Info about FINAL FANTASY® XIII-2:

Official game description:
Now enhanced for Windows PC, FINAL FANTASY XIII-2 is created with the aim of surpassing the quality of its predecessor in every way, featuring new gameplay systems and cutting-edge visuals and audio. In this game the player has the freedom to choose from a range of possibilities and paths; where their choices affect not only the immediate environment, but even shape time and space!  
It is no longer about facing destiny. Create a new future and change the world!  
*   **Now Enhanced for Windows PC**  
    Including a range of the downloadable content from the original console, plus the choice for either English or Japanese voiceovers, 60 frames-per-second graphics and customizeable rendering resolution (720p, 1080p, and more).  
*   **Larger, More Interactive Environments**  
    Places with multiple pathways to explore, and many secrets to find, offer players the chance to shape the adventure their way.  
*   **Time Travel - A New Dimension of Exploration**  
    The situation, scenery, flora, fauna and weather conditions all change, depending on when you visit locations. Untangling the threads of time is essential in witnessing the full story!  
*   **Enhanced Battle System**  
    New elements such as visually dynamic Cinematic Action sequences, and an innovative battle clock that will either reward or punish players, create further variety and choice for the player.  
*   **Master of Monsters**  
    A wide variety of over 150 different monsters inhabiting the game world can be recruited into the player’s party and battle strategy, with each creature having unique and devastating special abilities!

Release date: Dec 11, 2014

Categories: JRPG, Time-based Mechanics, Character Progression, Monster Collecting, Turn-based Combat, Non-linear Narrative, Exploration, Story-driven Gameplay

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 10; verdict: Mixed Feedback with Technical Concerns; summary: The reviews highlight several key points about the game. Positively, the inclusion of some DLC without extra cost is appreciated. However, there are notable complaints about technical issues with the PC port and frustrating gameplay mechanics, such as high encounter rates. Additionally, there are mentions of certain DLCs being absent due to licensing restrictions, which is a minor negative point.
- Mods: score 40; verdict: Buggy but Playable; summary: The game has significant stability issues that require the use of community-created mods, particularly the 4GB patch, to run properly. While these mods enhance the gaming experience and are easy to implement, the reliance on them indicates underlying problems with the vanilla game.
- Wiki: score 75; verdict: High Dependency on External Data; summary: The analysis of user feedback reveals significant reliance on external data sources for managing inventory, understanding complex mechanics, and efficient resource grinding. Users frequently mention the need for Excel spreadsheets, walkthroughs, and guides to navigate the game effectively. This dependency on external data highlights areas where the game could improve its internal systems to provide a more seamless and enjoyable user experience.
- Proton/Linux: score 80; verdict: Barely Playable; summary: The game experiences significant issues on Linux, including launch reliability problems, crashes, and performance issues. While some users have found workarounds, the overall compatibility with Proton and Steam Deck is poor, requiring considerable effort to get the game running smoothly.
- Steam Deck: score 70; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: The game experiences significant issues related to cloud saves, stability, performance, user interface, and platform compatibility. Frequent crashes and the need for specific patches are major concerns. Disabling cloud saves and applying patches like the 4GB Patch are common workarounds. Performance issues, particularly on non-Steam Deck PCs, and poor user interface adaptation for controllers add to the frustration. Compatibility issues across different platforms further complicate the user experience.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $5.00 - $10.00
  - Reasoning: The evidence consistently suggests that users find the game worthwhile when purchased at a discounted price, specifically mentioning prices around $10 or less. This indicates that the community considers the fair base-game price range to be below the current base game price, with multiple users highlighting the value they found in purchasing the game on sale for approximately $10 or less.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 50.0h
  - Story completion: 20.0h
  - Session length: N/A
  - Endgame: 61.0h
  - Reasoning: The evidence provides several direct and indirect references to playtime metrics. The first quote explicitly states the main story duration is around 20 hours, which maps to 'storyCompletion'. The second quote mentions 50 hours of playing to complete the main story, which aligns with 'gameCompletion'. The third quote indicates significant time spent on technical issues, but does not provide a clear playtime metric. The fourth quote mentions 61 hours of gameplay, which likely includes endgame content and side activities, supporting the 'endgame' metric.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: The game starts slow and confusing but improves significantly towards the end, with better gameplay and pacing. The initial stages are marked by tedious tutorials and slow pacing, but the fun increases as the game progresses.
  - Stance: Fun then drops
  - Anchor: Towards the end of the game
  - Time to anchor: 3h 0m
  - Friction: slow pacing; poorly designed overworld; tedious tutorial
  - Unlock drivers: improvement in gameplay; better pacing
  - Conditions: story progression; exploration
- Player Archetypes:
  - Tech-Savvy Modder (sale)
    - Motivation: Optimizing and customizing the game to their liking.
    - Playstyle: Modding and troubleshooting to enhance gameplay experience.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: veteran; modder
    - Reference games: Final Fantasy XIII
  - Franchise Fan (buy)
    - Motivation: Enjoying the story, characters, and music of the Final Fantasy series.
    - Playstyle: Immersing themselves in the narrative and lore of the game.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: Final Fantasy fan; story lover
    - Reference games: Final Fantasy XIII; Final Fantasy IX; Final Fantasy VII
  - Series Newcomer (sale)
    - Motivation: Finding an accessible and enjoyable entry point into the Final Fantasy series.
    - Playstyle: Learning the mechanics and lore of the game while enjoying the story.
    - Experience: newcomer
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: newcomer; RPG beginner
    - Reference games: Final Fantasy IX; Final Fantasy VII; Final Fantasy V; Final Fantasy VI


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- Improvements over previous game (weight 0.2): The game is seen as an improvement over its predecessor, with better gameplay, more freedom, and corrections of previous flaws. Players appreciate the enhancements in various aspects of the game.
- Improved combat system (weight 0.19): The combat system has seen significant improvements, making it more engaging and enjoyable. Players appreciate the enhancements in combat mechanics and the overall battle system.
- Enjoyable and fun gameplay (weight 0.19): Players consistently praise the gameplay, describing it as enjoyable, fun, and dynamic. The battle system is highlighted as particularly engaging and well-executed.
- Engaging story and characters (weight 0.11): The story and characters are engaging and keep players invested for hours. The storyline is praised for being emotional, exciting, and straightforward.
- More open world and exploration (weight 0.1): The game offers more open-world elements and greater freedom for exploration. Players enjoy the larger areas and the increased opportunities for exploration.
- Interesting time travel mechanics (weight 0.1): The time travel mechanics add a unique and engaging element to the story, providing intrigue and replayability. Players find the non-linear story and alternate reality mechanics fascinating.
- Strong villain Caius (weight 0.07): Caius is highlighted as a strong and well-developed villain with good motivations. Players appreciate his character and the depth he brings to the story.
- Monster catching system (weight 0.07): The monster catching and development system is praised for being well-thought-out and fascinating. Players enjoy the variety and depth it adds to the gameplay.
- Community fixes improve performance (weight 0.06): Community-provided fixes have significantly improved the game's performance, making it more stable and enjoyable. Players appreciate the solutions to crashes and performance issues.
- Works well on Steam Deck (weight 0.06): The game runs smoothly on the Steam Deck, with players reporting a buttery-smooth 60 FPS experience. This compatibility adds to the game's appeal.
- One of the best Final Fantasy games (weight 0.05): Many players consider this game to be one of the best in the Final Fantasy franchise. It stands out for its engaging story, characters, and overall gameplay.
- Continues the story of FFXIII (weight 0.04): The game continues the story from Final Fantasy XIII, providing a direct follow-up that players appreciate. The story is seen as an excellent continuation with improved complexity.

Common complaints:
- Frequent game crashes (weight 0.3): The game experiences frequent crashes on various platforms, particularly on PC. Players report crashes occurring at different intervals, ranging from a few minutes to several hours of gameplay, making the game unstable and often unplayable.
- Poor PC port optimization (weight 0.29): The PC port of the game is widely criticized for its poor optimization and performance issues. Players report that the port is buggy, poorly optimized, and often requires extensive patching and troubleshooting to run smoothly.
- Weak and confusing story (weight 0.24): The game's story is criticized for being weak, poorly written, and confusing. Players find the narrative unsatisfying and difficult to follow, particularly with the time-travel mechanics which add to the confusion.
- Extensive patching required (weight 0.2): The game often requires numerous patches and tweaks to function properly. Players report needing to apply various patches, including third-party and fan-made patches, to prevent crashes and improve performance.
- Performance issues and lag (weight 0.11): The game suffers from significant performance issues, including lag, stuttering, and FPS drops. These issues make the game difficult to play and enjoy.
- Annoying and time-consuming puzzles (weight 0.08): The game features puzzles that players find annoying and time-consuming. These puzzles can be frustrating and detract from the overall enjoyment of the game.
- Combat system criticisms (weight 0.08): The combat system is criticized for being dull, slow, and worse compared to previous entries in the series. Players find the combat mechanics unsatisfying and poorly executed.
- Audio issues (weight 0.08): Players have reported issues with audio, including a persistent buzzing sound and other audio anomalies. These issues can be annoying and detract from the overall gaming experience.
- Lack of developer support (weight 0.06): There is a perceived lack of effort and support from the developer, Square Enix, to fix the game's issues. Players feel that the company has not adequately addressed the numerous bugs and performance problems.
- Windows 11 compatibility issues (weight 0.04): The game has compatibility issues with Windows 11, requiring additional work to get it running properly. Players report that the game does not run well or at all on this operating system without extensive tweaking.
- Repetitive and boring gameplay (weight 0.04): The gameplay is criticized for being repetitive and boring, particularly in the later stages. The time travel mechanics contribute to this repetitiveness, making the game less enjoyable.
- Random encounter system (weight 0.04): The game features a semi-random enemy encounter system, which some players find frustrating. These random encounters can disrupt the flow of the game and become tedious.
- Exploration and side quests (weight 0.04): The game encourages thorough exploration and completion of side quests to unlock new areas and secrets. Each area and time period contains different enemies and secrets, adding depth to the gameplay.

Gameplay feedback:
- Time travel mechanics central (weight 0.19): The game heavily features time travel mechanics, including multiverse exploration, alternate realities, and paradoxes. Players appreciate the non-linear gameplay and open-ended play style enabled by these mechanics.
- Paradigm combat system (weight 0.17): The combat system is dynamic and tactical, featuring paradigm shifts that allow for multiple roles and strategies. This system is praised for its depth and customization options.
- Monster catching and training (weight 0.15): The game includes a robust system for catching, training, and utilizing monsters, similar to Pokémon-like mechanics. This system adds a layer of strategy and customization to the gameplay.
- Non-linear gameplay (weight 0.1): The game offers a less linear world with non-linear progression and storytelling, allowing players to explore different areas and timelines freely.
- Side quests and optional content (weight 0.09): There are numerous side quests and optional content, including mini-games and puzzles, which encourage thorough exploration of each area.
- Visual and mechanical improvements (weight 0.09): The game improves upon its predecessor with clearer storytelling, better use of the paradigm system, and visually impressive graphics.
- Character development and customization (weight 0.07): The game features character development, switching, and customization, allowing players to progress and tailor their characters to their preferred play style.
- Story continuation with twists (weight 0.06): The game continues the story from Final Fantasy XIII with new characters and themes, offering a compelling narrative that builds on the previous game.
- Random encounters return (weight 0.04): The game reintroduces random enemy encounters, which have been slightly modified from previous iterations.
- Open-world elements (weight 0.04): The game includes open-world elements, allowing players to explore multiple areas and travel back and forth as they like, adding to the game's freedom and replayability.
- Quick-time events in combat (weight 0.03): The game features quick-time events during battles and movie sequences, adding an interactive element to the combat and storytelling.
- Chocobo racing and casino (weight 0.03): The game includes side activities like Chocobo racing and casino games, providing additional content and variety outside of the main gameplay.
- Guide recommended for quests (weight 0.03): Some quests and areas require in-depth knowledge and may benefit from using a guide, as the game can be complex and challenging to navigate.

Performance notes:
- Frequent game crashes (weight 0.3): The game experiences frequent crashes, including crashes upon launch, during gameplay, and with specific features like cloud saves. This issue is widespread across different Windows versions and configurations.
- Patching requirements (weight 0.18): The game requires various patches, including a 4GB patch and fan-made patches, to function properly and prevent crashes. Without these patches, the game is barely playable.
- Poor PC port quality (weight 0.13): The PC port of the game is widely criticized for its poor quality, with many players experiencing significant issues and considering the port to be subpar compared to other versions.
- Lack of optimization (weight 0.1): The game suffers from poor optimization, leading to various performance issues. Players report that the game is not well-optimized for PC, resulting in a suboptimal gaming experience.
- Frame rate problems (weight 0.09): Players experience severe frame rate drops, stuttering, and inconsistent frame rates, which significantly impact the gameplay experience.
- Audio buzzing issues (weight 0.06): There are reports of an annoying buzzing noise in the audio, which can be disruptive and affect the overall gaming experience.
- Numerous bugs (weight 0.05): The game is marred by numerous bugs, including game-breaking bugs that cause crashes and require fixes to make the game playable.
- Compatibility issues with Windows 11 (weight 0.05): The game has compatibility issues with Windows 11, requiring additional mods or fixes to run properly on this operating system.
- Long loading times (weight 0.03): Players report long loading times, including slow initial load times and occasional long loading and saving times.

Recommendations:
- Recommended for series fans (weight 0.12): The game is highly recommended for fans of the series and JRPG enthusiasts. It is seen as a great continuation for those who enjoyed previous installments.
- Mods and patches enhance gameplay (weight 0.12): Players frequently recommend installing various mods and patches to improve the overall gaming experience. These modifications are often necessary to fix bugs and enhance performance.
- Play previous games first (weight 0.07): It is often recommended to play previous games in the series, particularly Final Fantasy XIII-2, before starting this one. This helps with understanding the story and gameplay mechanics.
- Worth playing for fans (weight 0.07): The game is considered worthwhile for fans of the series and those open to new gameplay experiences. It is recommended for its unique features and strategic combat.
- Recommended on sale (weight 0.06): Many players suggest buying the game only when it is on sale. Some also recommend the console version over the PC version for a better experience.
- Disable cloud save (weight 0.05): Many players suggest disabling cloud save on Steam to avoid crashes and other issues. This is a common recommendation to improve game stability.
- Install memory patch (weight 0.05): Installing the 4GB or 8GB patch is recommended to remove memory limitations and avoid frequent crashing. This patch is crucial for better performance.
- Console version preferred (weight 0.04): Some players recommend getting an Xbox 360 or other consoles to play the game, especially for those who do not have a PS3 or Xbox Series and want to play on the go.
- Highly recommended experience (weight 0.04): The game is highly recommended for its unique and masterfully designed experience. Players who enjoyed the previous game but found it lacking in some areas are encouraged to try this one.
- Avoid this game (weight 0.03): Some players strongly advise against buying or playing this game due to various issues and criticisms. It is suggested to play the game on other platforms if possible.
- Recommended for Steam Deck (weight 0.03): Playing on Steam Deck or Linux is recommended for a better experience. This suggestion is for those who prefer playing on these platforms.
- Disable audio enhancements (weight 0.03): Disabling Windows sound enhancements, such as 'Spatial Sound' and 'Audio enhancements,' is recommended for better audio performance on Windows 10/11.
- Remaster for better playability (weight 0.01): There is a recommendation to remaster the game for better PC playability. This suggests that the current version has issues that need addressing.
- Use a controller (weight 0.01): Using a controller is recommended for a better gaming experience. This suggestion is for those who prefer controller input over keyboard and mouse.

Other player notes:
- Community fixes available (weight 0.01): Players are noting that there are community-created fixes or modifications available for the game.
- Steam Deck compatibility (weight 0.01): Players are discussing the game's compatibility and performance on the Steam Deck platform.
- DLC content (weight 0.01): There are mentions of downloadable content (DLC) related to the game.

Emotions:
- Frustration (weight 0.41): Players are primarily frustrated due to frequent game crashes, performance issues, and the need for extensive troubleshooting to get the game running. The poor PC port, lack of optimization, and compatibility issues, especially on Windows 11, contribute significantly to this frustration. Additionally, confusing story elements, hidden endings, and the necessity of mods to fix various issues add to the overall dissatisfaction.
- Disappointment (weight 0.15): Disappointment stems from the game's poor story handling, underdeveloped characters, and the need for extensive patches to make it playable. Players also express dissatisfaction with the game's overall quality, including poor port quality, frequent crashes, and the lack of official support and updates. The confusing and incomplete storyline, along with the reliance on unofficial patches, further adds to the disappointment.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.13): Players enjoy the game's engaging story, improved combat mechanics, and character development. The refined combat system, interesting narrative twists, and enjoyable gameplay mechanics contribute to a positive experience. Additionally, the game's music, graphics, and overall quality as a sequel enhance the enjoyment.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.07): Satisfaction comes from the game's improved gameplay, story, and overall quality. Players appreciate the refined combat mechanics, enjoyable combat system, and the game's ability to run well with patches. The positive experience with the game, despite initial issues, and the reasonable price also contribute to player satisfaction.
- Anger (weight 0.03): Anger is primarily caused by the game's frequent crashes, poor performance, and lack of bug fixes. Players are also frustrated with the game's poor quality, technical issues, and the refusal of refunds. The lack of official support and the need for extensive troubleshooting to get the game running contribute to the anger.
- Joy (weight 0.02): Joy is derived from the game's fun gameplay, engaging story, and enjoyable combat system. Players appreciate the game's high replay value, memorable soundtrack, and the overall positive experience with the game's mechanics and characters. The game's unique premise and world also contribute to the joy.
- Excitement (weight 0.02): Excitement is generated by the game's engaging gameplay, fast combat system, and strategic monster recruitment. Players are also excited about the game's unique premise, world, and the positive experience with the game's music and battle themes. The innovative combat system and the overall quality of the game contribute to the excitement.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.02): Nostalgia is evoked by replaying the story after a long time, personal connections to the game, and the music by ORIGA. Players who loved the game on PS3 and those who have been playing Final Fantasy games since the original one came out on NES also feel a sense of nostalgia. The OST and Serah's theme further add to this emotion.
- Relief (weight 0.01): Relief comes from finding working fixes and solutions to common problems such as crashing issues and noise issues. Players are relieved when they can play the game without crashes and find solutions to improve game performance. The ability to disable cloud saving and finding fixes for specific issues contribute to this sense of relief.
- Positive (weight 0.01): Positive feelings arise from the enjoyment of the game's story, characters, and mechanics. Players appreciate the game's improvements, music, and moments. The overall positive experience with the game's mechanics, exploration, and the enjoyment of the game's story and mechanics contribute to these positive emotions.
- Happy (weight 0.01): Happiness is derived from the game's overall quality, fun battle system, and improvements in the beginning. Players love the music and gameplay, and had a blast playing the game. The game's incredible aspects and the enjoyment of the game's mechanics and exploration contribute to the happiness.
- Frustrated (weight 0.01): Frustration is caused by the need to apply patches to make the game work, lost save files, and bad performance. Constant freezing during cutscenes, repetitive tasks, and crashing after the intro sequence on Windows 11 further add to the frustration. The overall poor performance and the need for extensive troubleshooting contribute to this emotion.
- Appreciation (weight 0.01): Appreciation comes from the game's good characters, improved gameplay mechanics, and story. Players appreciate the detailed characters, emotional depth, and the game's music. The improvements over the predecessor and the story pacing also contribute to the appreciation.
- Love (weight 0.01): Love for the game is derived from the characters and their chemistry, character designs, and Serah's bowsword. Players love everything about the game, including the superb music and the complex, layered characters. The overall quality of the game and its engaging story contribute to this emotion.
- Mixed feelings (weight 0.01): Mixed feelings arise from the enjoyable mechanics but convoluted story and tedious aspects. Players have a mix of positive and negative feelings about the game's RPG elements, story, and comparison to the first game. The improved gameplay but worse story and graphics contribute to these mixed feelings.
- Engagement (weight 0.01): Engagement is derived from the complex and ambitious story, engaging and mysterious story, and fun combat. Players are engaged by the better optional side content and the interesting, engaging story. The game's unique premise and world also contribute to the engagement.
- Surprise (weight 0.01): Surprise comes from the enjoyment of the game more than expected and the ease of getting all achievements compared to FF13. Players are surprised by the game's overall quality, fun gameplay, and the positive aspects of the game's mechanics and exploration. The game's unique premise and world also contribute to the surprise.}