Publisher: Square Enix
Ages: ten & up
Parental
Advisory:
Arcade violence
For fantastic roleplay and action in a popular world, Square Enix's Final Fantasy X-2 delivers an entertaining experience that's true to series and brings innovation to the gameplay. Longtime Final Fantasy fans won't be disappointed.
In a break from tradition, Final Fantasy X-2 is the first in the series to be a sequel, in this case, to the popular Final Fantasy X (which sold some 6.4 million copies worldwide). The game reintroduces the ATB (active time battle) system that accelerates the pace of battles and is the first mission-based Final Fantasy that allows for non-linear gameplay. There are also new job classes that provide new looks for the leading female characters and an enhanced character development system.
This first female-led Final Fantasy offers the return of Yuna, her enthusiastic cousin Rikku and introduces Paine, their sarcastic, hard-nosed friend. Those who already know and love Yuna will discover a flashier character in this game.
Taking place two years after Yuna's journey to defeat Sin in Final Fantasy X, the chaotic world of Spira has gone through a massive transformation, entering a period of "Eternal Calm." Despite the calm, Yuna's heart is empty and longs for a lost love. When she comes across a mystical sphere that shows her what might be the Blitzball player she thought was gone forever, Yuna searches for the truth.
The game features the usual roleplay and Final Fantasy elements that include dungeon crawling, building a party, fighting bosses, talking with lots of characters and more. Throughout the land of Spira, players find "spheres" which contain visual recordings of historical events. "Dress spheres" open up jobs that range from warrior, white mage, alchemist to trainer and more, all of which may be accessed and changed during battle. The story is a good one of love and political intrigue, and battles occur at a lively clip compared with previous versions of the game.
Graphically, the game looks great, but it's not a huge leap over those in the previous game. As a roleplay title, the game features lots of fighting and violence. Also, the female characters dress in rather revealing fashions.
Final Fantasy X-2 is a great game and a worthy follow-up in the Final Fantasy world. It's one that fans will enjoy. However, those who aren't familiar with Final Fantasy or even roleplay games may find it difficult to get into.
www.daytrum.com Editorial Staff
