Final Fantasy XIII-2

I'm sure that I am one of the few people out there that enjoyed the first Final Fantasy XIII.  When the game came out, a lot of people had negative things to say about it such as the story, the linear gameplay, no NPC's, and no towns.  But honestly, I enjoyed it for what it was, the story wasn't the best but it kept me interested, there were no NPC's or stores to put my adventure on hold as I talk to folks or shop around, and I loved the next generation visuals as it was the first Final Fantasy to come to the new consoles.  Ok sorry guys this isn't a Final Fantasy XIII review, but since mentioning those which others may say was a flaw Final Fantasy XIII-2 wanted to address them and correct them.

Story - Final Fantasy XIII-2 takes place right after the events of Final Fantasy XIII where our heroes save Cocoon from destruction.  For some unknown reason Lightning has disappeared and know one seems to remember her making it thorugh the conflict except for her sister, Serah.  This sets up the adventure for FF13-2 as you take control of Serah, in which you must find the answers to Lightnings disappearance.  While on your quest you'll meet new and familiar faces as well as time travel with your new companions Noel and Mog.

Visuals - Since Final Fantasy XIII-2 is in the same universe as its predecessor, it only makes sense that they'll be using the same design in terms of both characters and the world itself.  And that is talking from an in game stand point, but if I were tell you about the CGI portions of the game where everything is pre-rendered for cinematic events, well those are just flat out amazing!  I should also mention that they have added town areas where NPC's roam freely, and yes, you will be able to talk to them!

Gameplay -  If your familiar with the FFXIII, then you'll definitely feel at home.  If not, lets start with the battle system.  The battles are live action in way, if you don't attack your enemies will still continue to attack you, you have a bar in which fills up and you'll be able to either select which ability to use or let the auto command choose whats best for the situation.  You'll also have different abilities depending on what class you pick, so finding the right balance for the current situation is essential especially when your able to switch during battles.  The big difference in FFXIII-2 is the fact that you'll have your 3rd party member as monsters that you can have join your party after defeating them in battle, which I wish they added more characters to fight along side you. Enemies appear randomly giving you time to get a preemptive strike, and there are a lot of Live action events in which you must press certain buttons correctly to get a better out come in battle.  Also take note that when certain parts in conversations between characters come up, you'll be given the choice of what to say, which can sometimes have an effect on things.  They have also added puzzles for you to solve which have you running around connecting dots, or grabbing crystals without stepping on the same square twice.

Over All - Final Fantasy XIII-2 makes up for what the first one lacked, and if you give it a chance, you'll find an engaging story line in which you'll find interesting, especially if you played the first one.  I've always known Final Fantasy for its great story, amazing visuals, and fun gameplay. And for me, Final Fantasy XIII-2 continues that trend.  Give FFXIII-2 a shot, even if your just checking it out because your still waiting for Final Fantasy XIII-Versus.



Love the collectors Edition



Final Fantasy XIII-2 travels through time for a score of:  7.5 out of 10

seanizL