Final Fantasy X truly transcends games of all varieties. Final Fantasy X is a masterpiece.
In terms of gameplay, Final Fantasy X offers much the same as its predecessors in VII, VIII and IX. You will experience the same conventional, addictive turn based battle style. However unlike its direct predecessor IX, Final Fantasy X does not feature active time battles, meaning you can take your time and choose your next move wisely without being attacked in the process. If I were to fault the gameplay, it would have to be the annoying element posed by the random encounter mechanic. Sometimes you just want to get somewhere fast, without being attacked by a monster every 20 meters.
Final Fantasy IX was a graphical marvel for the playstation 1. And Final Fantasy X is no different. X features high quality character models which lend well to the realism of the characters and the narrative. While you still don't have control over the camera, the backgrounds are now, for the first time, completely 3D. X also features stellar art design, just like the previous installments. You will see the fabled chocobos, airships and weapons which have all taken their place as part of the Final Fantasy mythology. Finally, Final Fantasy X features amazing CGI cutscenes, which occur frequent enough to satisfy, but not so much that they appear bland. However be warned, at times Final Fantasy X can feel like more of a movie than a game.
The sound in Final Fantasy X is pretty much what you would expect. An assortment of extravagant and beautiful orchestral tunes, that blend almost perfectly with the game play. Voice acting is top notch. The only thing I could fault, was the fact that in the English version the characters mouths weren't synced with the words. However this is barely noticeable.
People often criticize games for having bland, unoriginal narrative structure, but does this apply to X? The short answer is no. Final Fantasy X features an amazingly ambitious and original narrative featuring a cast of characters that you will love, and love to hate. In previous reviews people have criticized X for being unoriginal because it features a love element. I urge you to completely neglect these reviews, because the surrounding story is that innovative, you would have a hard time finding a single aspect to fault.
Final Fantasy X features extensive post game features. While not anywhere near as satisfying as its successor XII, Final Fantasy X offers players the opportunity to completely max their characters out, in the truest sense of the word.
As a closing note, Final Fantasy X truly transcends games of all varieties. Regardless of wether or not you are an RPG fan, you should buy this game. Final Fantasy X is a masterpiece, and one of the best games not only on the playstation 2, but even the next generation of consoles. Period.
Graphics: 8/10
Artistic design: 9.5/10
Gameplay: 9/10
Narrative: 10/10
Characters: 9.5/10
Replay value: 9.5/10
Post game: 9.5/10
Sound: 9.5/10
Voice acting: 9.5/10
Overall: 9.5/10