
- 30,000 Gil: Located in an enclosed area after using the Mayor's Key.
- Burman Coffee: Found under a chest in the same enclosed area, completing the "Rare Coffees" side quest.
- Dark Matter: Available at the Treno Auction House for around 19,000 Gil. This item is the only way to teach Dagger the Odin summon outside of defeating the game's superboss.
- Rat Tail: Purchased at the Treno Auction House for about 17,000 Gil. It can be sold to the Adventurer near the Bishop's House for 25,000 Gil if you refuse his first offer.
- Wyerd Card: Found in a slightly hidden chest on the northern end of the Serpent's Gate area in Lindblum Castle.
- Tent: Located to the right of the doorway exit at Dragon's Gate, near Moonte the moogle.
- Promist Ring & Thief Gloves: New items available at the Treno Auction House later in the game. The Thief Gloves are particularly useful for Zidane, teaching the Master Thief ability for easier rare item stealing.
- Sagittarius Stellazzio: Can be dropped off for 20,000 Gil.
Chocobo Hot & Cold is a mini-game where Choco digs for items. Each play costs 60 Gil and lasts one minute. Choco's expression (Kweh) indicates proximity to treasure. Found items have point values that can be traded with Mene. As Choco digs more, his beak strengthens, increasing digging speed. The enhanced versions of the game include a "Follow Your Nose" trophy/achievement for leveling Chocobo's beak to 99.