Do I need to play the first two games to enjoy this one? (no spoilers please)

[Abstract Daddy]

I played 999, and bought this game because I liked 999 but didn't realize that it was a sequel. Am I missing key plot points? I started playing and feel like I'm missing a lot of information the dialogue assumes I know. Please no spoilers thanks.

[Sirlion]

Yes. Go play Virtue's Last Reward first.

[Dakkon]

I went through Zero Time Dilemma and then VLR and I found it to be just as rewarding. The "ahh thats what that was" moments are still there, just in reverse.

[Abstract Daddy]

Thanks for the replies. I went ahead and played ZTD without having played VLR. Some things were confusing but it was still enjoyable. I'll get my hands on VLR and play that next.

[Rainbow Jack©]

Well VLR will be confusing too either Way, but from what I remember it's quite superior to ZTD, but will see if Memory serves, just restarted VLR :D