Feh, using GFs for everything is a wuss way to play FFVIII. Well, no, actually I just can't stand it because I'm too impatient. And because the gunblade has an inherent visceral appeal. (WHACKBOOM!) Bahamut was a big wuss in VIII anyway -- his only advantage was a long FMV for much Boost time.

I do recommend FF6(3E) for you. *Awesome* game. Plus has the magic versatility you seem to want. It's out on compilation CDs for the PSX, but downloading an emulator and ROM can work just as well for much less money.

Dig into Chrono Trigger/Cross and, if you want a migraine-inducing, ludicrously long game, Xenogears. I was always fond of the Breath of Fire series as well. Dragons