I do actually really want to play IX as well at some point. It's the only "Modern" Final Fantasy that's really caught my interest. I'm not a fan of the 100% Sci-Fi direction they took the series into. I always preferred the medieval-ish setting with Sci-Fi elements, like the Airships and ancient tech and such.

Also something I wish were more prevalent in Final Fantasy games: the ability to name your potential party members. I mean...Earthbound did it just fine. xD