Perhaps I'm missing something. Just kidding. The rest of you are missing something. I never miss anything. Ever.
This is an RPG on rails, as in shooter on rails. Rather than provide you with a large world map to explore and upon which to get lost and complete your mandatory level grind, the game gives new definition to the term "linear progression" by advancing you forward on a map that moves in a straight line. You get the feeling that you are not so much in a vast post-apocalyptic rustic-futuristic world than you are in a long tunnel with the entry far ahead. You will miss flying. You will miss chocobo-riding (Don't say "But Donny, there are chocobos to ride on the world map!" Screw you. There are two chocobos on one part of the map that you can ride, roughly 12 hours into the game, and you cannot ride them outside this area).
And then the story, which is actually one of the higher points of the game. Graphically, taken into consideration the game was a released a few years ago, it is quite impressive. The in-engine cutscenes feature some hysterically bad animations, but the FMV's are truly awe-inspiring. If anything, play this game for the FMV's. This is also the first Final Fantasy to feature voice acting, and at times I was begging for a mute option.
The grid system is just a mess. I personally cannot stand the thing. I have the patience to deal with the dungheap system in Final Fantasy Tactics Advance, yet I cannot bring myself to enjoy using the grid.
Value-wise, the game is long and it has Final Fantasy emblazed upon it, and that you can buy it for $20 or less new (And even less than that used) makes it all the more attractive.
In the end, this is a hit-or-miss RPG that will most likely be recalled as the last great Final Fantasy. It will be good as a nostalgia piece a few years from now, and it may well warrant a purchase, but you will most likely feel pretty claustrophobic and aggrivated before you finish the game. Buyer beware.