Review: Final Fantasy XII - Unparalleled RPG action on the PS2

Mike Bantick
Monday, 19 February 2007 15:38

Opinion and Analysis

If ever there was a reason to hang on to, or purchase the PlayStation 2, it is Square Enix's extraordinary epic high-fantasy opus Final Fantasy XII.

I must confess, the lot of this game reviewer is such, that sequel games may well get overlooked from time to time, in favour of newer franchises.  I haven't looked at a Final Fantasy game since the excellent FFVII (1997).

Final Fantasy XII
	Developer:	Square Enix
	Publisher:	Square Enix
	Distributor	Ubisoft
	Rating:	M
PS2

I knew that number 12 in the increasingly inaccurately titled Final Fantasy series had received high praise overseas - it was time to check in on the series once more, especially as the PAL release is imminent.  And a joy it is.

Let us start with the basics.  FFXII eschews Tolkien fantasy (IE Elves, goblins etc) for a world of it's own, with a kind of steam punk feel of sky pirates and overlap of technology, think pistols, swords and magic.

Available only on the PS2, FFXII pushes the aging platform to its limits with over 100 hours of gaming if you search each nook and cranny, all brought to life quite well, with graphics that do well to immerse the player in a myriad of environments that make up the FFXII world.  As the adventure progresses you will guide your party from deserts to magnificent architectures of large cities, and deep into their dank dungeons.

Story wise, FFXII throws an overarching stirring of resistance in the land of Dalmasca after its fall to the aggressive empire of Archadia.  As the young Vaan, you will uncover the many plot twists and intrigue surrounding the people of a land under oppressive rule.

Actually the rule is not overly oppressive, and as such Vaan is able to traverse the cities and countryside with relative impudence.  On one of his journeys he will meet Sky pirate Balthier and his sidekick Fran, as well as the mysterious Bosch who make up the core of the party.

Continue to page two.