So i just decided to play through FFXIII again in anticipation of XIII-2's Launch... And wow, The graphics for the PS3 version are AMAZING, the only thing realy lacking a bit is the grass.  Im not sure why i didnt notice it on my first play through but...

I migt go as far as to say it matches Uncharted 3 in alot of ways.

yeah the graphics are good

very smooth
lighting effects are very good

Very good graphics indeed but it's technically not as good as Uncharted 2 or 3. But as you mentionned I would have liked a bit more substance on the ground.

The overall game could have used more substance.

I totally agree

I thought the game was beautiful! And even though it didn't have as many polygons as game X or Y, I thought it looked the best due to it's FAR superior art style and effects

Also Lightning kinda had something to do with it

Yea the game is gorgeous.

The graphics are great, not because of how many polygons it has or other technical stuff like that, but because of the effects and overall polish. Everything looks flashy and sharp, the art style is great and animations are so smooth.

The CGI cutscenes are jaw dropping, they are so sharp and detailed, Youtube video compression does not do them justice.

They are. The graphics of FFXIII-2 are even better still, I can guarantee!

I've always felt the visuals of this game were fantastic, but overlooked for its more...polarizing features. Even in "professional" reviews.

I am highly enjoying this game now - more than on my first play-through for whatever reason, my expectations aren't getting in the way i guess lol. When i stop looking at it as a FF game and start looking at it as something new... It really is a very very good game.