The next big step since Final Fantasy VII.
The game is the next big step because it features voice acting and great facial expression. The story is amazing and sucks you in early and with the believable characters you never have a dull moment.
The reason the difficulty is set at "Just Right" is because despite most of the game being easy, there are a few boss battles and enemies that really require luck if you are not prepared and a lot of planning before making a move.
I owned the American version so it did not come with the dark aeons and other optional bosses, this would of added a lot more hours to the game since you have to have near perfect stats to fight Penance. The American version was great with what it came with and is still rated a 10 for me, the extras would of just added more play time for the hardcore fans.
The sound, graphics, battle system, story, characters, and deep customization are everything you would expect from Square Enix and Final Fantasy.