Final Fantasy IX is a role-playing video game developed by Square Enix and released in 2000. It is the ninth main installment in the Final Fantasy series and is set in the fantasy world of Gaia. The game follows a young thief named Zidane Tribal and his companions as they embark on a quest to rescue a princess and thwart a sinister plot. The gameplay features turn-based combat, character progression, and a rich story filled with themes of identity and friendship. Players can explore various locations, interact with non-playable characters, and engage in mini-games. Final Fantasy IX is praised for its charming art style and nostalgic return to the series' roots.