Final Fantasy X|X-2 HD Remaster Review (PS4)

Introduction

This is a HD Collection containing both Final Fantasy X HD and Final Fantasy X-2 HD. Final Fantasy X was originally released for the PS2, and had a new version called Final Fantasy X: International (for Japan only, but with English text option included) with brand new content such as new optional bosses. 

The PS4 version also includes the PS2 soundtrack selection for Final Fantasy X HD, so players can switch between the remastered soundtrack or the original soundtrack for their listening pleasures. Unfortunately the PS4 version also has RNG bug for random encounters and auto restart BGM after battles bug in Final Fantasy X HD. You must download an update to fix those issues.

Final Fantasy X HD

Embark on Tidus' journey in the world of Spira.

Final Fantasy X HD is perhaps the highlight of the collection, with a timeless turn-based battle system, easy to learn controls, HD remastered graphics, and remastered soundtrack. Note that not all pieces are remastered. Full review can be read here: https://chaosdotgaming.blogspot.my/2017/07/final-fantasy-x-hd-review-ps4.html

Final Fantasy X-2 HD

Experience Yuna's journey as a sphere hunter along with her gang of the Gullwings.

Final Fantasy X-2 HD is perhaps the first game sequel of a Final Fantasy title, with many of previous Final Fantasy X characters returning in the game. Unlike Final Fantasy X HD, this game does not have a remastered soundtrack, but boasts a huge amount of new content offered such as Creature Creator feature and Last Mission epilogue. Last Mission, however, is a separate game selection from Final Fantasy X-2 HD. Full review can be read here: https://chaosdotgaming.blogspot.my/2017/07/final-fantasy-x-2-hd-review-ps4.html

Bonus Content


Try out the Last Mission side-game.

Final Fantasy X: Eternal Calm is an epilogue video of Final Fantasy X, showing what happens to Yuna after the events of Final Fantasy X. This also serves as an explanation as to how Yuna wants to become a sphere hunter. It is not a must watch, but considerably good on its own if you like to delve into Final Fantasy stories.

Final Fantasy X-2: Last Mission HD is an epilogue side-game that takes place after Final Fantasy X-2 events. Unlike the previous two main games, this game plays like a rogue-like and strategy game, where you need to climb up the tower to complete it. What makes this side-game unique is the random generator of items, floor layouts and monsters encountered in every floor. Specific floors however, do have mandatory boss fights. It is worth playing, but the story exposition offered in this side-game only offers hindsight of the lives of all three girls after Final Fantasy X-2 events.

The last new content included is the audio drama Final Fantasy X: Will. This audio drama takes place after the events of Final Fantasy X-2 and Final Fantasy X-2.5: Eien no Daishou (novel sequel of Final Fantasy X-2). The audio drama features two new characters named Chuami and Kurgum as well as many previous characters in the Final Fantasy X games such as Yuna, Wakka, and Lulu. This is my least liked addition to the HD collection. Totally unnecessary as well as ruining Final Fantasy X-2's perfect ending conclusion.

I would like to also note that Yuna's character takes a 180 degree turn, from being much more cheerful in Final Fantasy X-2 and back to somber and depressed mood in Final Fantasy X. Surprisingly, the English voice actors of the previous characters reprised their roles in this audio drama, creating a good consistency. The characterisation of both Chuami and Kurgum are rather not likable and undeveloped, and the story itself feels forced as well as being unnecessary.

Conclusion

Excellent compilation of two great games.

Overall, this HD collection is worth a purchase for regular RPG fans or Final Fantasy fans. I strongly urge everyone to listen the Final Fantasy X: Will audio drama after you have finished both main games, as the audio drama may or may not spoils your mood of the Final Fantasy X and Final Fantasy X-2 stories. I refuse to accept the canon of the audio drama, and I personally think this HD collection is much more worth buying without the audio drama's inclusion. Please be noted that the base version of Final Fantasy X HD has two issues, so you must download the latest update to fix this issue.

Final Score: 9/10

Pros and Cons

Pros

- Great value of money with two great RPGs.
- Good interface, where you can quit back to main game selection menu after quitting a game.
- Great stories.
- Great gameplay for both games, offering distinct style of combat.
- Great amount of new content.

Cons

- Final Fantasy X: Will audio drama is bad.
- Poor characterisations of the characters in the audio drama.
- RNG random encounters bug in Final Fantasy X HD. (fixed by installing an update)
- BGM restart bug after battle in Final Fantasy X HD. (fixed by installing an update)

**Images are from official Square Enix site.

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