Cert: 16+
Platform: PS3/Xbox 360
Genre: RPG
Now in it's thirteenth incarnation, the much beloved Final Fantasy franchise has returned with Final Fantasy XIII.
Much like it's predecessors, your job here is to guide a number of different characters - here it's six - through the two worlds, Cocoon and Pulse, both of which, like the opening cut-scene, ably equal anything makers Square Enix have presented before.
Quite simply, it looks stunning. Taking control of each character at different times, each has their own unique skill of 'role', which determines how the action scenes are played out. It's a nice feature as it mixes things up and stops the possibility of the battles becoming monotonous and stale. The battle system itself will be familiar to anyone familiar with the franchise - organize your team into positions before battle, then choose from a number of different attack modes to strike your opponent.
The system will not be for everyone, but for an RPG it's all delivered in a way that makes sense, and as the game progresses, with the inevitable upgrade options available, there's a level a depth there that only FF games can deliver. Few games can match the series presentation, and FF XIII delivers stunning, cinematic cut scenes, a gripping story, and a sense atmosphere few other games can match.
It may only appeal to Final Fantasy die-hards, but for those it will not disappoint.
Rent or Buy: Buy
Graphics: 4/5
Gameplay: 3/5
Replay Value: 4/5
Overall: 3/5
Reviewed By: Simon Rubbathan