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Final
Fantasy X-2 is a good enough sequel, albeit one that bangs loudly with fireworks
that follows up its more thought-provoking predecessor. If you were a Final
Fantasy fan, this title wouldn’t escape you. |
.:
Story: 8/10
.: Gameplay: 8/10
.: Graphics: 10/10
.: Music: 9/10
.: Value: 8/10
.: Replay Value: 9/10 |
Overall:
8.6
Excellent |
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Category:
Role-Playing | Console-style RPG
Platform: PlayStation 2
Tech Information: 1 Player. |
Publisher:
Square Enix
Developer: Square Enix
Release Date: 12/17/2001 |
Story:
Final Fantasy X-2 – Square first ever sequel first made itself know to the
gaming world in the form of a gun-toting Yuna, High Summoner-turned-adventurous
Sphere Hunter with a costume made from pieces of cloth. Yuna is back from Final
Fantasy X – boasting a whole new array of fiend-battling styles and a cool,
overly-feminine to make it look appealing and cool enough to those who willingly
took up the game. This time, in her story, she paves a way through Spira, in search
of more spheres to find a certain lost Blitzball player. 'Along the journey her
cousin Rikku and friend Paine accompany Yuna, thus paving a way for an all girl
team in a Final Fantasy, while fighting fiends, searching for treasure spheres,
play mini-games, reminisce and end up saving Spira once again.
Artistic
Elements:
Like Final Fantasy X, the graphics are fluid and well done. Smooth might be
the word used to describe the videos. Each is beautifully crafted and adds to
the overall value of the game. The in-game graphics are also superb, as always.
There is very natural and integrative movement flow for the characters –
especially Yuna’s ankle length skirt. The fluidity of movements of Final
Fantasy X has been passed down to its sequel.
Most of
the music found in the game is of a light-hearted theme, a distinct difference
from Final Fantasy X’s more reflectively moody themes. However, the plot
has changed much since its predecessor, employing a less serious attitude, therefore,
the music for this particular title actually suits the game pretty well. The
styles of the theme songs are a matter of preference for the player. The same
goes for the language and the singer. Although, Koda Kumi’s ‘Real
Emotion’ and Jade’s ‘1000 Words’ strikes a favourable
chord with the masses.
Like Final
Fantasy X also, the voice acting can veer on the edge of horrible sometimes.
Although Yuna’s voice has been improved, it remains unbalanced at times.
Rikku’s voice acting, on the other hand, is well done if you can bear
with the perkiness. Others remain a commendable effort, but not overly impressive.
Gameplay:
The ATB is back in place after a long break in Final Fantasy X. Once again the
time gauge has to be filled up in order for the characters to perform commands.
Certain actions take up longer bars. However, another new aspect is introduced.
Certain commands needed to be charged accordingly following the time bar if
they are to be executed by the characters. However, in certain jobs the charge
time can be cut. The Dressphere system is also introduced. Characters can change
costumes following the Jobs that are imbued into the Garment Grid by the player.
This system is relatively easy to learn.
Replay
Value:
The replay value for a Final Fantasy has never been at such a high scale as
this title is. After completing the game players can retain the Dressphere abilities,
items, equipment and accessories. Mainly, upon 100% completion of the game players
unlock the secret conclusion for the story, a long full motion video is awarded
after the initial ending movie is played out at the end. Since making different
decisions in the game is crucial to your percentage progress and objects that
can be obtained, this game can be replayed several times. The story is divided
into five chapters – each short enough to keep the player’s attention.
Value:
Final Fantasy X-2 is a game worth having in your private collection, mainly
because of three reasons: This is a Final Fantasy title; it is an enjoyable
experience; and if you have played the Final Fantasy X, this is a must-have.
Overall:
Final Fantasy X-2 is not a game without issues - but the problems lie mainly
with the displayed image of the female characters and the superficial style
of it. It’s fun to play, if you can see past the flaunted sexuality and
extreme charm. It’s a good enough sequel, albeit one that bangs loudly
with fireworks that follows up its more thought-provoking predecessor. If you
were a Final Fantasy fan, this title wouldn’t escape you.
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Review Written by: Pearl ~
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