It's easily my most cherished game based on nostalgia alone.. I had discovered FFVII (my first RPG) earlier that year (1999, I was 11) and found out they were working on FFVIII in some magazines..
Then I became extremely hyped for FFVIII and I actually remember parts of the day I went into the city with my mother to buy it on its release date.. I remember saying "YES, I have Final Fantasy VIII!" aloud in the crowded tram back home, lol.
I remember that first day I got to the part where the spider/crab robot chases you in Dollet.
The game didn't disappoint me, it's still my favorite in every way.
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"Halls of justice painted green, money talking. Power wolves beset your door, hear them stalking " Metallica - ...And Justice For All