Hmmm, I have no major problems with the game. The lead in isn't all that bad in context.
I think the problem is that Yahtzee has a very limited skill set, all those menus, stats, target selection, abillity selection, gear customization, and other aspects are why I like RPGs. Granted I generally tend to prefer WRPGs, but JRPGs are far from being bad at it.
Now, he did have some very valid complaints about pacing, and the fact that the game was ridiculously linear. But other than that he seemed to be involved in a stereotypical JRPG hate rant. Just because he admits his bias does not fully excuse him in this case.
I doubt it will happen but I would argue that as Final Fantasy XIII is intended as a long term time investment, and was intended as one, The Escapist should have him finish it and request a more professional review. Oh granted, he'll probably still hate it, but I'd like to hear more about Final Fantasy XIII specifically and less about his opinion on a given genere (which basically comes down to immediate gratification twitchy finger games being good, providing they fall solidly into a moderate difficulty range, and RPGs and anything turn or stat based being bad).
I think the problem is that Yahtzee has a very limited skill set, all those menus, stats, target selection, abillity selection, gear customization, and other aspects are why I like RPGs. Granted I generally tend to prefer WRPGs, but JRPGs are far from being bad at it.
Now, he did have some very valid complaints about pacing, and the fact that the game was ridiculously linear. But other than that he seemed to be involved in a stereotypical JRPG hate rant. Just because he admits his bias does not fully excuse him in this case.
I doubt it will happen but I would argue that as Final Fantasy XIII is intended as a long term time investment, and was intended as one, The Escapist should have him finish it and request a more professional review. Oh granted, he'll probably still hate it, but I'd like to hear more about Final Fantasy XIII specifically and less about his opinion on a given genere (which basically comes down to immediate gratification twitchy finger games being good, providing they fall solidly into a moderate difficulty range, and RPGs and anything turn or stat based being bad).