Final Fantasy X HD Preview

Final fantasy X HD Preview

Final Fantasy X is probably my favourite PS2 RPG of all time so I was happy to hear that Square-Enix had decided to release a HD remake of the classic, but is it actually needed?

HD remakes are a license to print easy money, with many people buying copies of games they've owned previously as well as opening up titles for younger players who weren't around to experience it the first time.

The business model is heavily tilted in Squeenix's favour, as most PS3's wont play PS2 discs and old copies of FFX are getting harder to find, so if you want to play FFX on your PS3, you're forced to buy the shiny new HD remake/remaster.

So, what are the actual differences from the 2001 PS2 release? This article highlights the graphical differences which are to be expected but gameplay wise, there seems to be little to no difference.

The PS3 disc version will include the sequel: FFX-2 which is an added bonus (who doesn't like a free PS3 game?) but it doesn't really justify the large price for a 12+ year old game with decent graphical touch-ups.

Square have a history of charging large amounts for old software and they're certainly fans of the re-release, but many of their fans would have preferred a remaster of the PS1 epic, FF7.

This isn't to say that the new game isn't wanted, only that it could have been released sooner for a lower price as a PS2 classic, rather than a bundled HD remaster.

The remaster does include the dark aeons and other feature of the international version but that was the version that I (and many others) played originally, so can't really be included as new content.

FFX is a great game in its own right, with memorable characters, some great set pieces, a fun battle system and a true douchebag as your nemesis. I replayed the game for quite some time recently and it wasn't creaky, although some of the voice-acting was worse than I remembered (but it isn't really that bad).

Maybe I was a little biased due to 'rose-tinted spectacles' but I think it's the best turn-based RPG I've played since Lost Odyssey on the 360.

PS Vita owners will also be able to purchase the game and news of the release date is going to be 'released very soon'. However, It has been reported that the sequel will be sold separately on the handheld which is a disappointment for Vita owners.

Despite the lack of 'major' changes, interest for the game is high and the re-release will probably do well commercially. If you haven't played it I suggest you pick it up when it comes out as it really is a well-made game with over 40 hours of gameplay and it deserves the 92% rating on metacritic.

FFX does have some weird moments and some of the character development is laid on a little too thickly for my liking, but overall the game is fun, with decent ideas like the sphere grid and character switching mid-battle implemented well.

Non HD Version Score: 9/10

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