Final Fantasy XIII

 Xbox 360
User Score
6.1

Mixed or average reviews- based on 692 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 312 out of 692
  2. Mixed: 174 out of 692
  3. Negative: 206 out of 692
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  1. VengeanceUK
    Sep 21, 2010
    9
    Its a beautiful game, but it fails in the aspect that it is too linear and it still does not beat FFVII for story and variety. The battle system, while no doubt some will love it and some will hate it, i was disappointed by it. These flaws are i can only give it a 9
  2. Treima
    Sep 23, 2010
    8
    While the fan reaction to Final Fantasy XIII is one of the most polarized that a Final Fantasy game has seen since the arrival of Final Fantasy IX, I find myself firmly on the fence. It's a great RPG, but it takes a lot of rather daunting risks with the traditional formula that fans have come to expect. Unsurprisingly, not all of them turn up roses.
  3. spazzinmekon
    Nov 17, 2010
    8
    I liked the game and instantly loved some of the characters, but for some reason it didn't really keep my attention like Final Fantasy X or X-2 did, this one seems....dull in some areas. Don't get me wrong, i'm very happy i bought but this game reminds me of Final Fantasy 7 (the newer version 1), after i beat the game once, i never touched it game. This game is sorta the same, i may playI liked the game and instantly loved some of the characters, but for some reason it didn't really keep my attention like Final Fantasy X or X-2 did, this one seems....dull in some areas. Don't get me wrong, i'm very happy i bought but this game reminds me of Final Fantasy 7 (the newer version 1), after i beat the game once, i never touched it game. This game is sorta the same, i may play it over, but eh.… Expand
  4. Manucovic
    Dec 2, 2010
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Not great, not the worst. Graphics and OST are breathtaking, the storyline is good, although a little bit weird and twisted in the end. The fighting system was awkward at first but nice once you had trained it for some hours. The worst is the lack of secondary missions.… Expand
  5. ImUnavailable
    Jun 27, 2011
    8
    Being the newest game in one of the most beloved and successful video game series is never easy and while XIII doesn't hold a candle to the best FF titles, it is still a good game in its own right. The first note to make has to be regarding the fantastic visuals which are some of the best of this console generation. However, visuals are not why FF games are so popular. The real point ofBeing the newest game in one of the most beloved and successful video game series is never easy and while XIII doesn't hold a candle to the best FF titles, it is still a good game in its own right. The first note to make has to be regarding the fantastic visuals which are some of the best of this console generation. However, visuals are not why FF games are so popular. The real point of interest is the combat. The paradigm system is a fresh take on the job system generally associated with III and V. Characters switch roles in the heat of battle, meaning a constant creating and revision of strategy, adding depth and complexity to fighting. The crystarium is very similar to the sphere grid of FFX so it is not a revolution in player growth. The story is much more character driven than other FF games with each struggling with problems connected to others in the group. Though it sags in the third act, the story is much more mature and modern than that of other games in the series. With a combination of graphics, gameplay and story, on paper this looks like an instant classic. FFXIII's real problem is in its mishandling of these elements. The camera is constantly trying to direct the player to the scenery and the visual dazzle occasionally overwhelms and prevents immersion. The game takes too long to reveal all elements of its battle system, withholding the ability to change roles and leaders until certain sections of the game. The characters personal conflicts take much too long to resolve themselves, usually because a character is too afraid to speak up. Though I liked most of the characters, Vanille was unbearable, with an optimistic attitude that is completely at odds with the story and the rest of the characters. This game will divide fans who question whether this is a game worth of the FF name. But to do this game justice, gamers should judge FFXIII on what it is and not on what it isn't.… Expand
  6. Trucidar
    Mar 19, 2011
    8
    Pros: Superbly beautiful graphics, scenery, cutscenes, and fairly interesting story. Plays out like a movie. Offers a truly unique experience from other video games. Cons: Is not true to franchise, simple combat, sidequests and exploration are nonexistant. Character building is also linear meaning no replayability. Barely counts as an RPG.

    Overall: I think FFXIII is a refreshingly    Pros: Superbly beautiful graphics, scenery, cutscenes, and fairly interesting story. Plays out like a movie. Offers a truly unique experience from other video games. Cons: Is not true to franchise, simple combat, sidequests and exploration are nonexistant. Character building is also linear meaning no replayability. Barely counts as an RPG.

    Overall: I think FFXIII is a refreshingly unique experience. I think it was cool to see a game play out like a movie, but at the same time I would not want all my games to do such.    … Expand
  7. Rafalas
    Mar 18, 2012
    9
    I just can't understand why the bad reviews. People seem to go all fanboy when a new game of a saga comes out, and something has been changed. I've played all Final Fantasy games up to date in all different Playstation and Xbox formats. People complain that the combat system has changed, that the maps have changed, that the eidolons have changed... well, let me tell you that the way ofI just can't understand why the bad reviews. People seem to go all fanboy when a new game of a saga comes out, and something has been changed. I've played all Final Fantasy games up to date in all different Playstation and Xbox formats. People complain that the combat system has changed, that the maps have changed, that the eidolons have changed... well, let me tell you that the way of playing games have changed. I'm about 30 hours into this game and it plays beautifully: combats require some party preparation and although you can only control the leader, to tweak the AI and to administrate all the combat profiles is part of the game. The new combat system takes from the player all the boring management and just lets them get in what they like, to fight.

    Technically, this game is constantly impressing me. Final Fantasy games are known for being epic and spectacular, but FF XIII has just gone over all that. It's like on a different level from any other thing. Beautiful graphics, masterpiece soundtrack, amazing motion capture, and a catchy storyline. It's hard to get better than this in terms of production quality. Too hard.

    Fan gamers will just not even give this an opportunity, or even if they do, they'll be so stubborn about it being different that they'll be stuck. I think SquareEnix has done a great done adapting the Final Fantasy saga to mechanics with which players are more comfortable these days. And that's not bad, that's improvement.

    The only drawback of it, and the reason why I don't give a 10, is that enhancing the weapons, and knowing which ones to use, where to get them, or how to optimize them can be a very intrincate task. It's as if you really couldn't figure it out without a guide.

    Do yourself a favor: don't listen to the fanboys, don't compare it with old Final Fantasy games, and play it. It'll submerge you in a fantastic experience you won't regret.    … Expand
  8. CloudStrifeVII
    Dec 15, 2011
    10
    Best Rol game of this generation.
    Square did a masterpiece.
  9. TJ_Kragt
    Aug 2, 2012
    10
    Before I write the review I just have to say FFXIII trolls give this game way too much crap. This game is a great game, the linearity was not a huge issue. It's just westerners have gotten used to these WRPGs where you have a wide open world that you can easily get lost in (literally), not to mention the story is usually lacking. So the bad reviews is just westerners complaining that theBefore I write the review I just have to say FFXIII trolls give this game way too much crap. This game is a great game, the linearity was not a huge issue. It's just westerners have gotten used to these WRPGs where you have a wide open world that you can easily get lost in (literally), not to mention the story is usually lacking. So the bad reviews is just westerners complaining that the JRPG is a different type of RPG. Also, the FF fanbase is very split and conflicted. If Square does one thing then half are going to be pleased and half not pleased. Honestly, I think you can't ever please more than 60% of the fanbase at one time anymore because we all want different things. Now on to the review.......Final Fantasy XIII is another great addition to the franchise. The story is a compelling tale and the characters play well off of eachother. The only short coming is Vanille's high pitched voice, but thats the voice coach's fault for wanting it that way. The characters are well developed and you see the main protagonist mature through the course of the game. The combat is fantastic, very flashy and fun, as well as fast-paced. It offers a refreshing change up for the series. The music is good also, but not quite up to what Nobuo Uematsu has offered for previous installments. That doesn't stop the soundtrack from being good, though. There are also over 60 sidequests to indulge in when you get the chance which offer plenty of post-story play. Final Fantasy XIII's more streamlined nature pays off in this epic tale of heroism.… Expand
  10. msherry9
    Jan 16, 2014
    9
    Let me start off by first saying that this is easily one of the best Final Fantasy games out there right now. Ever since I finished Final Fantasy X's epic storyline, I've been yearning for another Final Fantasy game to come along that can emulate the emotions that I had felt all those years ago. I'm happy to say that I have indeed found that game in the form of Final Fantasy XIII. I'veLet me start off by first saying that this is easily one of the best Final Fantasy games out there right now. Ever since I finished Final Fantasy X's epic storyline, I've been yearning for another Final Fantasy game to come along that can emulate the emotions that I had felt all those years ago. I'm happy to say that I have indeed found that game in the form of Final Fantasy XIII. I've slowly come to realize that most fans either love the game or absolutely hate it and I can understand both sides of the spectrum. Graphically, even by today's standards, FFXIII is one of the sharpest looking games out there. Character models still look extremely solid and the environments and cutscenes are absolutely gorgeous. The game features an entirely made-from-scratch world with its own rich history and extremely deep lore that is presented in spot-on fashion so as to not overwhelm the player with too many details. Now, moving on to the core aspects of the game, starting with the storyline. As mentioned earlier, FFXIII's story is one of hope. It's about setting out to accomplish something, rather than sitting around wishing you could, when others say it is impossible. Admittedly, it's not exactly the most unique message a video game has ever conveyed, but the manner in which it is presented is spectacular. The story starts off focused on Lightning Farron (whose real first name is revealed later), a Guardian Corps. soldier whose sister becomes branded by a demigod-like being called a Fal'Cie. Those that are branded, called l'Cie, have what's called a Focus, which is a single objective that must be accomplished in a limited amount of time. If the l'Cie fails to carry out their Focus in the time given, they turn into mindless demonic creatures called Cie'th. However, if they do carry out their Focus successfully, they turn into crystal to sleep for all of eternity, which isn't exactly much better. Without giving away too much more, Lightning desperately tries to help her sister out of this impossible situation. By far, this is one of the most stellar endings, in my opinion, to any video I've ever played, neatly wrapping up all loose ends and satisfying the player. The game features an extraordinary cast of hit-or-miss characters. My friend hated every single party member while I grew fond of every one of them. Each of them features an engaging backstory and personality and I actually cared deeply what happened to them as the story progressed. The game's score is absolutely fantastic and suits the game's tone and atmosphere perfectly. Moving on to actual gameplay, many critics fault the game for its extreme linearity and I wholeheartedly agree. This is easily one of the most linear games you will ever play, with very little to no side-missions or objectives to accomplish. The side missions that are available (late in the game) are nothing more than monster-slaying missions and a majority of them offer rewards that barely warrant the time and effort put into these challenging battles. In fact, the majority of the game is very challenging. The game lacks any sort of difficulty setting and so if you're a very casual gamer, you may want to steer clear of this one. Personally, I enjoy challenging video games but this game was just downright frustrating at times. I honestly don't even know how they expect you to win some of the fights without maxing out your characters. The game's battle system is a healthy combination of turn-based combat and a fast-paced action game. It's difficult to describe in a few sentences but it is extremely satisfying without becoming a mindless button-masher. Triumphing over rough boss fights is a real treat that truly tests your skills as a gamer. Fortunately, you can "Retry" any battle mid-fight, which resets your character to right before you engaged the enemy, and the save systems throughout the game are very generous. Overall, Final Fantasy XIII is a treat of a video game. Boasting sharp visuals, an intelligently-satisfying battle system, a fantastic cast of characters, an emotionally engaging storyline and an absolutely stellar ending, this truly is the Final Fantasy game that all fans should play.… Expand
  11. AllenC
    Mar 9, 2010
    9
    This game needs to be enjoyed for what it is, not despised for what it isn't. On its own merits, I found this game to be incredibly enjoyable. The story was good and surprisingly character-driven when you think about it. The battle system, as has been noted, is great. The battles are the best of any FF game yet. I'm not going to complain about the lack of exploration in this This game needs to be enjoyed for what it is, not despised for what it isn't. On its own merits, I found this game to be incredibly enjoyable. The story was good and surprisingly character-driven when you think about it. The battle system, as has been noted, is great. The battles are the best of any FF game yet. I'm not going to complain about the lack of exploration in this game because that isn't what the game is about. The first five hours or so really stink. I felt that I was being treated like a bit of an idiot. The end makes up for that. Great game... though all-in-all not as compelling as X or XII.… Expand
  12. Karma_police
    Dec 21, 2010
    9
    I really don`t know why people hate this game so much, i know ff xiii isn`t ff vii i know lightning is`nt cloud but you can`t pass your entire life waiting for a remake, ff xiii innovates and refresh the jrpg concept and that what square enix said before launching the game, in ten years this game will be remembered like one of the most underrated ff ever just for the obsession with cloudI really don`t know why people hate this game so much, i know ff xiii isn`t ff vii i know lightning is`nt cloud but you can`t pass your entire life waiting for a remake, ff xiii innovates and refresh the jrpg concept and that what square enix said before launching the game, in ten years this game will be remembered like one of the most underrated ff ever just for the obsession with cloud and company.… Expand
  13. SamM
    Mar 14, 2010
    8
    A solid final fantasy experience, graphics and presntation are out of this world and the battle system is well thought out and brings in a number of different tactics for different situations. The story is involving and the voice acting is good for the most part. Unfortunatly it's just missing the charm of its predecessors, and thats why it can't be scored as highly.
  14. DavidS
    Mar 9, 2010
    8
    Overall I'd say thusfar it's a fairly decent game. The graphics are beautiful and the battle system is well laid out. Character Development isn't too shabby but the storyline hasn't fully sucked me in not quite yet. Hopefully it'll improve over time, but for now it seems a bit linear and a bit predictable at times. Overall I'd still say not a bad installment Overall I'd say thusfar it's a fairly decent game. The graphics are beautiful and the battle system is well laid out. Character Development isn't too shabby but the storyline hasn't fully sucked me in not quite yet. Hopefully it'll improve over time, but for now it seems a bit linear and a bit predictable at times. Overall I'd still say not a bad installment to the series.… Expand
  15. DanielK
    Mar 10, 2010
    10
    This game is amazing.... I bought the 360 version because I use my 360 far more and yes there are a few minor blemishes graphically, but overall it's a technical marvel. Besides I like having a smoother framerate and to think they accomplished this on 360 in less than half the time of the dev time of the PS3 is more than impressive. I was a little iffy on the battle system at first This game is amazing.... I bought the 360 version because I use my 360 far more and yes there are a few minor blemishes graphically, but overall it's a technical marvel. Besides I like having a smoother framerate and to think they accomplished this on 360 in less than half the time of the dev time of the PS3 is more than impressive. I was a little iffy on the battle system at first but once you get a couple hours in, the options really open up. I cannot stress enough that the game is amazing and owners of either system should go pick it up; I may still buy the PS3 version just to have both since I'm such an FF nut (I have every single main series Final Fantasy).… Expand
  16. DallasB
    Mar 9, 2010
    8
    First off the Visuals are the BEST on the 360! There is no discerning between cut scenes and actual game play. The only jaggies can be seen when you move the camera closeup on the character and you get some straight line animations on the arms. But that really is a mute point as the characters look superb close up as the do far away! Graphics:10 So far missions have felt short and simple. First off the Visuals are the BEST on the 360! There is no discerning between cut scenes and actual game play. The only jaggies can be seen when you move the camera closeup on the character and you get some straight line animations on the arms. But that really is a mute point as the characters look superb close up as the do far away! Graphics:10 So far missions have felt short and simple. I use auto battle the most as I just want to watch the great graphics but for those who want to get into the nitty gritty they can customize and slow down the battle. I really REALLY want to control the character. I want to battle myself, pushing buttons to punch or another button the slash, or that special button to achieve a special skill,but sadly it is not there. Basically just Que up what you want and sit back and watch. The early bosses look like they will be Huge challenges but often then not they are just as easy as early soldiers. Also sometimes during battles your star system is based on how quick you beat the bad guys, so to be perfect in stars you want to win as quick as possible. Also drops from battles can be incredible items, to nothing dropped, though this gets better as you progress through the game, as one would expect! Game Play: 7.5 Story Line can be somewhat confusing. Make sure you push that Y button on the 360 quite a bit and read the story progress as you may get somewhat lost. I would much have rather watched cut scenes then read this lengthy book they have, as it can take you out of the heat of the moment, but at least it is included. There are a few characters that will pull at your heart strings, but sometimes your left wondering why that character just behave that way, over all though it doesn't put a damper on the game play, though it does take you out of it due to all the reading. I feel this is the biggest fault of the game! Story:6 Camera Control, can be VERY frustrating. I find myself, clicking the stick to re-center the camera quite a bit. I wished often that I could just go into First person mode, and look at all the gorgeous detail instead of being stuck in this third person mode. Also looking at enemies in your data bank will find you wanting to zoom in and rotate, but forget it, your stuck with just a static view, that you can't zoom in on or rotate. Camera 7 Finally the downside to some is the discs, there are 3 for the 360. This has no effect on me, and I have not installed the game, and I just play it from discs. Overall this is a GREAT game for the 360, and should be the standard for all games of this type moving forward. Take note of some of the small flaws of this game and the next game of this type would be almost perfect. Final Fantasy fans will buy this no question, but if your not into this type of game, you will be blown away by the gorgeous visuals and be left scratching your head about the story line and frustrated over really wanting to get into the fight, so you may want to rent before diving in on the purchase. For me this was a Midnight buy and I have been enjoying it, with just a few wishes and complaints before the game moves on to another gorgeous site!… Expand
  17. Shinigami
    Feb 14, 2011
    10
    For most of you, you think this game sucks. Well guess what... it DOESN'T! Final Fantasy games have never been mainly about focusing on in game play, it was just a side thing that was awesome. Anyway, the main thing is the story line, and if you actually pay attention it's really good! I admit that some of the characters I didn't like at first (Snow and Lightning to be exact) but then IFor most of you, you think this game sucks. Well guess what... it DOESN'T! Final Fantasy games have never been mainly about focusing on in game play, it was just a side thing that was awesome. Anyway, the main thing is the story line, and if you actually pay attention it's really good! I admit that some of the characters I didn't like at first (Snow and Lightning to be exact) but then I started to like them after a while, it's an amazing game if you give it a chance but most of you haven't. If you have a problem with this game, then the problems with yourself.… Expand
  18. GregS
    Mar 22, 2010
    10
    The best Final Fantasy since X. The story is one of the better ones in the series, and has one of the most likable casts in any Final Fantasy game (except Sazh). The combat system is the most fast paced in the series yet, with an emphasis on the ability to adapt. The removal of MP may seem like a bad thing, but it allows for random battles to actually take some effort, instead of the The best Final Fantasy since X. The story is one of the better ones in the series, and has one of the most likable casts in any Final Fantasy game (except Sazh). The combat system is the most fast paced in the series yet, with an emphasis on the ability to adapt. The removal of MP may seem like a bad thing, but it allows for random battles to actually take some effort, instead of the normal attack, then heal after battle. The lack of having to manage MP does not make it any easier either, as the mechanics are in place to prevent outlasting strategies on bosses. There is also some great music, even without Nobuo Uematsu. The final boss theme Born Anew, in particular, stands with the best final boss themes in the series. Oh, and the graphics are the best I've ever seen (though I have yet to play Crysis).… Expand
  19. AnonymousMC
    Mar 14, 2010
    9
    Well worth its money. The graphics are stunning to say the least. The battlesystem is by far the best I've ever used. It's never boring, and it combines fast-paced action with tactic. I've a hard time seeing some "noob" being able to finish some bosses (without grinding for X hours), since it requires a deep understanding of the game mechanics. It's true that the game Well worth its money. The graphics are stunning to say the least. The battlesystem is by far the best I've ever used. It's never boring, and it combines fast-paced action with tactic. I've a hard time seeing some "noob" being able to finish some bosses (without grinding for X hours), since it requires a deep understanding of the game mechanics. It's true that the game is alot of cinematics and fighting, and little else. Personally I don't have any problems with this, and neither should any true RPG-lover. The characters are good, and the story tight. However, for the first 25hrs (50-60% of the game), you don't really get alot of freedom in anything. This will change as you arrive at Gran Pulse, where you'll be able to take up a great deal of sidequests (even if they all are about "kill this mob for me"), which rewards you with nice stuff. All in all, it's a great game if you enjoy long stories with engaging characters and some j-grinding! … Expand
  20. MaxS
    Mar 9, 2010
    10
    I have no idea why this game has been given a 3.6 so far. There are obviously some trolls voting, because although I could understand a rating in the low B range, there is no way this game is in any way deserving of a fail. Even for the graphics alone, the game would be worth playing, but when you factor in the enjoyable story and gameplay, I have to give this game a score it rightly I have no idea why this game has been given a 3.6 so far. There are obviously some trolls voting, because although I could understand a rating in the low B range, there is no way this game is in any way deserving of a fail. Even for the graphics alone, the game would be worth playing, but when you factor in the enjoyable story and gameplay, I have to give this game a score it rightly deserves. Eat it, haters.… Expand
  21. MikeG.
    Apr 2, 2010
    8
    This game will lose points with people for its linear nature and advanced battle system. But all I can say is I love it. It has that excellent character development and story that you expect with a Final Fantasy. The sound track is great, again, as you would expect from a FF. The controls and camera can be annoying but its not a huge issue. This is a good game that I would recomend to any This game will lose points with people for its linear nature and advanced battle system. But all I can say is I love it. It has that excellent character development and story that you expect with a Final Fantasy. The sound track is great, again, as you would expect from a FF. The controls and camera can be annoying but its not a huge issue. This is a good game that I would recomend to any fan of the Final Fantasy series.… Expand
  22. JamesK
    Mar 10, 2010
    9
    A truly excellent title with the feel of Final Fantasy 10 in terms of camera or graphics, with the classic sensibilities from Final Fantasy 7, 8, and 10 that is most obvious in the characters or environments that I found to be immensely entertaining and likable. Each character has a complex background story to them as well which pushes the epic, lore-rich story further along. The only A truly excellent title with the feel of Final Fantasy 10 in terms of camera or graphics, with the classic sensibilities from Final Fantasy 7, 8, and 10 that is most obvious in the characters or environments that I found to be immensely entertaining and likable. Each character has a complex background story to them as well which pushes the epic, lore-rich story further along. The only problems are the quite often insanely hard battles, mostly the boss battles, but this finally makes strategy an important option by finally forcing you to use Elemental Resistance accessories you'd never use in other RPG's; even buffs such as Protect or Shell which you'd never use in some Final Fantasy games. Another problem is the slow starting point to the game, where the game follows a linear path for the first 15 hours or so, but it slowly opens up and gets better as you gain more abilities at your disposal and the beautiful world opens up to you. It is understandable for some to not like this game, but many Final Fantasy fans and veterans such as me will love this game! For newcomers, a lore rich world and intense combat system awaits!… Expand
  23. robynk
    Mar 13, 2010
    9
    Quite good overall. I expect a lot of traditional fans will not like it as much as previous titles due to the gameplay changes (honestly it almost handles more like a recent-gen Shin Megami Tensei title). That said, it is - of course - very pretty, and the characters are engaging and likable. Those saying the plot and map are too linear must have chronic amnesia, as 13 is really no more Quite good overall. I expect a lot of traditional fans will not like it as much as previous titles due to the gameplay changes (honestly it almost handles more like a recent-gen Shin Megami Tensei title). That said, it is - of course - very pretty, and the characters are engaging and likable. Those saying the plot and map are too linear must have chronic amnesia, as 13 is really no more linear a plot or map than 10 was and it does nothing to detract from the story - which is the whole idea. Kudos, Square, I liked this one and will be replaying it.… Expand
  24. JeremyN
    Mar 14, 2010
    9
    I must be missing something. This, to me, is the best RPG to come out in a long time. Possible dislikes: Battle system due to it being rather new, and the linearity. I'll start with the battle system. Generally speaking, you're not choosing each character's actions, since the auto select is intelligent enough and you want to keep the chain level high. But really, I must be missing something. This, to me, is the best RPG to come out in a long time. Possible dislikes: Battle system due to it being rather new, and the linearity. I'll start with the battle system. Generally speaking, you're not choosing each character's actions, since the auto select is intelligent enough and you want to keep the chain level high. But really, you're avoiding grunt work, and making higher level decisions about the way you want your party to work together. And, strange as it may seem, I found this to be the most strategic and engaging battle system that I've ever seen in an RPG. The linearity thing... well, I haven't gotten all the way through yet, though I'm sure that at some point soon I'll be getting an airship or something. I don't stress linearity in RPGs - they're all going to the same ending. They've been programmed in advance, people. Actually, I'd rather have an RPG that revels in its linearity, making one very strong core story (FFXIII is the most mature/followable story in the franchise as far as I can tell), as opposed to giving the illusion of control at the expense of real quality story telling. Anyway, I think that FFXIII is the best RPG I've played in over 10 years. I just get the feeling that square/enix paid the wrong people to write reviews, or didn't pay the right people. I truly don't understand how reviewers can have such high praise for anything Bioware, and then turn around and spit on this amazing game.… Expand
  25. PeterM
    Mar 15, 2010
    9
    The story is gripping and immediately accessible. More-so than previous games in the series. It has likable characters that all compliment each other very well to create an intriguing ensemble. The new battle system is arguably the most exciting in the series although it does take a long time to get going. You are very much molly coddled for a long time at the start until you get to an The story is gripping and immediately accessible. More-so than previous games in the series. It has likable characters that all compliment each other very well to create an intriguing ensemble. The new battle system is arguably the most exciting in the series although it does take a long time to get going. You are very much molly coddled for a long time at the start until you get to an adequate level. A very good game that has all the components to be exceptional. The linearity of large parts of the early game do feel like a step back in terms of gameplay but this is for the benefit of the story and character development. If Gaming is to be seen as a serious media form then all aspects of this game are an excellent example to all those nay sayers of fantastic story telling intermingled with intelligent game play.… Expand
  26. KarlaM
    Mar 13, 2010
    10
    I've only been playing for 4 days, and I can honestly say the perfection of this game has surprised me. I have been a fan of the series since Mystic Quest, and I have played all the installments, I expect nothing but the best from the saga, but I did not expect something like this! The gameplay is awesome and the graphics are mouth-watering in a colorful and detailed sense. A I've only been playing for 4 days, and I can honestly say the perfection of this game has surprised me. I have been a fan of the series since Mystic Quest, and I have played all the installments, I expect nothing but the best from the saga, but I did not expect something like this! The gameplay is awesome and the graphics are mouth-watering in a colorful and detailed sense. A downfall for me in the game is the soundtrack. I have been used to Nobuo Uematsu's awesome composing and since the game is directed by Tetsuya Nomura, I expected the WHOLE team to be the same. The music doesn't take me inside the game like other soundtracks did. The story isn't really interesting to me to the point where I can't stop playing it to see what happens next, but the battle system is SO FUN I keep playing anyway. I think it has proven itself in the few days I've played that it will be a game to remember because it is THE FIRST OF ITS KIND.… Expand
  27. diddykong63
    Oct 12, 2011
    10
    I have played this game 3 times from start to finish. The game is visually insane and shows how much square's engine can dish out compared to unreal engine. The combat is a mix of turn based combat combined with real time. You select your characters actions and watch them move around the battlefield although you cannot directly control your character, although the arenas are so small itsI have played this game 3 times from start to finish. The game is visually insane and shows how much square's engine can dish out compared to unreal engine. The combat is a mix of turn based combat combined with real time. You select your characters actions and watch them move around the battlefield although you cannot directly control your character, although the arenas are so small its doubtful it would have any different impact if you were able to do otherwise. Going through the bosses on my first playthrough, I thought each one was perfectly oriented for a person with that much experience in the game. The end bosses were very hard and tested my mettle even with optimal strategies. Going though the game the second time, the beginning bosses were significantly easier because of my experience but the end bosses were as hard as ever. If there is anything I could complain about, it is how *possible spoilers* all the postgame content is developing your characters and weapons to the max and all sidequests are just monster hunting missions, although it is a small gripe as the endgame is optional and really only for achievement hunters *end possible spoilers* The characters are very believable and the only ones i thought were really annoying were sazh and snow with a dash of hope. the game challenges you to think about the best role configurations to defeat monsters. The story is epic in the highest sense as the story is not very outlandish (for a fantasy game). While the chapter and the linear progression are also minor gripes, it is acceptable because of the story.I could not recommend this game enough to anyone. All that is left for me now is to wait for 13-2 and versus 13… Expand
  28. DayumShame
    Oct 27, 2011
    9
    This game is a good game. The combat is certainly very boring if you choose auto-battle but if you actually choose your attacks (Yes you can do this) it becomes more challenging and certainly more engaging as you need to make quick decisions based on what enemies you are facing. I for one liked the characters and felt that they all developed well throughout the story which was overall,This game is a good game. The combat is certainly very boring if you choose auto-battle but if you actually choose your attacks (Yes you can do this) it becomes more challenging and certainly more engaging as you need to make quick decisions based on what enemies you are facing. I for one liked the characters and felt that they all developed well throughout the story which was overall, very entertaining. People complain about the linearity but I for one don't see it as so much of a problem, FFX was linear too and has a large group of stalwart fans. It does get tedious at some points in the beginning but the fact that they have such an amazing graphics engine and that the scenery is so interesting helped me keep going. Each area has a fitting and well composed theme, the enemy designs are detailed and interesting. Unfortunately the best part comes towards the end, when the game world opens up a little and you get sent on side quests somewhat reminiscent of the Hunts from FFXII. The main problem with this game is the Final Fantasy title. This game would have done well and sold well on it's own merits, (not as well as it did but certainly not abysmally.), but by making it a Final Fantasy game Square instantly set it up to be compared against it's predecessors. When you do that, there are many more Final Fantasy titles I would recommend before this one, I still do recommend it but there are definitely others you should play first. However I am very glad to see that Square is listening to their fans and are making XIII-2 into what this game should have been. Adding what they left out and refining that which needed it. At $20 this game is worth picking up for what it is, not for what the other Final Fantasy games are.… Expand
  29. Soujirop
    Apr 23, 2014
    9
    I honestly don't know why you would objectively give this game a bad score. Amazing graphics, amazing music, amazing story. The only thing you can complain is that in terms of gameplay it is quite limited for an RPG, specially for a Final Fantasy. But it is clear they have focused a lot on the story, which is the keystone of Final Fantasy, its essence, and this game haven't lost that ATI honestly don't know why you would objectively give this game a bad score. Amazing graphics, amazing music, amazing story. The only thing you can complain is that in terms of gameplay it is quite limited for an RPG, specially for a Final Fantasy. But it is clear they have focused a lot on the story, which is the keystone of Final Fantasy, its essence, and this game haven't lost that AT ALL. Also the new combat system is great and seems the natural evolution of the classic turn-based combat, and battles are very challenging, some are among the most difficult of the entire saga.… Expand
  30. Rox22
    Sep 11, 2013
    8
    Another good but flawed FF game, Square really do have a pattern going here. At least it'S a positive one.

    FF XIII has gotten ALLOT of criticism on it's linearity, but in fairness the linear gameplay was a necessity to drive the story forward, so I can forgive it. In fact, once it opens up (after you finish the game) there is a ton of exploration that can be done a but loads of    Another good but flawed FF game, Square really do have a pattern going here. At least it'S a positive one.

    FF XIII has gotten ALLOT of criticism on it's linearity, but in fairness the linear gameplay was a necessity to drive the story forward, so I can forgive it. In fact, once it opens up (after you finish the game) there is a ton of exploration that can be done a but loads of challenges just begging to be completed.

    The graphics and animation are some of the best the series has ever seen. Every cutscene is breathtakingly beautiful. Lightning is just a great protagonist that comes off a bit flat and mysterious at first, but as the game progresses you learn that she has so much depth, she just hides it very well. The other characters are alright. Fang is damn hot!!!! Hope is so damn whiny and I really do not like his personality.

    Combat is a little confusing at first, but once you get the hang of it and all options open up it is allot of fun as it relies on the player using more tact than finesse (ie what the action-junkies complain about.)

    Overall:
    Final Fantasy XIII is pretty much a standard FF game as a whole. It lacks the openness the previous games had, but in exchange we get a far rich story and plot.    … Expand
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Awards & Rankings

45
#45 Best Xbox 360 Game of 2010
12
#12 Most Discussed Xbox 360 Game of 2010
22
#22 Most Shared Xbox 360 Game of 2010

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
82

Generally favorable reviews - based on 54 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 43 out of 54
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 54
  3. Negative: 2 out of 54
  1. GamesRadar+
    100
    The streamlined, focused structure eliminates potential tedium without dumbing anything down, and the battle system strikes an elegant balance between strategy and fast-paced action. Stunningly beautiful graphics and a pervasively meticulous level of polish throughout only add to the experience.
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  2. Vandal
    92
    We can't assure it is a turning point in the series, but it manages to make fights fun and it's no doubt an outstanding game.
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  3. Official Xbox Magazine
    90
    While the game's first 10 hours still give me pause, the 60 magnificent hours after those initial steps onto Cocoon make up for the tunnel-vision tutorial. [Apr 2010, p.68]
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