• Features an epic story line and a massive new world to explore.
• Dozens of hours of game play plus numerous side quests and mini-games.
• Improved graphics engine provides lifelike characters and motion-captured animation.
• All enemies can be attacked with beautifully animated Guardian Forces.
• Full support for the latest graphics and sound cards.

Product Description ------------------- This instalment of the best-selling final fantasy series incorporates the theme of love into an RPG storyline of epic proportions. The Final Fantasy VIII world comes to life in a dazzling display of digital artistry as life-like characters and seamlessly integrated CG animation are enhanced with Dolby Surround Sound technology. With Analog Controller (DUAL SHOCK) and PocketStation compatibility. END .co.uk Review ------------- SquareSoft has always had a sure-fire hit when releasing any of their Final Fantasy titles, and Final Fantasy VIII should be no exception. The basis of a good RPG (role-playing game) has always been the story; spectacular graphics are secondary. Final Fantasy VIII's involved and interesting storyline is filled with great twists, well-developed characters, suspense, and romance. As an added bonus, the graphics are beautiful. Everything--from the low-lit jazz club to the steam-filled railroad tunnels--is gorgeous and perfectly sets the mood and tone of a scene. The game mechanics are standard fare for an RPG: acquisition of items and spells, turn-based combat, experience points earned in combat allowing advances in levels. From exploration to battles to dialogue, Final Fantasy VIII has it all. However, Final Fantasy VIII falls to that great weakness of RPGs: random battles. While necessary for advancing in levels, the battles occur with such frequency that they can grow annoying, making for a tedious game experience. The epic storyline spans four discs--over 40 hours of gameplay--and is based around a mercenary cadet who finds himself caught up with an underground rebel faction. He winds up in a plot to assassinate the sorceress who has just seized power from the president. You could complain of limited replay value, but this gripe is of no consequence: the game is such a satisfying experience, it doesn't require replay. Final Fantasy VIII is easily worth both the hype and the wait. You can't buy a much better game. --John Cocking Pros:* A story to beat all stories * Characters worth caring about * Hey--it's from SquareSoft * Stunning animations Cons:* Too many random battles * Combat is, as always, turn-based and offers minimal excitement * Weak souls might give up after two or three discs of play