Summary
- Release Year: 2013
- Genres: Role-playing game (RPG)
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Xbox One
- Developers: Square Enix
- Publishers: Square Enix
Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII: A Race Against Time
Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII is a 2013 action role-playing game developed and published by Square Enix. It is the third and final installment in the Final Fantasy XIII trilogy, and follows Lightning as she travels through the dying world of Nova Chrysalia to save souls before the end of the world.
The game was released on November 21, 2013, for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. It received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its combat system, story, and characters. However, some criticized its linearity and time-limit mechanic.
Gameplay
Lightning Returns is an action role-playing game in which the player controls Lightning as she travels through the world of Nova Chrysalia. The game features a new battle system called the “Active Time Battle” (ATB) system, which allows the player to queue up attacks and abilities in real time. The player can also customize Lightning’s appearance and abilities using a variety of equipment and garments.
The game’s world is divided into four regions, each with its own unique set of challenges and enemies. The player must travel through these regions and complete quests in order to save souls. However, the player only has 13 days to complete their task, and the clock is constantly ticking down.
Story
Lightning Returns is set 500 years after the events of Final Fantasy XIII-2. The world of Nova Chrysalia is dying, and the only hope for salvation lies in the hands of Lightning. Lightning must travel through the world and save souls before the end of the world. However, with only 13 days remaining, not everyone can be saved.
Characters
- Lightning: The protagonist of the game, Lightning is a powerful warrior who is determined to save the world. She is armed with a variety of weapons and abilities, and she can customize her appearance and abilities using a variety of equipment and garments.
- Snow Villiers: A former member of NORA, Snow is a skilled swordsman who is determined to help Lightning save the world. He is a loyal friend and a powerful ally.
- Hope Estheim: A young man who is struggling to come to terms with his past, Hope is a powerful mage who is determined to help Lightning save the world. He is a kind and compassionate person, and he is always willing to help others.
- Sazh Katzroy: A former airship pilot, Sazh is a skilled marksman who is determined to help Lightning save the world. He is a wise and experienced man, and he is always there to offer advice and support.
Reception
Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII received generally positive reviews from critics. The game was praised for its combat system, story, and characters. However, some criticized its linearity and time-limit mechanic.
- IGN: 8.5/10
- GameSpot: 8/10
- Polygon: 7.5/10
- Eurogamer: 7/10
Legacy
Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII is a unique and ambitious game that has its share of flaws. However, it is also a game with a lot of heart and soul. The game’s story is engaging, the characters are well-developed, and the combat is fast-paced and exciting. If you’re a fan of Final Fantasy, or just looking for a great action RPG, then you should definitely check out Lightning Returns.
In-Depth Analysis
Combat System
The combat system in Lightning Returns is a fast-paced and exciting affair. The player can queue up attacks and abilities in real time, and can also customize Lightning’s abilities using a variety of equipment and garments. The combat system is designed to be challenging, but also fair. The player must learn to use Lightning’s abilities effectively in order to succeed.
Story
The story of Lightning Returns is a complex and engaging one. The game explores themes of hope, sacrifice, and redemption. The player is constantly faced with difficult choices, and must decide who to save and how to spend their time. The game’s ending is both satisfying and bittersweet, and leaves the player with a lot to think about.
Characters
The characters in Lightning Returns are well-developed and relatable. Lightning is a strong and determined protagonist, and the player can’t help but root for her as she tries to save the world. The supporting cast is also well-developed, and each character has their own unique story to tell.
Time-Limit Mechanic
The time-limit mechanic is one of the most unique and controversial aspects of Lightning Returns. The player only has 13 days to complete their task, and the clock is constantly ticking down. This can lead to a sense of urgency and stress, but it can also add to the game’s replay value. The player must carefully manage their time in order to succeed, and this can lead to some very tense and exciting moments.
Overall
Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII is a unique and ambitious game that has its share of flaws. However, it is also a game with a lot of heart and soul. The game’s story is engaging, the characters are well-developed, and the combat is fast-paced and exciting. If you’re a fan of Final Fantasy, or just looking for a great action RPG, then you should definitely check out Lightning Returns.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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