What do you predict your opinion of FFXIII will be?

[ZenfoldorVGI]

I'm going to guess that it'll be my 4th favorite RPG this generation. Specifically:

1. Fallout 3
2. Mass Effect 2
3. Fire Emblem Radiant Dawn
4. FFXIII
5. Tales of Symphonia
6. Valkyria Chronicles
7. Demon's Souls
8. Persona 4
9. Bowser's Inside Story
10. TWEWY

I believe that all big games garner huge amounts of hate on internet forums, no matter how great they are, assuming they aren't console exclusives.(See GTAIV)

With popularity, comes a counterculture.

Also, of note, FF is a series that changes with every entry. Most gamers(especially hardcore gamers) want their games to stay the same. They loved FFVII, and the farther FF gets away from that formula, the more they will complain. FFXIII isn't, nor could it have possibly been what they expected or hoped for. Just like FFVIII(my personal favorite game of the series).

What people don't realize is that FFVII dissapointed a lot of FFVI fanboys at the time as well. You can't really tell how great a game it is until years after its release(See the rise in popularity for the much hated VIII and IX in modern times, as compared to the mass lamentation after their release).

I do, however, understand why most reviewers will give this FF a lower review than it probably deserves. I have noticed a lot of caving to the fanbase in modern times, and it's actually hip for reviewers to seem "part of the crowd" and "harsh." In previous years, it was not, and FF is the perfect target. Especially considering the polarizing nature of the fact that the game was one time exclusive. Many reviewers will assert their own brand of justice for that little betrayal by Square Enix.

Truth is, the game will be quality to the core, all FF games have been, and the only qualms people will or ever should have with the games, is in the specific design choices, and not the way said choice were implemented. If you like quality in all areas of a game, and are willing to look past what particular tastes the game is actually targeting, then you'll love every game in the series, including this one.

If, however, you are a slave to your preferences, you are likely going to be disappointed by any game that doesn't cater to them, and FF likes to change that target with each entry since VII.