Here's my controversial opinion:
J-RPGs are hardly RPGs at all since character progression is automatic, there is no decision making other than tactical combat and there is usually a massive obsession with power gaming through level grinding. That said, some can be really fun. One of my all time favorite games is Chrono Trigger, but it is because the story and characters are all excellent and charming. Mechanically, it's just another jRPG.
Final Fantasy isn't specially attractive even if some entries are supposed to have great narrative, like the popular FF VII. I personally only played IV on the DS and it was, well, OK.
My opinion of FF IV is that it is a fun game that borders on frustration way too often. Level grinding is massive and distracts you from your characters motivations. Mechanics and exploration are the same old thing: roam around, unavoidable random battles, power gaming, auto progression. The story is OK if you are 12, as it's riddled with every possible cliche and creatures from all possible cultures and mythologies.
But even then I gave it 30 or more hours of my life and I don't regret it. It was fun, turn your brain off and shut up type of fun. Might have been more hours with all that bullshit grinding but I'd rather not think about it.
So coming from the other type of game, the computer RPG, I don't think most jRPGs and FFs are worth it. Specially with the crowdfunded cRPGs coming out.
It's all a matter of preference though.