I have read a lot of bad review about FF XIII saying the game is linear (Which FF isn't), no towns (I heard you can still buy stuff on save point so not going to miss the towns that much) and a lot of other things.
I know that if you are a true FF series fan, than there is a high probability that you will enjoy FF XIII. I am a big fan of the series since FF1 on the NES. As a FF series fan this is what I really care about in a FF game:
1) Story: If the story and the plot is good then no problem for me and FF stories has always been good so far in my opinion
2) Battle: If battles are strategic skill and character building then good for me
3) Side Quest: If there are things that can make me stronger and do a little detour to get thoses things and if the challenge is worth the price then I am good
4) Grinding sometimes a MUST: I don't usually run from battle in order to reach higher levels
5) The plot twist: I like them to be unexpected
Edit: 6) Lets not forget the importance of an AMAZINGLY CRAZY Villain (My favorites are: Kefka, Sephirot, Kuja)
If the game has those six parts mentioned above then I am pretty sure that I will totally enjoy this game.
