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The FF 13 series is a bit of a mix up between fans. When they first released, especially the first game, a lot of fans were upset with just how linear it was. Now after some years, it seems the games have received more positive ratings. However, I’m here to do a Final Fantasy XIII-2 review, since I believe this specific entry is the best one of them all.
Story
Following the story events that took place in the first XIII, you see Serah coping with the loss of her sister, and trying to understand why her memories aren’t matching up with everyone else’s.
One night, when her and her friends are being attacked, suddenly Noel comes riding in on an asteroid of sorts. He claims that he just spoke to Lightning and she is in a place called Valhalla. Before she can ask questions, Noel tells her he has a gift for her from her sister, and hands her a bow.
Fast forward to after the battle, and the night. Serah questions Noel and after some story events, we are officially off into different timelines. They hop from place to place, in search of Lightning and exactly why Serah remembers what everyone else does not.
Gameplay
Following the same system as the first game, we see the (paragidm?) shift return. Only it is more refined that before, and now we have teh introduction of monster collecting rather than a full cast of people. That specific change I was more than happy with, and thought it added a really nice layer to the gameplay. You started off with some of the most basic monsters, each having their own roles such rav, med, attk. As you played, and started to go to other timelines and areas, you were introduced to tougher enemies, but also better monsters with better stats.
I suppose that could be in line with most monster collecting games, but I thought it was considerably satisfying to run into that one specific monster you had been hunting for some time and finally was able to collect its crystal. Which, to even get the monsters, you had to defeat them in battle and hope you were rewarded with them. There were certain skills and other available devices to make this more likely, but that’s the gist of it.
Graphics
To me, this game has some of the most beautiful graphics from the PS3, Xbox 360 and Wii generation. From wide fields to towns to the beach and the ruins alike, this game’s scenery is remarkable. If you play this game on the Xbox Series X, it only enhances the visuals to make them even prettier to gaze at.
Soundtrack
I’ve played quite a few different Final Fantasy titles in my day, and I believe this has one of the best soundtracks (in my opinion) in the series. From a nice, calm melody on a beach to the battle music that really pumps you up with how loud and dark it can be.
Score
Story: 8/10
Gameplay: 8/10
Graphics: 8/10
Soundtrack: 9/10
Replayability: 8/10
Overall:
Final Words
Although Final Fantasy XIII had some issues, it seems that the 2nd installment fixed a majority of those. This game isn’t perfect by any means, but I do regard it as a very fun and time worthy adventure with plenty of sites to see and tough bosses to fight.
Thanks for reading my Final Fantasy XIII-2 review.
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