The original release of "Final Fantasy IX" is a combination of a memorable cast of heroes, great visual design, impressive graphical technology and an interesting skill system. Now Square Enix has provided a mobile port of "Final Fantasy IX" that is well done and comes with a new and improved interface.
According to a review of the specialized website gamezebo.com, the graphic interface in the mobile version allows to navigate menus by directly tapping on the desired option or via swiping. This is an improvement from the way the mobile port of the "Final Fantasy VII" was handled. There the mobile graphic interface features some virtual buttons that are obscuring the screen.
The mobile port allows using the touchscreen, according to Poket Gamer. There are options for a tap-to-move system or a contextual virtual stick for getting around in the game's virtual world. Players can switch between the two options on the go. Using the virtual stick won't work on the far left and right sides of the screen. However, the virtual stick use is easier than having a digital pad superimposed on the screen.
Progression can be made easier in "Final Fantasy IX" similar to the "Final Fantasy VII" port. Even if most players will probably ignore these features, the mobile port allows to just tap a button in order to increase the game's speed, turn enemy encounters on or off, have characters instantly master any abilities, instantly max-out everyone's stats, max out your money, and so on. Especially for new players, these features can make a smart inclusion.
Another special feature in the mobile version is Continue. By choosing the feature from the main menu players will automatically start in the last room they entered, regardless of whether or not they were stomped by a boss, whether or not they've saved.
The visuals in the mobile port of the "Final Fantasy IX" come with added detail to the 3D textures makes. The mobile game is even more enjoyable from a graphical standpoint than the original version. A lot more character detail is possible now, even if the backgrounds are not providing the same level of refinement.
