I had a suspicion this would happen, but I didn't think it actually would. When the HD remasters were announced I kind of wished X-2 wasn't a part of the PS3 version by necessity. Boy am I glad I got forced into it. Up until yesterday I had nothing but bad memories from the game (well, except the opening song), but after having some time with the game again several years after I last touched it, I'm finding that I actually really enjoy it! Yep, I said it: I actually like X-2.
I think this is one of those games that is better enjoyed disconnected from the time and circumstances in which it first arrived (and knowing what you're getting into). I mean, come on. The first time I played FFX the ending left me depressed for a week. Then I picked up the PS2 version of X-2 and my tears were answered with...J-pop and magical girls. The contrast was like an insult back then. Plus I personally didn't have a lot of JRPG experience at that point so the fast battle system was a little overwhelming. And I was only playing because I wanted a happier ending than FFX gave me. Though I was mostly oblivious to it at the time, the game was also the center of a lot of controversy just for being a sequel at all. Most of the graphic assets were reused from X. It was the perfect formula for hate and getting swept under the rug.
But all that's behind us now, and I have a lot more experience with Japanese entertainment and culture in general. I loved FFX all over again, but the ending will never have quite the same impact as it did that first time. It was an easier transition to X-2. And without all the weight of its first run surrounding it I feel like I'm really able to appreciate it for what it is--and it is actually a terrifically fun and even serious entry to the FF series.
Anyone else with me? Does X-2 strike you a bit better after a few years and a visual tuneup? Or if you're holding off even trying it because of bad memories, perhaps you should consider giving the game another chance!
I think this is one of those games that is better enjoyed disconnected from the time and circumstances in which it first arrived (and knowing what you're getting into). I mean, come on. The first time I played FFX the ending left me depressed for a week. Then I picked up the PS2 version of X-2 and my tears were answered with...J-pop and magical girls. The contrast was like an insult back then. Plus I personally didn't have a lot of JRPG experience at that point so the fast battle system was a little overwhelming. And I was only playing because I wanted a happier ending than FFX gave me. Though I was mostly oblivious to it at the time, the game was also the center of a lot of controversy just for being a sequel at all. Most of the graphic assets were reused from X. It was the perfect formula for hate and getting swept under the rug.
But all that's behind us now, and I have a lot more experience with Japanese entertainment and culture in general. I loved FFX all over again, but the ending will never have quite the same impact as it did that first time. It was an easier transition to X-2. And without all the weight of its first run surrounding it I feel like I'm really able to appreciate it for what it is--and it is actually a terrifically fun and even serious entry to the FF series.
Anyone else with me? Does X-2 strike you a bit better after a few years and a visual tuneup? Or if you're holding off even trying it because of bad memories, perhaps you should consider giving the game another chance!