This month there are very good games available, like:

- Hardspace: Shipbreaker
- BioShock Infinite
- The Talos Principle
- Sands of Aura

btw, made a collection of all the games distributed to Amazon subscribers. Here: https://howlongtobeat.com/user/guibucher/lists/67205/Prime-Gaming-Giveaways

Final Fantasy XIII
Main+: 38h 41m
Rating: 8/10



Sometimes we need to revisit history, overcome preconceived notions, and challenge all the arguments laid on the table. FF13 has always been a victim of this—of what self-proclaimed influencers have always ranted about this game. Yes, it is a very linear game. But that shouldn’t mean it’s bad, nor should it make the game a disaster just because of that. The story of Lightning, Sazh, Vanille, Snow, Hope, and Fang is well-told, well-structured, and has enjoyable development. It even satisfactorily explains the past and present, as well as the contextual setting where everything unfolds.

There is sometimes a flaw that might push players away: the introduction of a ton of concepts and definitions that aren’t immediately explained, which can lead to some players dropping the game. However, those who are patient are rewarded. Another interesting point is how the game, through its marketing and image, tries to sell Lightning as the main protagonist. But the story’s progression doesn’t fully align with this: all six characters (and sometimes even seven, as Serah has her moments of prominence) have their own moments in the spotlight and well-developed individual stories.

The difficulty spike in Chapter XI is quite disproportionate, which takes a point off my evaluation. Even so, there’s a solid justification for it, one that aligns with the story and context the game provides at that moment. Most importantly, it gives players a reason to explore the side content that opens up in this chapter—perhaps the only point where the game truly feels like an Open World, and certainly the only moment where players have the freedom to go wherever they want, even if that means going nowhere at all.

The Crystarium and Paradigm systems might feel a bit confusing at first, but the way the game introduces new features gradually helps the learning process feel organic. FF13 isn’t perfect—far from it. Sometimes, it’s even tiring. But it’s far from the disaster that some claim it to be. It’s worth sticking with it.

One of the first games I played with my daughter. A simple, fun, fast-paced game that keeps you engaged without relying on tutorials or anything like that. Even my daughter (shes 3 yo) managed to do well in some scenarios and responded well to the controls. Definitely a very enjoyable experience.