FINAL FANTASY VIII

Players frequently cite bugs, performance issues (e.g., low FPS, crashes), and technical problems (e.g., unrecognized controllers, DRM requirements) as major sources of frustration. The game's mechanics, such as the junction system, grinding, and magic extraction, are also criticized for being tedious, unintuitive, and poorly explained, often leading to wasted progress or repetitive gameplay.

The game evokes strong nostalgia due to its personal and emotional connections to players' pasts, particularly for those who grew up with it during the PS1 era. Many highlight its impact on their childhood, memorable soundtrack, and unique mechanics, which foster a deep appreciation for its legacy in the JRPG genre.

Players express disappointment with the game's outdated feel, poor port quality (e.g., downgraded soundtrack, technical flaws), and underwhelming storytelling, including weak character development and plot twists. The lack of modern improvements, such as proper controller support or quality-of-life features, further exacerbates this sentiment.

The game is admired for its bold storytelling, innovative mechanics (e.g., the junction system), and willingness to experiment with the Final Fantasy formula. Players praise its poetic narrative, character development, and high-quality soundtrack, which stand out as unique and audacious for its time.

Players derive satisfaction from overcoming the game's challenges, such as mastering the junction system or defeating superbosses, often after resolving technical issues with mods. The depth of the story, character growth, and the sense of progression, particularly in later stages, contribute to a rewarding experience despite initial flaws.