Final Fantasy X (PS2)
**** 1/2

The Final Fantasy series has never taken a disasterous fall in its long history, and X is no exception. Unlike many franchises that begin to fall apart after three or four installments, Final Fantasy remains fresh, an in this case, incredibly innovative.

You play the role of Tidus, a rising blitzball star who is mysteriously transported to a land known as Spira, by a creature known as Sin. Sin exists in Spira, as well, and has caused the government to ban all technology, due to the belief that Sin was created from Spira's arrogance and dependence on technology. Summoners, who are able to summon powerful creatures to aid them in battle, are enlisted to fight Sin, and bring a calm to the world. Summoners, who are magically gifted, but physically weak, are protected by powerful fighters known as guardians.

Without giving too much of the story away, Tidus becomes a guardian for a young Sorceress named Yuna, and from then on, his life will never be the same.

This is the most engaging RPG I've ever played. From the enthralling story, to the impressive audio/visual representation, everything fits together in perfect harmony.

This is the first Final Fantasy to use voices for its characters instead of text. All of the actors provide very professional and convincing readings, which greatly adds to the epic.

The redesigned battle system is refreshing, and brilliantly conceived, lending itself more to strategy than gung-ho action. Being able to switch out your characters at will helps ensure that you always have the right abilities for the given situation.

The only downside to the game appears late into the game, where you will discover that strength is a prerequisite. If you haven't spent many hours leveling up your characters you will not be able to defeat the final bosses. This is a letdown, considering Square isn't known to stoop to tactics like this to make their games more challenging.

Overall, this is one RPG that PS2 owners must play. The storyline is captivating, the characters are loveable, and the experience is one you will never forget.

-James Napier