Final Fantasy X 52759 225778664 2008-07-15T10:38:01Z Kariteh 1718040 [[WP:UNDO|Undid]] revision 225770593 by [[Special:Contributions/Vaan661|Vaan661]] ([[User talk:Vaan661|talk]]) {{featured article}} {{Refimprove|date=July 2008}} {{Infobox VG | title = Final Fantasy X | image = [[Image:Ffxbox.jpg|250px]] | caption = North American box art | developer = [[Square Co.|Square]] | publisher = {{vgrelease|JP=[[Square Co.|Square]]|NA=[[Square Electronic Arts]]|INT=[[Square Co.|Square]]|PAL=[[Sony Computer Entertainment|SCE Europe]]}} | designer = [[Yoshinori Kitase]] <small>([[game producer|producer]])</small><br />[[Hironobu Sakaguchi]] <small>([[executive producer]])</small><br />[[Motomu Toriyama]] <small>([[game director|director]])</small>{{Fact|date=July 2008}}<br />[[Tetsuya Nomura]] <small>([[character design]]er)</small><br />[[Yoshitaka Amano]] <small>(image illustrator, title logo designer)</small><br />[[Kazushige Nojima]] <small>([[scenario]] writer)</small><br />[[Nobuo Uematsu]] <small>(sound producer, [[composer]])</small><br />[[Yusuke Naora]] <small>(art director)</small><br />[[Toshiro Tsuchida]] <small>(battle director)</small> | series = ''[[Final Fantasy]]'' | picture format = [[4:3]] (SDTV) | platforms = [[PlayStation 2]] | engine = [[Emotion Engine]] | released = {{vgrelease|JP=[[July 19]], [[2001]]|NA=[[December 20]], [[2001]]|INT=[[January 31]], [[2002]]}}{{vgrelease|AUS=[[May 17]], [[2002]]<ref name="PALrel">{{cite web | author=SCEE | title=SCEE 2002 - Key facts and figures | url=http://www.scee.presscentre.com/Content/Detail.asp?ReleaseID=100&NewsAreaID=22 | publisher=SCEE Press Room | accessdate=2006-11-25}}</ref>}}{{vgrelease|PAL=[[May 29]], [[2002]]<ref name="PALrel"/>}} | genre = [[Console role-playing game]] | modes = [[Single-player]] | ratings = {{vgratings|CERO=12+|ELSPA=11+|ESRB=T (Teen)|OFLCA=M15+|USK=12}} | media = 1 [[DVD-ROM]] | input = [[DualShock]] controller }} {{nihongo|'''''Final Fantasy X'''''|ファイナルファンタジーX|Fainaru Fantajī Ten}} is a [[console role-playing game]] developed and published by [[Square Co.|Square]] (now [[Square Enix]]), and the tenth installment in the ''[[Final Fantasy]]'' series. It was released in {{vgy|2001}} for [[Sony Computer Entertainment|Sony]]'s [[PlayStation 2]]. As of [[January 20]] [[2004]], the game has sold around 6.6 million units worldwide<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/rpg/finalfantasyx2/news_6086686.html |title=Final Fantasy X-2 sells a million |publisher=[[GameSpot]] |author=Justin Calvert |accessdate=2008-04-07 |date=2004-01-20}}</ref> and was also voted by the readers of the Japanese video game magazine ''[[Famitsu]]'' to be the greatest video game of all-time.<ref name="top100">{{cite web | author=Campbell, Colin | date=2006 | title=Japan Votes on All Time Top 100 | url=http://www.next-gen.biz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2401&Itemid=2 |publisher=[[Next Generation Magazine]] | accessdate=2006-10-21}}</ref> <!-- Selling more than 7.93 million copies worldwide, it became the second best-selling title of the series. (re-add when proper source is found)--> Set in the [[fantasy world]] of [[Spira (Final Fantasy)|Spira]], the game's story centers around a group of adventurers and their quest to defeat a rampaging force known as "Sin". ''Final Fantasy X'' marks the ''Final Fantasy'' series' transition from entirely [[pre-rendered]] backdrops to fully [[3D computer graphics|three-dimensional]] areas, achieved with the PlayStation 2's [[Emotion Engine]] processor. Although pre-rendered backgrounds are not entirely absent, their use has been restricted to less vibrant locations, such as building interiors.<ref name="ignreview">{{cite web | author=IGN Staff | date=2001 | title=Final Fantasy X Review | url= http://ps2.ign.com/articles/164/164008p1.html | publisher=[[IGN]] | accessdate=2006-08-13}}</ref> ''Final Fantasy X'' is also the first game in the series to feature a wide range of realistic facial expressions, as well as other technological developments in graphical effects achieved, such as variance in lighting and shadow from one section of a character's clothing to the next.<ref name="interviews">{{cite web | date=2001 | title=Behind The Game The Creators | url= http://www.square-enix-usa.com/games/FFX/btg/creators.html#1 | publisher=Square Enix North America | accessdate=2006-04-12}}</ref> ''Final Fantasy X'' is also the first in the series to feature [[voice-over]] actors, as well as the first to spawn a direct [[sequel]], ''[[Final Fantasy X-2]]''. ''Final Fantasy X'' introduces other significant advances in the ''Final Fantasy'' series. For instance, because of the implementation of voice-overs, scenes in the game are paced according to the time taken for dialogue to be spoken,<ref name="interviews"/> whereas previous games in the series incorporated scrolling subtitles. ''Final Fantasy X'' features changes in world design, with a focus placed on realism. The gameplay makes a significant departure from past games as well, incorporating several new elements. ==Gameplay== Like previous games in the series, ''Final Fantasy X'' is presented in third-person perspective, with players directly navigating the main character, [[Tidus]], or [[Yuna (Final Fantasy)|Yuna]] in some cases, around the world to interact with objects and people. Unlike in previous games, however, the world and town maps have been fully integrated, with terrain outside of cities rendered to scale. When an enemy is encountered, the environment switches to a [[turn-based strategy|turn-based]] "battle area" where characters and enemies must await their turn to attack. In line with previous titles in the series, players are given the opportunity to develop and improve their characters by defeating enemies and acquiring items, though the traditional [[experience point]] system was replaced by a new system called the "Sphere Grid". The game was initially going to feature [[Internet|online]] elements, but these were dropped during production, and online [[multiplayer game|multiplayer gaming]] would not become part of the ''Final Fantasy'' series until ''[[Final Fantasy XI]]''.<ref name="online">{{cite web | author=Johnson, Bill | date=2000 | title=Square Looks Ahead | url=http://rpgamer.com/news/Q4-2000/111700b.html | publisher=[[RPGamer]] | accessdate=2006-04-29}}</ref><ref name="online2">{{cite web | author=Avistetto, Jimmy | date=2000 | title=Final Fantasy X Not Online-Capable | url=http://rpgamer.com/news/Q4-2000/112000b.html | publisher=[[RPGamer]] | accessdate=2006-04-29}}</ref> [[Image:Ffxfieldmapexample.jpg|thumb|left|225px|An example of navigation on the field map]] ===Field map=== ''Final Fantasy X''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s gameplay differs from that of previous ''Final Fantasy'' games in its lack of an interactive [[top-down perspective]] "[[overworld|world map]]" navigation system. Previous games had featured a miniature representation of the expansive areas between towns and other distinct locations, used for long-distance traveling. In ''Final Fantasy X'', instead, almost all game locations are essentially contiguous and never fade out to an interactive overworld map. Regional connections are mostly linear, forming a single path through the game's locations, though an [[airship (video game)|airship]] becomes available late in the game, giving the player the ability to navigate the world of Spira in a matter of seconds. Map director [[Takayoshi Nakazato]] has explained that with ''Final Fantasy X'', he wanted to implement a world map concept with a more realistic approach than that of the traditional ''Final Fantasy'' game, in-line with the realism afforded by the mechanics of the game's dominant 3D backgrounds, as opposed to that offered by pre-rendered backgrounds (which he refers to as "pseudo 3D environments").<ref name="interviews"/> ===Battle system=== [[Image:FFXbattleexample.jpg|thumb|250px|A typical battle with a [[boss (video games)|boss]]]] ''Final Fantasy X'' introduces the [[Square Enix battle systems#Conditional Turn-Based|Conditional Turn-Based Battle]] (CTB) system in place of the series' traditional [[Square Enix battle systems#Active Time Battle|Active Time Battle]] (ATB) system, which was originally developed by [[Hiroyuki Ito]] and was first used in ''[[Final Fantasy IV]]''. The system was developed by battle director [[Toshiro Tsuchida]], who had ''Final Fantasy IV'' in mind when developing the CTB system. Whereas the ATB concept features real-time elements, the CTB system is a turn-based format that pauses the battle during each of the player's turns. Thus, the CTB design allows the player to select an action without time pressure. The CTB system also allows characters' and enemies' attributes and actions to affect the number of turns they are allowed and the order in which they occur. A graphical timeline along the upper-right side of the screen details who will be receiving turns next as well as how various actions taken (such as using the ''Slow'' spell on an enemy) will affect the subsequent order of turns. Character-specific special abilities (known as "[[Common elements of Final Fantasy#Battle systems and Limit Breaks|Limit Break]]s" in some other ''Final Fantasy'' games) reappear in ''Final Fantasy X'' under the name "Overdrives". In this new incarnation of the feature, most of the techniques are interactive, requiring [[fighting game]]-style button inputs or precise timing to increase their effectiveness. Furthermore, an "Overdrive meter" was introduced to determine when such an ability could be executed. Through the use of different "Overdrive Modes", the player is allowed to designate what circumstances (such as receiving damage, slaying an enemy, or being the only living character on the field) cause the Overdrive meter to fill. ''Final Fantasy X'' allows the player to control only up to three characters in battle at once, but a "swapping system" allows the player to replace any of them with one of the (eventually) four others waiting on the sidelines. A player may swap one character for another at any time, unless the on-field character has been defeated. Swapping is encouraged by the fact that each character has a specialized application: [[Yuna]] has the greatest skill at healing with [[Final Fantasy magic#White Magic|White Magic]] and can use [[Final Fantasy magic#Summon Magic|summon]] spells; [[Rikku]] is adept at using and stealing items; Tidus can use time-altering magic and accurately strike agile enemies; [[Wakka]] can inflict negative [[status effect]]s and accurately strike flying enemies; [[Auron]] can pierce enemies' defenses and has the greatest physical strength; [[Kimahri Ronso|Kimahri]] can use [[Final Fantasy magic#Blue Magic|enemy skills]]; and [[Lulu (Final Fantasy X)|Lulu]] has elemental [[Final Fantasy magic#Black Magic|Black Magic]] spells suited for use against elementally aligned enemies. ''Final Fantasy X'' introduces an overhaul of the summoning system employed in previous installments of the series. Whereas in previous games a summoned creature would arrive, perform a single action, and then depart, ''Final Fantasy X''<nowiki>'s</nowiki> summons (called "[[Spira (Final Fantasy X)#Aeons and fayth|aeons]]") arrive and entirely replace the battle party, fighting in their place until either the enemy has been slain, the aeon itself has been defeated, or the aeon is dismissed by the player. Aeons have their own stats, commands, special attacks, spells, and Overdrives, and in addition to providing powerful attacks, they can be employed as "[[meat shield]]s" while fighting difficult bosses, as the enemy must first kill any summoned aeon before it can damage the party directly. The player acquires a minimum of five aeons over the course of the game, and three additional aeons can be unlocked by completing various sidequests. Originally, ''Final Fantasy X'' was going to feature wandering enemies visible on the field map, seamless transitions into battles, and the option for players to move around the landscape during enemy encounters.<ref name="battleandvoice">{{cite book | author=Birlew, Dan | date=2001 | title=Final Fantasy X Official Strategy Guide | pages=268 | publisher = BradyGAMES Publishing | language=English | id=ISBN 0-7440-0140-4}}</ref> Battle art director [[Shintaro Takai]] has explained that it was his intention that battles in ''Final Fantasy X'' come across as a natural part of the story and not an independent element.<ref name="interviews"/> However, due to hardware and system limitations, these ideas were not used until ''Final Fantasy XI'' and ''[[Final Fantasy XII]]''. Instead, a compromise was made, whereby some transitions from the field screen to battle arenas were made relatively seamless with the implementation of a motion blur effect. The desire for seamless transitions also led to the implementation of the new summoning system seen in the game. ===Sphere Grid=== [[Image:FFXspheregridexample3.JPG|thumb|250px|A portion of the Sphere Grid]] ''Final Fantasy X''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s leveling system, the Sphere Grid, was unique in the [[Role-playing game (video games)|computer role-playing game]] genre at the time of its release; however aspects of the approach were adopted by some later titles, for example the "Mantra Grid" in the game ''[[Shin Megami Tensei: Digital Devil Saga]]''. Instead of characters gaining pre-determined statistic bonuses for their attributes after a certain number of battles, each character gains a "sphere level" after collecting enough [[experience point|Ability Points]] (AP). Sphere levels, in turn, allow players to move around the Sphere Grid, a predetermined grid of several hundred interconnected nodes consisting of various stat and ability bonuses. Items called "spheres" (obtained from defeated enemies, treasure chests, and event prizes) are applied to these nodes, unlocking its function for the selected character. In this way, the playable characters' development resembles a [[board game]]. Producer [[Yoshinori Kitase]] has explained that the purpose behind the Sphere Grid is to give players an interactive means of increasing their characters' attributes, such that they will be able to observe the development of those attributes firsthand.<ref name="spheregrid">{{cite book | author=Birlew, Dan | date=2001 | title=Final Fantasy X Official Strategy Guide | pages=266 | publisher=BradyGAMES Publishing | language=English | id=ISBN 0-7440-0140-4}}</ref> The Sphere Grid system also allows players to fully customize characters in contrast to their intended battle roles, such as turning the magician Yuna into a physical powerhouse and the swordsman Auron into a healer. The ''International'' and [[PAL]] versions of the game include an optional "Expert" version of the Sphere Grid; in these versions, all of the characters start in the middle of the grid and may follow whichever path the player chooses. As a tradeoff, however, the Expert grid has noticeably fewer nodes in total, thus decreasing the total statistic upgrades available during the game. ==Plot and setting== <!-- This section has been edited to comply with the featured article criteria. Please do not add any unnecessary information. If you do wish to add detail on certain events, please discuss the additions on the talk page first or direct your proposed addition to a more detailed subarticle that pertains to the topic at hand. Example: If you wish to add detail on the finer plot details, follow the links to that article and insert the detail there or discuss it on the talk page. Any unneeded info added to this plot will be quickly removed, including any addition of spoiler tags. This plot is meant to be as comprehensive as possible, while only containing the details needed to understand plot at its most basic level. --> [[Image:Map23cx.jpg|thumb|left|250px|Map of Spira]] {{main|Spira (Final Fantasy)}} The world of ''Final Fantasy X'' is known as "Spira". It consists of one large landmass divided into three subcontinents, surrounded by small tropical islands. It features diverse climates, ranging from the tropical [[Locations in Spira#Besaid Island|Besaid]] and [[Locations in Spira#Kilika Island|Kilika]] islands to the temperate [[Locations in Spira#Mi'ihen Highroad|Mi'ihen]] region to the frigid [[Locations in Spira#Macalania|Macalania]] and [[Locations in Spira#Mount Gagazet|Mount Gagazet]]. Although it is predominantly populated by humans, Spira features a variety of races. Among them are the [[Races of Final Fantasy#Al Bhed|Al Bhed]], a technologically advanced but disenfranchised sub-group of humans with distinctive spiral-green eyes and unique [[Al Bhed language|language]]. The [[Races of Final Fantasy#Guado|Guado]] are somewhat less human in appearance, with elongated fingers and other subtle differences. They also have a natural propensity for magic and conjuring monsters. Still less human in appearance are the large, lion-like, one-horned [[Races of Final Fantasy#Ronso|Ronso]], and the frog-like [[Races of Final Fantasy#Hypello|Hypello]]. Spira's wildlife population introduces several new concepts into the series. Although most creatures are drawn from real animals, such as cats, dogs, birds and butterflies, a few fictional species appear, such as the gigantic, amphibious [[Final Fantasy bestiary (N-Z)#Shoopuf|shoopuf]] and the [[emu]]-like [[Chocobo#Final Fantasy X|chocobo]]. Both are used primarily for transportation purposes. Most other unusual creatures encountered in ''Final Fantasy X'' are ''[[Monsters of Final Fantasy|fiends]]''. Spira is very different from the mainly European-style worlds found in previous ''Final Fantasy'' games, being much more closely modeled on [[Southeast Asia]], most notably with respect to vegetation, topography, architecture, and names. Nomura has identified the [[Australasia|South Pacific]], [[Thailand]] and [[Japan]] as major influences on the cultural and geographic design of Spira, particularly concerning the geographic locations of Besaid and Kilika.<ref name="interviews"/> He has also said that Spira deviates from the worlds of past ''Final Fantasy'' games most notably in the level of detail incorporated, something he has expressed to have made a conscious effort to maintain during the design process. Though a southeast Asian theme is dominant, like other games in the franchise, ''Final Fantasy X'' borrows elements from many other cultures, featuring references to [[demonology]], [[Hindu mythology|Hindu]], [[Norse mythology|Norse]], [[Arabian mythology|Arabic]] and other [[mythology|mythologies]]. [[Psychology]] is also represented, with [[Carl Jung]] referenced by the [[Spira (Final Fantasy X)#Aeons and fayth|aeon Anima]]. ===Spirituality and metaphysics=== [[Image:Farplane.jpg|thumb|250px|A screenshot of the Farplane, resting place of the [[soul]]-like pyreflies]] The most distinctive, basic features of ''Final Fantasy X''{{'}}s [[mythology]] are [[Spira (Final Fantasy X)#Pyreflies|pyreflies]], luminescent "bundles of life energy" that emerge from the newly-dead and wander the land.<ref name="ult_scen">{{cite book | year=2001 | editor=Studio BentStuff | title=Final Fantasy X Scenario Ultimania | pages=59 | publisher=DigiCube/Square Enix | language=Japanese | id=ISBN 4-88787-010-8}}</ref> If left to their own devices, they usually cluster together and form into ''fiends'', dangerous monsters that take a variety of forms and return to balls of pyreflies when defeated. The vast majority of enemies in ''Final Fantasy X'' are fiends. In rare cases, pyreflies maintain enough cohesion and sentience to become ''[[Spira (Final Fantasy X)#Unsent|unsent]]'', beings that appear human but are actually the lingering remnant of a dead individual with a purpose left unfinished. One of the tasks of a [[Final Fantasy character classes#Summoner|summoner]] in ''Final Fantasy X'' is to help guide stray pyreflies to their final resting place, a mystical domain guarded by the Guado and known as the [[Locations in Spira#Farplane|Farplane]]. They do this through a ritual dance known as "[[Spira (Final Fantasy X)#Death and afterlife|the sending]]". The other chief function of summoners is to summon ''[[Spira (Final Fantasy X)#Aeons and fayth|aeons]]'', fierce magical creatures created when people sacrifice their lives to encase their souls within statues, becoming ''[[Spira (Final Fantasy X)#Aeons and fayth|fayth]]''. Fayth grant summoners the ability to summon their respective aeons, which are described as "dreams of the fayth". Summoners are charged with the duty of defeating Sin, a gigantic monster that has plagued Spira for a thousand years, capable of wiping out entire towns and armies with ease. Spira's human population is deeply religious and centered around the [[Spira (Final Fantasy X)#Yevon|temples of Yevon]], a millennium-old religious organization that has gained enormous influence. The Yevonite temples consider Sin a divine punishment set upon people for their pride in the use of machines (or ''machina'', as they are called in the game),<ref name="sinandrepentence">'''Tidus:''' Yuna, why does Sin always come back? / '''Yuna:''' Sin is our punishment for our vanity. And it will not go away until we've atoned. {{cite video game|title=Final Fantasy X |developer=Square Co |publisher=Square EA |date=2001-12-20 |platform=PlayStation 2 |language=English}}</ref> and forbid the use of advanced technology. However, it is eventually revealed that the highest priests, known as the ''[[Spira (Final Fantasy X)#Hierarchy of the temples|maesters]]'', have become increasingly corrupt and unfaithful to their own doctrine, making use of ''machina'' to increase their power. Summoners go on [[pilgrimage]]s to gather aeons and increase their powers. They are accompanied by [[Spira (Final Fantasy X)#Militant factions|guardians]], trained fighters whose duty is to protect the summoners and assist them along the way. The end of the pilgrimage is in the sacred ruined city of [[Locations in Spira#Zanarkand Ruins|Zanarkand]], where summoners acquire the [[Spira (Final Fantasy X)#Legacy of Yevon|Final Aeon]], the only known power that can destroy Sin. It is revealed late in ''Final Fantasy X'' that the fayth for the Final Aeon is actually created from one who is personally close to a summoner, requiring a guardian of each summoner who defeats Sin to sacrifice his or her life.<ref name="sacrifice">'''Yunalesca:''' You must choose the one whom I will change... to become the fayth of the Final Summoning. There must be a bond, between chosen and summoner, for that is what the Final Summoning embodies: the bond between husband and wife, mother and child, or between friends. If that bond is strong enough, its light will conquer Sin. {{cite video game|title=Final Fantasy X |developer=Square Co |publisher=Square EA |date=2001-12-20 |platform=PlayStation 2 |language=English}}</ref> Additionally, using the Final Aeon against Sin costs the summoner's life as well.<ref name="death">'''Tidus:''' Why couldn't they trust guardians to protect summoners... The Al Bhed had no right stopping their pilgrimage! / '''Rikku:''' The pilgrimages have to stop! If they don't, and they get to Zanarkand... They might defeat Sin. Yunie could... but then she... Yunie will die, you know? You know, don't you? Summoners journey to get the Final Aeon. Yuna told you, didn't she? With the Final Aeon, she can beat Sin... but then... If she calls it, then the Final Aeon's gonna kill her. Even if she defeats Sin, it will kill Yunie too, you know? {{cite video game|title=Final Fantasy X |developer=Square Co |publisher=Square EA |date=2001-12-20 |platform=PlayStation 2 |language=English}}</ref> However, even this measure is only temporary: after a small period of peace, known as "the Calm",<ref name="calm">'''Tidus:''' What's the calm? / '''Lulu:''' The Calm is a time of peace. It comes after a summoner defeats Sin, and lasts until Sin reappears. {{cite video game|title=Final Fantasy X |developer=Square Co |publisher=Square EA |date=2001-12-20 |platform=PlayStation 2 |language=English}}</ref> Sin returns, thus requiring the process to start anew. ===Characters=== {{main|Characters of Final Fantasy X and X-2}} The seven main [[player character|playable characters]] in ''Final Fantasy X'' are [[Tidus]], an energetic and upbeat [[Minigames of Final Fantasy#Blitzball|blitzball]] star; [[Yuna (Final Fantasy)|Yuna]], a reserved and soft-spoken summoner who always puts others before herself; [[Kimahri Ronso]], an exile of the Ronso tribe who remains silent for most of the game and is devoted to protecting Yuna above all else; [[Wakka]], an amiable blitzball player and devout follower of the Yevon order, who has been a friend of Yuna's since childhood; [[Lulu (Final Fantasy X)|Lulu]], an often cynical and harsh, but well-meaning [[Black Mage]]; [[Auron]], a taciturn and matter-of-fact ex-[[Spira (Final Fantasy X)#Militant factions|warrior monk]]; and [[Rikku]], a perky Al Bhed girl with extensive knowledge of machinery. The primary [[antagonist]]s of the game are maester [[Seymour Guado]] and the other maesters of the Yevon religion, while the rampaging Sin serves as the primary source of conflict. In addition, there is a vast supporting cast of named characters, who &mdash; along with the main characters &mdash; feature voice talents complementing their principle roles, as well as the myriad incidental characters that have traditionally populated the worlds of ''Final Fantasy''. Character designer [[Tetsuya Nomura]] took particular care in each of the characters' designs. For example, Nomura based Yuna's overall design on Okinawan [[kimono]]s. When he learned that the character was to perform the sending dance, he wanted to give her outfit something that would flow. For this reason, the specific style of kimono he chose for her was a [[furisode]], a kimono bearing long sleeves. Additionally, he adorned her dress and necklace with images of the flower also called ''Yuna'' (''[[Hau (tree)|Hibiscus tiliaceus]]''), and her name carries the meaning of "night" in the [[Okinawan language]], a direct contrast with Tidus' Japanese name, ''Tīda'', the Okinawan word for "sun". Nomura has explained that while all these subtle details may be unnecessary, he does not want his designs to be without explanation.<ref name="characters">{{cite web | author=Sheila | year=2003 | title=Tetsuya Nomura 20s | url=http://flaregamer.com/b2article.php?p=81&more=1 | work=[http://flaregamer.com FLAREgamer] | accessmonthday=April 13 | accessyear=2006}}</ref> For minor characters, sub-character chief designer [[Fumi Nakashima]]'s focus was to ensure that characters from different regions and cultures bore distinctive characteristics in their clothing styles, such that they could be quickly and easily identified as members of their respective sub-groups. For example, in her words, the masks and goggles of the Al Bhed give the group a "strange and eccentric" appearance, while the attire of the Ronso lend to them being able to easily engage in battle.<ref name="interviews" /> ===Story=== [[Image:Sin2.jpg|thumb|250px|A side image of Sin]] ''Final Fantasy X'' begins late in the story, with the main character, [[Tidus]], waiting with his allies outside the ruined city of Zanarkand. From this ''[[in medias res]]'' beginning, Tidus proceeds to narrate the series of events leading up to his present situation, and this extended flashback sequence spans most of the game's storyline. It begins in an unruined Zanarkand, a high-tech [[metropolis]] and Tidus' home city, where he is a renowned star of the fictional underwater sport [[Minigames of Final Fantasy#Blitzball|blitzball]]. When Zanarkand is suddenly attacked by Sin during a blitzball game, Tidus &mdash; along with his long-time mentor, Auron &mdash; is sucked into the creature and awakens to find himself alone in the ruins of a deserted temple. Tidus is then rescued by Al Bhed divers in the area, and one of them, Rikku, tells him that Zanarkand had been destroyed one thousand years earlier. He has little time to dwell on the significance of this news before [[Characters of Final Fantasy X#Sin|Sin]] attacks once again, separating Tidus from the others. He eventually washes up on the tropical island of Besaid, where he meets Wakka, the captain of the Besaid Aurochs, a blitzball team. Impressed by Tidus' blitzball skills, Wakka asks Tidus to join the Aurochs in an upcoming tournament in [[Locations in Spira#Luca|Luca]], suggesting that he may meet someone he knows there. Tidus is introduced to Yuna, a young summoner who is following in the footsteps of her deceased father, the [[List of Final Fantasy X characters|High Summoner Braska]], who temporarily vanquished Sin ten years earlier. Braska's guardians were Auron and [[Jecht]], Tidus's missing father, who had been assumed dead at sea ten years earlier.<ref name="jecht">'''Zanar:''' I was in a coffee shop, running away from home when I heard the news. Our hero, Jecht, gone, vanished into thin air! .../ '''Zanar:''' Anyway... Ten years later, the Jecht Memorial Cup tournament is today! {{cite video game|title=Final Fantasy X |developer=Square Co |publisher=Square EA |date=2001-12-20 |platform=PlayStation 2 |language=English}}</ref><ref name="jecht2">'''Tidus:''' Sounds like him, but it can't be him. / '''Yuna:''' Why not? / '''Tidus:''' My old man, he died. Ten years ago, off the coast of Zanarkand. / '''Yuna:''' I'm sorry. / '''Tidus:''' He went out to sea for training one day... and never came back. And no one's seen him since then. / '''Yuna:''' Why, that's the day that Jecht came to Spira. It's true! I first met Jecht ten years and three months ago! {{cite video game|title=Final Fantasy X |developer=Square Co |publisher=Square EA |date=2001-12-20 |platform=PlayStation 2 |language=English}}</ref> Tidus also meets Lulu and Kimahri, who, along with Wakka, are to serve as Yuna's guardians, journeying with her on her pilgrimage to the ruins of Zanarkand. There, she plans to acquire the power to summon the "Final Aeon" and use it to defeat Sin. The party travels by boat to [[Locations in Spira#Kilika Island|Kilika Island]] &mdash; where Sin is encountered yet again, attacking the boat and decimating most of the town and its villagers &mdash;, then getting the aeon Ifrit and going to Luca. Fiends attack after the tournament, destroyed by Maester Seymour's aeon, Anima. After the blitzball tournament, the party encounters Auron, who joins them. Not long after, following another encounter with Sin where a [[Spira (Final Fantasy X)#Militant factions|crusader]] fleet is decimated, they acquire the aeon, Ixion and they are joined by Rikku, who is revealed to be Yuna's cousin.<ref name="cousins">'''Rikku:''' Hey, do I look like Yunie, you think? / '''Tidus:''' (Huh?) / '''Rikku:''' Well, my dad's sister is Yunie's mother, you get it? {{cite video game|title=Final Fantasy X |developer=Square Co |publisher=Square EA |date=2001-12-20 |platform=PlayStation 2 |language=English}}</ref> After reaching Guadosalam, Seymour invites Yuna to his manor, proposing. After brief contemplation, Yuna returns, but Seymour has gone to Macalania temple, and the party follow, crossing the Thunder Plains, where Yuna informs the group that she will marry Seymour, but for Spira's happiness, not love. They cross the plains and Macalania woods, but are attacked by Rikku's brother and a machina. After repelling the Al Bhed, Seymour's aide, Tromell, guides Yuna to the temple and the group follow, at the temple seeing a sphere from Jyscal Guado, Seymour's late father. He confesses that Seymour is bitter and insane from lack of paternal love and will kill him. His prophecy has come true and the group defeat Seymour beyond the Cloister of trials, resulting in his death with the aid of the aeon, Shiva. Tromell destroys Jyscal's sphere and after fleeing, they are attacked by Sin again, transporting them to the sandy Bikanel island, where they lose track of Yuna. Rikku guides the group to the Al Bhed Home, which is being attacked by Yevon. It is revealed that the Al Bhed have kidnapped summoners to stop them from dying when the Final Summoning is performed and aboard the airship piloted by Brother and Rikku's father, Cid, resolves to save her. She has been taken to Bevelle, forced into marriage with the now unsent Seymour. The group, after Receiving the aeon, Bahamut, are condemned to the fiend infested Via Purifico and, after escaping, encounter Seymour again. He kills several guards, converting them into pyreflies to empower himself. After defeating him, Yuna and Tidus share a passionate moment and the next day, cross the Calm Lands and climb Mt Gagazet, home of the Ronso. At the summit they meet Seymour, who has brutally slaughtered the Ronso. They defeat him once more and go to Zanarkand As the player approaches Zanarkand, Tidus learns that he, Jecht, and the Zanarkand they hail from are all "dreams", summoned entities akin to aeons.<ref name="dream">'''Tidus:''' Wait... this is a dream. / '''Fayth:''' Precisely. / '''Tidus:''' A dream? Are you crazy? I don't have time to be dreaming now! / '''Fayth:''' "You're wrong. It's not that you're dreaming. You are a dream. {{cite video game|title=Final Fantasy X |developer=Square Co |publisher=Square EA |date=2001-12-20 |platform=PlayStation 2 |language=English}}</ref> Their city, [[Locations in Spira#Dream Zanarkand|Dream Zanarkand]], was created one thousand years earlier, when a conflict known as the "Machina War" led to Yevon, Zanarkand's ruler and a powerful summoner, taking desperate measures to preserve its memory.<ref name="dreamzanarkand">'''Fayth:''' Long ago, there was a war.... A war between Zanarkand and Bevelle. Bevelle's machina assured their victory from the start. Spira had never seen such power. The summoners of Zanarkand didn't stand a chance. Zanarkand was doomed to oblivion. That's why we tried to save it&mdash;if only in a memory... The remaining summoners and the townspeople that survived the war... They all became fayth&mdash;fayth for the summoning. {{cite video game|title=Final Fantasy X |developer=Square Co |publisher=Square EA |date=2001-12-20 |platform=PlayStation 2 |language=English}}</ref> He had his city's surviving people become fayth so that he could use their memories of Zanarkand to create a new city in its image, far removed from the warfare on the Spiran mainland.<ref name="dreamzanarkand2">{{cite book | year=2001 | editor=Studio BentStuff | title=Final Fantasy X Ultimania Ω | pages=84 | language=Japanese | publisher=DigiCube/Square Enix | id=ISBN 4-88787-021-3}}</ref> Sin was also created at this time, given form by Yevon himself to serve as "armor" protecting himself and the fayth.<ref name="sin4">{{cite book | editor=Studio BentStuff | year=2001 | title=Final Fantasy X Ultimania Ω | pages=82 | language=Japanese | publisher=DigiCube/Square Enix | id=ISBN 4-88787-021-3}}</ref><ref name="sin5">'''Mika:''' Spira has lost its only hope. Destruction is inevitable. Yu Yevon's spiral of death will consume us all. I have no desire to watch Spira die.... / '''Rikku:''' Wait, gramps! Who's Yu Yevon? / '''Mika:''' He who crafts the souls of the dead into unholy armor. An armor called Sin. {{cite video game|title=Final Fantasy X |developer=Square Co |publisher=Square EA |date=2001-12-20 |platform=PlayStation 2 |language=English}}</ref> While continuously summoning Dream Zanarkand, Yevon lost his humanity and became known as "Yu Yevon" (or "the Curse of Yevon"),<ref name="yuyevon">{{cite book | editor=Studio BentStuff | year=2001 | title=Final Fantasy X Ultimania Ω | pages=82 | language=Japanese | publisher=DigiCube/Square Enix | id=ISBN 4-88787-021-3}}</ref> a being existing solely to maintain Dream Zanarkand's existence.<ref name="yuyevon2">'''Fayth:''' Tell me, what do you know about Yu Yevon?... / '''Yuna:''' Sin is his armor. It protects him. / '''Fayth:''' Yu Yevon was once a summoner, long ago. He was peerless. Yet now he lives for one purpose: only to summon. He is neither good, nor evil. He is awake, yet he dreams. ({{cite video game|title=Final Fantasy X |developer=Square Co |publisher=Square EA |date=2001-12-20 |platform=PlayStation 2 |language=English}}</ref> Over the next one thousand years, Sin would persistently attack the people of Spira to keep them from gaining the technology to learn of Dream Zanarkand's existence. [[Image:TidusYunaEmbrace.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Tidus attempts to embrace Yuna as he fades away]] Once the player completes Yuna's pilgrimage to Zanarkand — ending Tidus' extended flashback sequence recounting most of the game's events — she and her companions learn from the unsent spirit of [[List of Final Fantasy X characters#Minor characters|Lady Yunalesca]] &mdash; Yevon's daughter and the first summoner to have defeated Sin<ref name="yunalesca">{{cite book | editor=Studio BentStuff | year=2001 | title=Final Fantasy X Ultimania Ω | pages=82 | language=Japanese | publisher=DigiCube/Square Enix | id=ISBN 4-88787-021-3}}</ref><ref name="yunalesca2">'''Yunalesca:''' A thousand years ago, I chose my husband Zaon as my fayth. Our bond was true, and I obtained the Final Aeon. {{cite video game|title=Final Fantasy X |developer=Square Co |publisher=Square EA |date=2001-12-20 |platform=PlayStation 2 |language=English}}</ref> &mdash; that the Final Aeon is created from the spirit of one close to a summoner, and that when Sin is defeated, Yu Yevon's spirit then possesses it, transforming it into a new Sin.<ref name="reborn">'''Yunalesca:''' Sin is eternal. Every aeon that defeats it becomes Sin it its place... And thus is Sin reborn. / '''Tidus:''' So that's why Jecht became Sin. / '''Yunalesca:''' Sin is an inevitable part of Spira's destiny. It is neverending. {{cite video game|title=Final Fantasy X |developer=Square Co |publisher=Square EA |date=2001-12-20 |platform=PlayStation 2 |language=English}}</ref> Additionally, it is revealed that Auron himself is an Unsent, having been killed by Yunalesca ten years earlier when he confronted her in rage after the deaths of Braska and Jecht.<ref name="auron">'''Auron:''' When Braska and Jecht died defeating Sin... I just couldn't accept it. I came back here... tried to avenge them. But she struck me down. {{cite video game|title=Final Fantasy X |developer=Square Co |publisher=Square EA |date=2001-12-20 |platform=PlayStation 2 |language=English}}</ref> After the party defeats Yunalesca, Yuna and her guardians decide to seek a new way to defeat Sin: one that will permanently destroy him and will not require any sacrifices. Without having acquired the use of a Final Aeon, the party attacks Sin directly using a forbidden machina airship salvaged by the Al Bhed, and enters Sin's shredded body. Inside Sin, the party battles Seymour, this time sending him, Jecht's imprisoned spirit, and Yu Yevon, to the Farplane. Thus, they are able to end Sin's cycle of rebirth forever. Auron dissipates and goes to the Farplane as well, having fulfilled his promise to Jecht and Braska to guard their children. Lastly, the spirits of all the fayth of Spira are freed from their imprisonment, dispersing the aeons, Dream Zanarkand, and Tidus in the process. In a speech to the citizens of Spira, Yuna resolves to help rebuild the world now that it is free of Sin. However, she asks that they never forget the people who have been lost along the way. [[Post-credits scene|After the credits]], there is a brief scene with Tidus underwater. He opens his eyes and begins swimming upward, and the screen fades to white. This scene is later explained in ''[[Final Fantasy X-2]]'', when the game is completed 100%. ==Development== [[Image:Ffxformerlogo.jpg|thumb|left|250px|The former logo of the game, as shown in 2000]] Development for ''Final Fantasy X'' began in {{vgy|1999}}, costing approximately four billion [[Japanese yen]] (approximately [[United States Dollar|$]]32.3 million)<ref name="cost">{{cite web | author=Long, Andrew | date=2001 | title=Financial Fantasy X | url=http://rpgamer.com/news/Q3-2001/071201c.html | publisher=[[RPGamer]] | accessdate=2006-04-29}}</ref> with a crew of more than one hundred people, most of whom worked on previous games in the series. As with most other games in the ''Final Fantasy'' franchise, the characters and story of ''Final Fantasy X'' are distinct from those of its predecessors. Executive producer [[Hironobu Sakaguchi]] states that this is to maintain the novelty of each title and to show off his team's true potential. Although he had certain reservations about the transition from 2D to 3D backgrounds, the voice acting, and the transition to real-time story-telling, Sakaguchi believes ''Final Fantasy''{{'}}s success can be attributed to constantly challenging the development team to try new things.<ref name="interviews"/> For his part, scenario writer [[Kazushige Nojima]] has said that with this installment of the series, he was particularly concerned with establishing a connection in the relationship between the player and main character. Thus, he penned the story such that—since both Tidus and the player find themselves in a new world—the player's progress through the world and growing knowledge about it is reflected in Tidus' own developing understanding and narration.<ref name="interviews"/> ''Final Fantasy X'' also features innovations in the rendering of facial expressions on characters, achieved through [[motion capture]] and [[skeletal animation]] technology.<ref name="interviews"/><ref name="metacritic">{{cite web | title=Final Fantasy X (ps2: 2001): Reviews | url=http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/ps2/finalfantasyx?q=Final%20Fantasy%20X | publisher=[[Metacritic]] | accessdate=2006-04-26}}</ref> This technology allowed animators to create realistic lip movements, which were then programmed to match the speech of the game's voice actors. [[Toshiro Tsuchida]] wanted to do away with the ATB system for ''Final Fantasy X'' but Square didn't allow him to. A compromise was eventually agreed upon, resulting in the CTB system.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/769/769653p1.html|title=Final Fantasy XIII Battle System Detailed|publisher=[[IGN]]|first=Anoop|last=Gantayat|date=2007-03-02|accessdate=2008-03-27}}</ref> ==Audio== ===Voice-overs=== Nojima also revealed that the inclusion of [[voice-over]]s had a substantial impact on the writing of the game's story. He has explained that the presence of voice actors allowed him to maintain a more simple method of storytelling, as the range of emotions that could be expressed through them was greater than that provided by text alone. Nojima has further revealed that the presence of voice actors led him to make various changes to the story and characters themselves, so as to solidify the voice actors' personalities with the characters they were portraying.<ref name="voices">{{cite web | author=GameSpot staff | date=2001 | title=Final Fantasy X - PlayStation 2 News at GameSpot | url= http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/rpg/finalfantasy10/news.html?sid=2829055&mode=all&page=2&q= | publisher=[[GameSpot]] | accessdate=2006-04-29}}</ref> In some respects, however, the inclusion of voice-overs led to additional difficulties. With the game's cutscenes already programmed around the [[Japanese language|Japanese]] voice work, ''Final Fantasy X''{{'}}s [[English language|English]] localization team faced not only the difficulty of establishing English-oriented dialogue, but also the added obstacle of incorporating this modified wording with the previously established rhythm and timing of the characters' lip movements. In his words, lead localization specialist [[Alexander O. Smith]] described the process of "fitting natural-sounding English speech into [...] the high-polygon scenes and CG movies" as "something akin to writing four or five movies worth of dialogue entirely in [[haiku]] form [and] of course the actors had to act, and act well, within those restraints". To this end, each voice actor was briefed on their character's motivations and feelings for every scene, and also shown various scenes from the game itself.<ref name="battleandvoice"/> ===Musical score=== {{main|Music of Final Fantasy X}} ''Final Fantasy X'' marks the first time [[Nobuo Uematsu]] has had any assistance in composing the score for a ''Final Fantasy'' game. His fellow composers for ''Final Fantasy X'' were [[Masashi Hamauzu]] and [[Junya Nakano]]. The game includes three songs with vocalized elements, one of which is the [[J-pop]] ballad "[[Suteki Da Ne]]". It is sung by Japanese folk singer [[RIKKI|Ritsuki Nakano]], whom the music team contacted while searching for a singer whose music reflected an Okinawan atmosphere.<ref name="interviews"/> "Suteki Da Ne" is sung in its original Japanese form in both the Japanese and English versions of ''Final Fantasy X''. The song's title translates to "Isn't it Beautiful?" in English, and its lyrics were written by Nojima,<ref name="interviews"/> while Uematsu composed the instrumentals. Like the ballads from ''Final Fantasy VIII'' and ''IX'', "Suteki Da Ne" has an in-game version together with an orchestrated version used as part of the ending theme. The other songs featuring lyrics are the heavy metal opening theme, "Otherworld", sung in English by singer Bill Muir, and the "[[Spira (Final Fantasy X)#Practices|Hymn of the Fayth]]", a recurring piece sung using Japanese syllabary. ==Reception== {{VG Reviews |1UP = A+<ref name="1up">{{cite web|url=http://www.1up.com/do/gameOverview?cId=2006389|title=Final Fantasy X review}}</ref> |EuroG = 9 out of 10<ref name="eurogamer">{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=3204 |title=Grand Theft Auto IV Review // PlayStation 3 /// Eurogamer |accessdate=2002-06-19 |author=Tom Bramwell |date=[[2002-06-19]] |publisher=[[Eurogamer]] |pages=1}}</ref> |GI = 10 out of 10<ref name="gameinformer">{{cite web|url=http://www.gameinformer.com/Games/Review/200201/R03.0801.1256.47994.htm |title=THE POWER OF EXPRESSION |author=Justin Leeper |publisher=[[Game Informer]]}}</ref> |GSpot = 9.3 out of 10<ref name="calvert">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/rpg/finalfantasy10/review.html?om_act=convert&om_clk=tabs&tag=tabs;reviews |title=Final Fantasy X for PlayStation 2 Review |accessdate=2001-12-14 |author=Greg Kasavin |date=2001-12-14 |publisher=[[GameSpot]] |pages=5}}</ref> |IGN = 9.5 out of 10<ref name="ign review">{{cite web |url = http://ps2.ign.com/objects/014/014008.html |title = Final Fantasy X Review}}</ref> | |MC = 92 out of 100 (53 reviews) |GR = 91.4% (138 reviews) }} ''Final Fantasy X''{{'}}s reception was largely positive, with high sales figures and critical acclaim from the gaming industry. The game sold 90% of its initial 2,140,000-unit shipment — 1,926,000 units — within just the first four days of release in Japan, having already sold between 1.4 million and 1.5 million copies in [[pre-order]]s.<ref name="pre-orders">{{cite web | author=IGN Staff | date=2001 | title=Final Fantasy X Sells Like Crazy; World Not Shocked | url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/096/096716p1.html | publisher=[[IGN]] | accessdate=2006-04-29}}</ref> These figures exceeded the performances of ''Final Fantasy IX'' and ''Final Fantasy VII'' in a comparable period,<ref name="sales">{{cite web | author=IGN Staff | date=2001 | title=Final Fantasy X Approaches 2 Million Copies Sold | url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/096/096825p1.html | publisher=[[IGN]] | accessdate=2006-03-11}}</ref> and ''Final Fantasy X'' became the first PlayStation 2 game to reach sales totals of 2 million and 4 million copies.<ref name="PS22million">{{cite web | author=IGN Staff | date=2001 | title=FFX Tops Sales Charts | url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/100/100730p1.html | publisher=[[IGN]] | accessdate=2006-04-29}}</ref><ref name="PS24million">{{cite web | author=Varanini, Giancarlo | date=2002 | title=Final Fantasy X sales meet expectations | url=http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/rpg/finalfantasy10/news.html?sid=2843955 | publisher=[[GameSpot]] | accessdate=2006-05-01}}</ref> Once among the top twenty best-selling console games of all time, as of March 2006, the game's consistent sales have earned it the position of the second best-selling ''Final Fantasy'' game.<!--, with worldwide shipments of 7.93 million copies. (re-add when a proper source is found)--> As of July 2006, the game has been rated the [[United States|US]] market's 11<sup>th</sup> best selling game of the 21<sup>st</sup> century,<ref name="usmarket">{{cite web | author=Campbell, Colin, Keiser, Joe | date=2006 | title=THE TOP 100 GAMES OF THE 21st CENTURY | url=http://www.next-gen.biz/page10.html | archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20061023205526/http://www.next-gen.biz/page10.html | archivedate=2006-10-23 | publisher=[[Next Generation Magazine]] | accessdate=2006-08-02}}</ref> and was nominated for the 6th Annual [[Interactive Achievement Awards]] for animation and console role-playing game of the year in 2003.<ref name="6thannual">{{cite web | date=2003 | title=Interactive Achievement Awards | url=http://www.gamecubicle.com/news-nintendo_gamecube_acadamy_arts_sciences_interactive_achievement_awards.htm | publisher=Gamecubicle | accessdate=2006-04-26}}</ref> At the seventh anniversary of the PS2 in the United States (October 2007), the game was listed as the eighth best selling game for the PS2.<ref>{{cite web | author=Androvich, Mark | date=2007 | title=PS2 celebrates 7th anniversary | url=http://www.gamesindustry.biz/content_page.php?aid=29985 |publisher=Gamesindustry.biz | accessdate=2007-10-27}}</ref> In 2007, ''Final Fantasy X'' was named third best PlayStation 2 game of all time in [[IGN]]'s feature reflecting on the PlayStation 2's long lifespan.<ref name="3rd">{{cite web | author=IGN PlayStation Team | date=2007-03-16 | url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/772/772296p3.html | title=The Top 25 PS2 Games of All Time | publisher=[[IGN]] | accessdate=2007-03-18}}</ref> ===Critical response=== Both Japanese and western critics have generally given ''Final Fantasy X'' high scores, with the game attaining a 92/100 ("universal acclaim") according to [[Metacritic]].<ref name="metacritic"/> A leading Japanese video game magazine, ''[[Famitsu]]'', awarded the game a near-perfect 39/40 score,<ref name="famitsuandtheplaystation">{{cite web | author=IGN Staff | date=2001 | title=Final Fantasy X Gets Rated in Japan | url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/096/096564p1.html | publisher=[[IGN]] | accessdate=2006-04-26}}</ref> while readers of the same magazine voted it the best game of all time in early 2006.<ref name="famitsureaders">{{cite web | author=Campbell, Colin | date=2006 | title=Japan Votes on All Time Top 100 | url=http://www.next-gen.biz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2401&Itemid=2 | publisher=[[Next Generation Magazine]] | accessdate=2006-03-11}}</ref> Another leading Japanese gaming magazine, ''The Play Station'', gave the game a score of 29/30.<ref name="famitsuandtheplaystation"/> As part of their reviews, ''Famitsu'' and ''The Play Station'' expressed particularly favorable responses toward the game's storyline and graphics, as did the [[United Kingdom|UK]]-based [[Video game magazine|magazine]] ''[[Edge (magazine)|Edge]]''. However, the magazine only gave the game a 6/10, describing it as "Sequential software that labels itself next-gen" without providing a next generation gaming experience, instead repeating "the mistakes ... made on the last version".<ref name="edge">{{cite book | year=2002 | editor=Editors of Edge magazine | title=Edge February 2002; issue 107 | pages=76–77 | language=English | publisher=Future Publishing}}</ref> In this regard, ''Edge'' cites the game's battle and character-leveling systems, describing the former as only "fractionally more complex" than was the case in previous installments of the series, and the latter as "[no] more flexible than the straight leveling from previous games".<ref name="edge"/> ''Edge'' also dealt harsh criticism to the game's English script and voice-overs, regarding the dialogue, "both textual and verbal", as "nauseating". The magazine went on to say that it "renders the pathos comedic, the comedy dead, and ... butchers the whole game".<ref name="edge"/> Multimedia website [[IGN]] offered extensive praise for the voice actors and the innovations in gameplay, particularly with regard to the revised battle and summon magic system, the option to change party members during battle, and what they felt were more efficient character development and inventory management systems. Offering additional praise for the game's graphics, which they suggested "improves on its predecessors in every area possible", they commented that the game as a whole was "the best-looking game of the series [and] arguably the best-playing as well" at the time of release.<ref name="ignreview"/> [[GameSpot]] admired the game's storyline, calling it surprisingly complex, its ending satisfying, and its avoidance of RPG clichés commendable.<ref name="gamespotreview">{{cite web | author=Kasavin, Greg | date=2001-12-14 | title=Final Fantasy X for PlayStation 2 Review | url=http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/rpg/finalfantasy10/review.html?om_act=convert&om_clk=gssummary&tag=summary%3Breview&page=1 | publisher=[[GameSpot]] | accessdate=2008-02-13}}</ref> ''[[GamePro]]'' magazine agreed, saying that despite an "anticlimactic final battle", the story remained engaging every step of the way.<ref name="gameproreview">{{cite web | author=MAJORMIKE | date=2001-12-14 | title=Review: Final Fantasy X | url=http://www.gamepro.com/sony/ps2/games/reviews/19160.shtml | publisher=[[GamePro]] | accessdate=2008-02-13}}</ref> ===Legacy=== Due to its commercial and popular success,<ref name="connectionandsequel">{{cite book | year=2001 | editor=Studio BentStuff | title=Final Fantasy X Ultimania Ω | pages=191 | language=Japanese | publisher=DigiCube/Square Enix | id=ISBN 4-88787-021-3}}</ref><ref name="sequel">{{cite web | author=Dunham, Jeremy | date=2003 | title=Final Fantasy X-2 Developer Interview | url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/442/442025p1.html | publisher=[[IGN]] | accessdate=2006-04-30}}</ref> Square Enix released a direct sequel to ''Final Fantasy X'' in {{vgy|2003}}, entitled "''[[Final Fantasy X-2]]''". This sequel—the first direct sequel developed in the ''Final Fantasy'' series—is set two years after the conclusion of the original story, establishing new conflicts and dilemmas and resolving loose ends left by the original game. Also as a result of the game's reception, Kitase and Nojima decided to establish a plot-related connection between ''Final Fantasy X'' and ''[[Final Fantasy VII]]'', another popular ''Final Fantasy'' title.<ref name="connectionandsequel"/> The advancements in portraying realistic emotions achieved with ''Final Fantasy X'' through voice-overs and detailed facial expressions have since become a staple of the series, with its sequel and other subsequent titles — such as ''[[Final Fantasy XII]]'' and ''[[Dirge of Cerberus: Final Fantasy VII]]'' — also featuring this development. Additionally, traversing real-time 3D environments instead of an overworld map has also become a standard of the series, as demonstrated in both ''Final Fantasy XI'' and ''Final Fantasy XII''. <!-- Final Fantasy X also inspired the masterpiece of [[Mario Petillo]], an Italian writer, that analyzed the history of [[Tidus]] in "a Dream: a Break from the World" (un Sogno: una Pausa dal Mondo), and from the [[Omega Weapon]], monster of the game, created the figure of [http://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omega_di_Djose Omega of Djose], that aroused more than few criticisms in Italy. --> ==Versions and merchandise== [[Image:Tidus32zk.jpg|thumb|A Tidus action figure standing before the cover of ''The Art of Final Fantasy X'']] The Japanese version of the game included an additional disc titled "The Other Side of Final Fantasy", which included interviews, storyboards, and trailers for ''[[Blue Wing Blitz]]'', ''[[Kingdom Hearts]]'', ''[[Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within]]'', as well as the first footage of ''[[Final Fantasy XI]]''.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.rpgfan.com/news/2001/1259.html | title=Final Fantasy X Ships, Includes FFXI Trailer | accessdate=2007-07-21 | date=2001-07-19 | author=Chronologist | publisher=[[RPGFan]]}}</ref> An [[international version]] of the game was released in Japan as "''Final Fantasy X International''" and in [[PAL region|PAL]] territories under its original title. It features content not available in the original [[NTSC]] releases, including battles with dark versions of the game's aeons and an airship fight with the superboss Penance. The Japanese release of ''Final Fantasy X International'' also includes a twelve minute video clip bridging the story of ''Final Fantasy X'' with that of its sequel, ''Final Fantasy X-2''. Additionally, the [[Europe]]an release includes a bonus [[DVD]] as "''Beyond Final Fantasy''", a disc including interviews with the game's developers, as well as two of the game's English voice actors, [[James Arnold Taylor]] (Tidus) and [[Hedy Burress]] (Yuna). Also included are various trailers for ''Final Fantasy X'' and ''[[Kingdom Hearts]]'', a gallery of concept and promotional art for the game, and a music video of "Suteki Da Ne" performed by Rikki.<ref name="beyondff">{{cite web | author=Witham, Joseph | date=2002 | title=Final Fantasy X International Europe Bound | url=http://rpgamer.com/news/Q1-2002/031602a.html | publisher=[[RPGamer]] | accessdate=2006-04-29}}</ref><ref name="beyondff2">{{cite web | author=MAT | date=2002 | title=Game Trivia for Final Fantasy X | url=http://www.mobygames.com/game/ps2/final-fantasy-x/trivia | publisher=[[MobyGames]] | accessdate=2006-05-01}}</ref> In addition to a sequel, Square Enix produced numerous action figures, several versions of the [[Final Fantasy X: Original Soundtrack|game's soundtrack]] and various books, including ''The Art of Final Fantasy X'' and three ''[[Ultimania]]'' guides, a series of [[artbook]]s/[[strategy guide]]s published by Square Enix in Japan. They feature original artwork from ''Final Fantasy X'', offer gameplay walkthroughs, expand upon many aspects of the game's storyline and feature several interviews with the game's designers. There are three books in the series: ''Final Fantasy X Scenario Ultimania'', ''Final Fantasy X Battle Ultimania'' and ''Final Fantasy X Ultimania Ω''. A similar three-book series was produced for ''Final Fantasy X-2''. In 2005, a compilation featuring ''Final Fantasy X'' and ''[[Final Fantasy X-2]]'' was released in Japan as ''Final Fantasy X/X-2 Ultimate Box''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/630/630790p1.html|title=Square Enix Announces Ultimate Hits Collection|publisher=[[IGN]]|author=Gantayat, Anoop|date=2005-07-01|accessdate=2007-11-02}}</ref> ==References== {{reflist|2}} ==External links== {{wikiquote}} *[http://www.square-enix-usa.com/games/FFX/ Official ''Final Fantasy X'' website] *[http://finalfantasy.wikia.com/wiki/Category:Final_Fantasy_X ''Final Fantasy X''] articles at [[Wikia]] {{FFX}} {{Final Fantasy series}} {{DEFAULTSORT:Final Fantasy 10}} [[Category:2001 video games]] [[Category:Final Fantasy X| Final Fantasy 10]] [[Category:Final Fantasy games]] [[Category:PlayStation 2 games]] [[Category:PlayStation 2-only games]] [[ar:فاينل فانتسي X]] [[ca:Final Fantasy X]] [[da:Final Fantasy X]] [[de:Final Fantasy X]] [[et:Final Fantasy X]] [[es:Final Fantasy X]] [[fr:Final Fantasy X]] [[gl:Final Fantasy X]] [[hr:Final Fantasy X]] [[id:Final Fantasy X]] [[it:Final Fantasy X]] [[nl:Final Fantasy X]] [[ja:ファイナルファンタジーX]] [[no:Final Fantasy X]] [[pl:Final Fantasy X]] [[pt:Final Fantasy X]] [[ru:Final Fantasy X]] [[sq:Final Fantasy X]] [[simple:Final Fantasy X]] [[fi:Final Fantasy X]] [[sv:Final Fantasy X]] [[tl:Final Fantasy X]] [[th:ไฟนอลแฟนตาซี X]] [[zh:太空戰士X]]