Final Fantasy XIII PlayStation 3
User Score
7.9 out of 10

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1766 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,338 out of 1766
  2. Mixed: 116 out of 1766
  3. Negative: 312 out of 1766

Review this game

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
view
per page
  1. FrankG
    Mar 27, 2010
    9
    All the negative reviews I'm seeing seemed to be purely stemming from hate. People complaining about the fact that there are no towns/world map to explore is because all the characters are on BORROWED TIME. They don't have the time to be flying around a world exploring every nook and cranny. Did you pay attention to what being a l'Cie means? Probably not. Why don't you go and read the datalog for once, it's there for a reason, it explains everything for you. The characters do have some depth to their personalities, Vanille and Sazh being the most noteworthy. Graphics are absolutely killer on an HDTV. Would like to point out to Brett J that most people don't "get outside to play another game", plus your only comparisons are action/shooter games, have you tried a JRPG? Everyone's going to bash this game MORE because it's a Final Fantasy, if this game had another name made by some unheard of company, its reviews would have been unmatched. Key point is, if you sit through the first few chapters of the game, which are admittedly slow to get through, the abilities and choices present with the paradigm/battle system open up tremendously. Want your healer to double as a tank? Go for it; switch from mage to sword-slashing damage dealer? Choice is yours. The difficulty scales quite well and the challenge never backs down. I love this game, there's plenty to be doing. People need to understand that since the characters are all l'Cie, they cannot go to towns and talk to people, they are outcasts, they do everything on their own, I've accepted that, the game has CLEARLY defined this boundary; get over it. Thank you Square Enix, you've made an awesome game.… Expand
  2. AndrewG
    Apr 11, 2010
    10
    Take a game, add in a great plot, characters that throughout the game will have you guessing who they are and why they are doing what they are doing, give you bits and pieces that will slowly unravel the mystery. Add in a antagonist that you aren't even sure who he is or why he is doing what he is doing. Add in a new and exciting battle system that slowly evolves and picks up to a exciting conclusion. Add all of that to upgradeable equipment, a world that ends with hunts to do and many things to make a 60-100 hour game that is well worth it. besides the linearity of the beginning of the game there isn't much that can be said bad about it. they hit the most imporatant parts, gameplay and story. The game highly deserves a 9.2-10.… Expand
  3. VeryCutePanda
    Aug 29, 2010
    9
    Fans will continue to debate but I think the 13th installment of Final Fantasy is a delightful experience. As long as Square Enix are willing to try something new, I will give them a fair chance. Sure, the linear gameplay, uninspiring plot and the lack of interaction between the characters and the environment doesn't provide a fulfilling gaming experience, one cannot deny that it's easily the best gameplay in the series. The breathtaking graphics that vows me make forget the lack depth design interaction wise and some characters are memorable (sort of), the score provided is also an improvement from the previous installment. In some ways this game can easily be criticized for not following its roots, but as long as try and make it a fresh experience, it's a risk worth taking, hopefully they can improve themselves after this.… Expand
  4. Chronolp5
    Dec 3, 2010
    9
    Although, Final Fantasy XIII feels different from past entries in the series, it couldn't have existed without all the hard work Square Enix has put into the twelve titles before it. The battle system is the product of years of experimentation, innovation, and refinement. The game world is part of a fairly consistent vision that Square Enix has been developing with each new installment.

    F    inally, all of the streamlined and convenient game design choices have been the result of honest reflection and recognition that certain design choices from past JRPGs no longer work. Thus, Final Fantasy XIII is the product of past JRPGs, as well as, a wonderful evolution of the genre. Most importantly, Square Enix's latest JRPG epic proudly continues the series' tradition of being an RPG that offers engrossing combat systems and unforgettable adventures. Simply put, Final Fantasy XIII shouldn't be missed.… Expand
  5. Truth1065
    May 13, 2012
    9
    Final Fantasy XIII looks amazing. Everything is so detailed and gorgeous with great characters to flesh out it's interesting world, but unfortunately half of the game is very linear and you can't fully customize your party until the 20 hour mark. I can actually understand the linearity because it fits in with the opening chapters of the story which is good because there's a great story here and a more better one than FFXII. There are hunt quests present similar to XII's and they are challenging and fun. The non-linear part of the game on the world of Gran Pulse is big with new regions to unlock. FFXIII's battle system is my personal favourite but the lengthy tutorials in the beginning of the game may put some players off. The music is fantastic and some are memorable like the battle theme. I spent over 60 hours with this game with over 40 hours just on Gran Pulse. Overall it's a great game that will be liked by some and disliked by others.… Expand
  6. Volney
    Feb 13, 2012
    9
    game play and plot that is emotionally driven and to the point without the abundance of side quests that are common in the series, personally i would not change a single minute of the experience
  7. 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 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
  8. Arigatobro
    Mar 2, 2012
    10
    This game is just amazing.If you give it a chance and play it for more than 5 hours you won't regret it.Graphics is one of the best as of today.Music made by Masashi Hamauzu is great and in my opinion,only FFX's soundtrack is better.All the characters are really charismatic and you will see how each of them will develop trough the story.CG scenes are absolutely magnificent.The battle system looks too easy in the beginning,but after you progress through the story a little bit,you will see how deep and enjoyable it can be.
    Don't listen to people that give this game 0 and consider it the worst in the series.I completed all of the FF's from 1 to 13(excluding the online ones) and FF13(alongside FF10) is my favorite game of all time.    … Expand
  9. Merr
    Dec 28, 2012
    10
    One of the best games of this generation of consoles. Beautiful graphics, interesting story, great world, deep characters, nice battle system.

    Only - is closed-corridors levels.
  10. colingriffin4
    Jul 15, 2012
    9
    Despite the problems with linearity and lack of towns and restricted freedom, this game is still fun. Call me a old-school gamer but as long as a game is fun its worth a chance. The game also makes up for linearity with its stunning graphics, brilliant battle systems, and interesting characters leaving me with one of my favorite games.
  11. LelouchR2
    Jul 23, 2012
    10
    Final Fantasy XIII is a game that has garnered quite a bit of backlash for largely misunderstood reasons. The game is linear yes, is that a negative aspect of the game? no it is not. Is the plot really that convoluted? no it isn't, you aren't even required to read the datalog that so many people dislike. The story of Final Fantasy XIII is it's strong point. The main character of the game is a young woman named Lightning. The story begins with her attempt to rescue her younger sister from the clutches of a god like being known as a fal'Cie. From there Lightning and her friends are put on the path of an adventure that will test both their battle prowess and who they are as human beings, calling into questions their morals.

    The battle system is a fresh take on the ATB system. Being able to que up to six consecutive attacks is something that the series has needed for a long time. The system revolves around two things, first is the paradigm shift system, which is the roles that you assign to your characters, second is the stagger meter, a bar that once full staggers said opponent and lowers their defence allowing you to inflict massive damage. The battle system has been criticized by "fans" of the series saying that it only consists of pressing X. That is not true but even if it were, what series have they been playing for all these years? Every FF game requires an over abundance of the use of X, that is just selective whining. XIII will require you to use the L1, directional pad and X in battle, not just one, unless you want to lose that is. The biggest bright points among Final Fantasy XIII when compared to the rest of the series is the protagonist of the game, Lightning, the character development of the party and their interactions of a group. Lightning has been compared to Cloud on a lot of message boards, but that isn't an apt comparison, there is a world of difference between the two. The development and characterization that Lightning undergoes through the game is a lot more human than anything Cloud has to offer. She is a very strong female lead that is so relatable that almost any player should be able to relate to her.

    The character development of the party as a whole is done a lot better than in previous iterations. Each character will come to realizations throughout the quest that will change who they are and how they view the world. The chemistry of the group also makes their interactions that much more meaningful. Another criticism is just how linear the game is. It's true that the game is indeed linear but it is done for a purpose. Final Fantasy XIII is a story driven game, moreso than it's predecessors. The linearity of the game is used as a story telling tool to help put you into Lightning and co's shoes. They are on the run and have no where to go but forward, they cannot stop to shop and lolly gag in towns because they are fugitives. The game is simply being realistic in it's plot and should be commended for taking such an effective approach to telling the story of Lightning so that you could relate to her situation and how she would be feeling. The soundtrack is also top notch, including beautiful orchestral pieces that fit perfectly with each scene. It adds another layer to the storytelling.

    Overall Final Fantasy XIII deserves a ten out of ten for it's epic plot, memorable protagonist and addicting battle system. There is not a better release in the series than this one. Definitely worth playing through.    … Expand
  12. GaaraDDragon
    Aug 15, 2012
    10
    I give FF XIII a solid ten because it is the most bold game to come out of Japan in years. People go on about how bad of an rpg it is, when this game is not really an rpg, neither was it designed as one. It's a brilliant combination of action, rpg and strategy.

    It's a bold game because it completely ignored gaming trends and presented something unique. In terms of battle it was not abou    t simple grinding and leveling but about thinking, planing ahead and acting fast. But at the same time it was an evolution of previous battle systems as well. In terms of story it broke from the classic protagonist versus antagonist duel theme into a drama that was centered around the team itself and the in-between the members friction. It is a pretty linear game since for one it is heavily action influenced but mainly because it was designed as a huge story driven ride, more than any FF before. While controversial, it played the factor of story delivery to the best possible degree.

    FF XIII is a game that has been heavily criticized for all the things it was not. I rather focused on all the things it was.

    It features one of the greatest protagonists in any FF game. An environment that is not only based on graphics but unmatched aesthetics as well. The scenario is probably the most complicated and hard to follow, compared to any other FF game to date. Holding its own rather well into 2012.

    Majestic sites, some very hard and rewarding battles, fast paced action, dazzling pre-rendered CGI movie in blu ray quality and an epic story to unveil.    … Expand
  13. GameEngineer94
    Aug 8, 2012
    10
    Look I KNOW this is not your typical FF game but that doesn't mean it is bad or that it abandoned its roots and all that BS, ALL the bad reviews for this game be it users or critics center around just one point: that it is not your typical FF game and by that most of the people mean FF 7 and FF 10, I am a gamer for more than 15 years and you know what: this game is AWESOME and then some and the only thing that will bug you a bit is the weird ending (sad) but it has a sequel.
    I am a guy who respects other people's opinions but with all due respect to the negative review guys; if gaming did not develop past its "roots" then you will be bored and your negative reviews will be about how repetitive the game is.
    TO SUMMARISE: this is a great game with great graphics, story, gameplay and above all else deep and engaging characters that you are going to love if you can see past auron, tidus, yuna, cloud and tifa.    … Expand
  14. Foutiner
    Dec 27, 2012
    9
    This game was alright. the story was kinda lack luster at first but it got a lil better. The game has beautiful cutscenes and the ATB works really well. I cant see why anyone hates this game I mean its not called Open world 13 or something like that Its called Final Fantasy 13. And some of the characters i want to kill but you have that with all games. There was a lack of Npcs but the amount of customization in your team was amazing.… Expand
  15. MDG397
    Feb 28, 2013
    9
    At first, I gave this game a 3. After I played it more, I know how good it really is. First off I'd just like to state the obvious, this game has some of the best graphics in a video game, and easily the best on console. It also has one of the best soundtracks that I've ever heard for a video game. As for the combat system, it is obviously different than all other Final Fantasies, but that's not a bad thing. The battle system is very rewarding and fun. It does have a big flaw though, the story really isn't as great as you would expect with Final Fantasy, but you should still try the game either way.… Expand
  16. CloudTheValkyre
    Mar 10, 2013
    10
    Almost as good as X and VII. Very well, made, as well as being a beautiful looking and sounding game. Like the previous installments, It has a wonderful story, and well developed characters. Some people, on the other hand, say it is to linear. I say that if you don't like it, go play another game.
  17. Momot98
    Mar 11, 2013
    9
    Final Fantasy is a great series, and many fans would agree that Final Fantasy XIII is the worst in the series, and I highly disagree, while it has some flaws, Final Fantasy XIII is a great game, which consistent gameplay, and a nice crystarium system. With 1,319 positive reviews, 108 mixed reviews, and 293 negative reviews, you will most likely enjoy this game.
  18. MissFelixia
    Mar 13, 2013
    10
    the storyline for this game keeps you hooked. the only shame is no backtravel and the fact that the game opens up really late into the game big sigh
next
Page:

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
83 out of 100

Generally favorable reviews - based on 83 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 73 out of 83
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 83
  3. Negative: 1 out of 83
  1. RPG Fan
    81
    As an RPG, it is an excellent experience that provides a beautifully crafted world and engaging battle system. However, as a Final Fantasy game, it falls short of expectations somewhat.
    Read full review
  2. Playstation Official Magazine UK
    90
    Ten hours in you might have doubts, but stay with it and you'll be smitten right through to the frankly unbelievable end. [Apr 2010, p.104]
  3. Everyeye.it
    85
    An unexpected Final Fantasy. The 13th chapter has a great story and some of the most incisive characters of the whole series, and even the battle system works very well, being deep and complex (even if you control only a single character). But on the other side the overwhelming linearity of the plot, the absence of cities to explore, and the small amount of side quest will disappoint fans' expectations.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »