Quick Look: Final Fantasy XIII-2 Demo (with Gameplay Video)
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Final Fantasy XIII was a half disappointment for Square Enix but the team behind the long running Japanese role playing game series has promised that the upcoming XIII-2 sequel would fix everything that was flawed in the original release.
Based on the demo that has just arrived and I have played on the PlayStation 3 home console I don’t think that anyone should take that at face value.
The demo shows the player a good chunk of gameplay, allowing for both some exploration and a few set pieces and the game feels pretty much like a somewhat better looking version of the original Final Fantasy XIII release.
The battle system was supposed to be more dynamic, but I just felt like pushing Auto-battle all the time and doing the occasional heal, something that might or might not change when more attacks and moves are introduced.
The conversations that I had felt similarly stilted and the new character that I met, dressed in traditional Chocobo garb, is a bad omen if the rest of the new faces are similarly stepped in the lore of the series.
Square Enix might have attracted more players for the full release via the demo if it had chosen a section from later in the game, when the majesty of the battles really becomes apparent.
Based on how Final Fantasy XIII played, the demo that I have just experienced and the rather disappointing reception that XIII-2 received in Japan I have a strong feeling that the new game will fail to capture the attention of audiences in the West and will prompt a long period of reflection inside the development team at Square Enix.
Here’s a look at what the demo for Final Fantasy XIII-2 throws at the player during the first ten or so minutes to get an idea of what the game has to offer:
It would appear to me the author of the article was still hung up on "not liking" the first installment and that has transmitted itself into his feelings on the second. Reviewers who originally gave 13 high marks seem to be pulling back with 13-2 because of 13's poor marks by the gamers themselves after it was released. I was also disappointed with 13. The linearity, lack of towns, side quests and just not the good ole' FF feel all contributed to the poor marks. I played the demo and to be honest I thoroughly enjoyed it. In the short period I played it seems that all of the negatives from 13 have been ironed out. I'm just hoping the story and content are enough to actually merit the 60$ price tag
I was very impressed with the demo. I thought the changes addressed all of my concerns with the original. I don't agree with the author's view that the demo should have showcased a later part in the game. That would reveal too much, and I don't know about the rest of you, but I'd like to be surprised. I think this guy just wanted some free spoilers.
Plus, let's not forget that these days the Internet seems to exist for the sole purpose of hating on everything, regardless of whether it's deserving or not. Negative reviews get more attention and views. Sad, but true.
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