Although true hardcore FF fans may not love this game, it will amaze you and touch your heart no matter who you are.
Final Fantasy XIII has a very very good story, it may be a little bit clichê or cheesy at times, but it will certainly find its way into your heart and mind. The ending for me is especially amazing. The characters are very diverse and easy to like, although some may get on your nerves somewhat (*cough* Vanille *cough*). The game does a good job of fleshing out the characters and making you want them to life on and survive; stuff like that.
The graphics are in general very good, but when there are some special cutscenes, the graphics become near perfect.
The game play is fast and exciting, some fights however are quite challenging, so much in fact that I sometimes go into rage-mode...but well that's just me. I love the strategy in the Paradigm system and the weapons and the upgrades and accessories.
Well now about what I did NOT like. Yes the game is very linear (except for one bit at the end), and if you're reading this you probably have already heard about it. There are no towns, no NPCs, no in-depth and heavily branched out leveling-up system and most missions or chapters can only be approached a specific way, not much the way you want it. These issues anger many hardcore Final Fantasy gamers, and although it changes the game quite a bit, it's stiller very good.
This game, regardless of it's flaws, it beautiful, immersive, heart-warming, challenging, fun and rewarding. This game deserves a place in your game collection, because no RPG or videogame fan should miss out on this great adventure.