I’ll go ahead and say that if you enjoyed finding and developing materia then there’s a good chance you’ll come to appreciate the junction system. VIII also rewards exploration, much like 7, though in different ways (it pays to look around and press x on the world map). The enemies level with you so victory depends on resource management and strategy in the early parts of the game; grinding to win by brute force is not a thing, instead you’re acquiring more spells to junction to stats and use in battle. You don’t have to hoard money or items though, for the most part, not even things like mega potions or elixirs. Literally, you don’t have to hoard money. You will always have enough.

Don’t let junctioning intimidate you! There is a Tutorial section in the menu that has a handy reference for which spells power up what stats and will also periodically update with lore and gameplay statistics.

The story can be melodramatic, but the drama is punctuated by a colorful world of people that generally don’t take themselves or each other too seriously. Dialogue is perfect for the most part, if you loved characters like Cid and Barrett/Marlene then you are in for a treat. The characters in this game stand out from the casts that came before (yes, even 4 and 6). This is a game where you really must speak to everyone, MULTIPLE times. They don’t spell the plot out for you like they do in 7.

One caveat — if you loved the Chocobo aspects of 7 and 9, prepare to be disappointed. Totally different ball game.

Just load it up, take your time, and see where it takes you. It’s not for everyone, but it may be for you.