Debatedly, Final Fantasy Tactics currently represnets the current set peak for the genre.
Let's begin with the plot. Rather than trying to explain the rather comlex intricacy of it let's just say the game has it's own follow along encyclopedia type story that you can read to get all the juicy backstory. Political corruption, double crosses, religion, cults, the game has it all. The attention to detail is astounding and truly emphasises the feeling of playing such a genre, that you and your cadre' are simply chess pawns in the grand scheme of things.
The graphics are a treat as well. Each type of these games tries to go for a different cartoony or ultra realistic look, but i'd say Square really scored with the character art, which they have used freuqently since.
The music is another point of enjoyment. I personally own and often listen to several selections from the 2 disc OST, and i must say it's classic square.
The gameplay can be difficult, but these games tend to be that way. Be careful, you'll tend to spend a long time simply playing the game and you won't even realize the time go by.
One thing i must say to close this review, similar to what i said to open it, if you play this game before delving into other titles in the genre, you may find yourself rather disspointed with what you sample after.