Fantasy based on reality just seems like the aesthetic behind VIII and X reaching its full form. Ever since Nomura ditched punk, this is where he was going with FF. FFVII is an anomaly.
That said, I like X. Really don't like VIII. XV is 'meh' propped up in my estimation somewhat by me not really caring enough anymore to be disappointed.
Edit: It is kind of funny. I think FFII, despite being the awkward stepchild, is the root of a lot of FF thereafter, particularly the dominant "IV-strain." Similarly, I think FFVIII, despite being the awkward stepchild between more classically minded VII and IX, is the root of a lot FF thereafter.
That said, I like X. Really don't like VIII. XV is 'meh' propped up in my estimation somewhat by me not really caring enough anymore to be disappointed.
Edit: It is kind of funny. I think FFII, despite being the awkward stepchild, is the root of a lot of FF thereafter, particularly the dominant "IV-strain." Similarly, I think FFVIII, despite being the awkward stepchild between more classically minded VII and IX, is the root of a lot FF thereafter.
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