How Long is Final Fantasy 9? – Finishing a Classic JRPG

Final Fantasy 9, the classic role-playing game developed by Square (now Square Enix), holds a special place in the hearts of gamers worldwide. So much so that many see it as the best Final Fantasy for a long while! One question that often arises among players is, “How long is Final Fantasy 9 to finish?” In this article, we will look into the various factors that contribute to the game’s duration, including the main story, optional content, and player choices.
Main Story Duration
The duration of Final Fantasy 9 can vary depending on several factors. This includes the player’s experience level, playstyle, and familiarity with the game mechanics. On average, finishing the main storyline of Final Fantasy 9 can take about 40 to 60 hours.
This estimate accounts for progressing through the main quests, cutscenes, and essential battles required to reach the game’s conclusion. However, players who choose to fully immerse themselves in the rich lore and explore every nook and cranny may find themselves spending significantly more time.
Exploring Side Quests and Optional Content
Final Fantasy 9 offers a vast array of side quests. Also, optional activities and hidden secrets for those seeking to delve deeper into the game world. These additional features can significantly extend the playtime. Optional content such as Chocobo Hot and Cold, Tetra Master card game, and the Mognet sidequest system adds depth and enjoyment to the game.
Additionally, Final Fantasy 9 includes various challenging boss battles, secret locations, and hidden treasures. While not necessary, players can discover them via thorough exploration. Engaging in side quests and optional content can easily add an extra 20 to 40 hours to the total playtime. Again, this heavily depends on the player’s dedication and willingness to explore.
Player Choices and Playstyle
Final Fantasy 9 presents players with choices that can affect the overall duration of the game. For example, players can choose to focus solely on progressing through the main storyline, bypassing optional content and side quests. Such an approach may reduce the overall playtime.

On the other hand, players who immerse themselves in the game’s world, fully explore each location, and engage in optional activities will naturally spend more time on their journey.
The time spent in battles can also vary depending on the player’s strategy and familiarity with the game’s mechanics. Some players may choose to engage in every random encounter, while others may opt to minimize battles to streamline progress. These choices and playstyles can significantly impact the overall duration of the game.
Conclusion
Square’s Final Fantasy 9 is a captivating game that offers a diverse range of experiences. It has a treasure trove of content for players to enjoy. The main story can typically be completed in 40 to 60 hours. However, engaging in side quests, exploring optional content, and making player choices can significantly extend the playtime. In fact, some may even feel so invested in the game that they can easily take up even 100 hours or more!
With its rich story, excellent characters, and effective gameplay systems, Final Fantasy 9 is an adventure that rewards both casual players and dedicated explorers alike. So, whether you choose to embark on a focused journey through the main story or venture into every hidden corner of Gaia, Final Fantasy 9 promises an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression.