True, there was not much explanation as to how to multiply crafting materials for optimal upgrading. I was burned too many times doing that.

I can agree with the 'no downtime' aspect of the game, but then again, these people are supposed to be on the run during that entire part of the game, so I suppose it makes sense that they wouldn't be talking to the bartender in the local tavern 5 times in a row to get a key item. But some respite would be nice.

Loved X-2 when it first came out, so I'm interested to play it (and X, to be honest) with the international/additional stuff.

Yes, it seems like the PSP games are in-betweens and prequels and such. I'll likely attempt to get through them all to see if they help the story at all, but they are not requirements to me to finish.

It's a weekend of replaying through a lot of different things for me, as I purchased both God of War Saga and the Final Fantasy X/X2 HD Remaster off craigslist last weekend for $30 total. Which I thought was a pretty good investment for a PS3 that's currently running strong after it's first YLOD repair in June. I'm…

The Fithos Lusec Wecos Vinosec version of the FF VIII soundtrack definitely makes every thing much more peaceful, especially the world map music you bring up, Blue Fields:

Agreed. Just started a second playthrough, and that game just nails the emotion. The blaring horns during battles, and the frantic pace of the boss themes. The peaceful aspects of when you get to towns.

A random selection here that might be overlooked is the very peaceful Peace of the World from Dark Cloud 2: