Should any fan of the FF series be worried about FF XIII?

[DragonLord]

I don't care about the linear story...I actually prefer that.  I am a little bit worried about a few other things such as the battles being strategic enough and not having much as far as items....and no leveling up.  But only time will tell.  As long as the story is really good and the game last me about 70 hours, I'll be content.