FFXII already succeed.  Although the total sell of FFXII in Japan are slightly lesser compare with FFX and FFVII (because alot of Japanese gamers are more likely and favorable to play on a traditional FF), I think it will sell far more copies in the Western countries than the previous series.  SE try to make new FF by not focus on Local sales but International sales.  The new FFXII systems with no doubt will be a more favorable system for most Western gamers.  Besides the storyline, I would say FFXII is nearly perfect for me. 

If my memory serves me right, no. I think only Belias, Mateus, Famfrit, Chaos and Shumihaza can be acquired in th story. All others are optional.Fantasy_Gamer

The espers that come with the story line are Belias, Mateus, Famfrit, Shumihaza, and Hashalim.  Chaos is an optional espers... is kind of complicate to get this esper as well.  Sorry to correct the info FG :)

It will be more bad if you will get the victory pose with "Congratulations!" every time you kill a monster. :PFantasy_Gamer

lol..... i guess thats true :P