Ok, so looking at the screenshots for this game may give you the impression that this game has not aged particularly well since its release. Graphics-wise, that is pretty clearly true. Please do not let that put you off, however, as that would keep you from playing and enjoying what is I believe pretty much without question the greatest RPG that has ever been made The story (no spoilers) is incredible, and had me absolutely hooked from the start (even though I hadn't played the first one). The main quest is immense, and will take at least 20-30 hours to fight through (in a hurry). The real joy for me in playing this game is the characters and the sidequests. Each playable character (and a good bunch of non-playable ones too!) has a rich, moving and varied backstory behind them, with everything masterfully written and impeccably voice acted. After 10 hours of playing your companions really do start to feel like family (weird I know, but true). I have played through this game maybe 5 or 6 times over the years, and every time I choose different characters to take with me just to hear their stories and the different ways they interact with each other (and the different unique sidequests each one brings). Every time I play this game through I find new quests, new areas, new items, new characters and new stories - I don't know that its possible for any one person to have experienced them all. Even if everything else about this game sucked, the storylines alone would make it worth the purchase, but fortunately the gameplay is also top notch. If you just bum-rush into groups of enemies you *will* be slaughtered - taking time to plan out your battle strategies and pick your tactics before charging in is the difference between life and very quick death - and many of the boss battles are so tough it will still take a few tries to bring them down, but the reward when you finally emerge victorious makes it worth it all. To sum up: this game is great and you should buy it!
