Much Ado About Everything

So I got to disk 3 of Final Fantasy 8.  A considerable plot twist occurs at the transition, just like between disks 1 and 2.  At first I thought it was deus ex machina but after a while I will acknowledge that the signs were visible earlier.  It’s still a very convenient explanation, and while it may explain Squall’s situation, it doesn’t explain how nobody remembered their childhood until Irvine reminded them.  Well, it does explain it, but I still have the feeling of “you just came up with this idea right now, didn’t you?”.  They might’ve incorporated some clues into the story after the fact but still, the transition is not natural.  I find it forced, I really do.

On the other hand, the love relationship is evolving nicely.  On disk 2 there were some nice – romantic and/or funny – things happening, such as “tour guide” sequence, ring, and the life-saving from falling death sequence.  Yet, they did feel tacked-on, even though the emotions were natural enough.  But it felt like a decoration on a cake, rather than one of its layers, if you know what I mean.

Furthermore, on disk 3, it seems like Squall has finally changed – and what forced the change is a sudden realisation that he might lose Rinoa.  Nothing like separation to force out the real feelings of a person.  I like it.  Even the Squall himself says that he has changed.  It’s nice to see his behaviour change from stiff “I follow the rules” type of guy, acting all responsible and logical, not allowing emotions to interfere with his decisions – to someone who’ll throw everything away in order to save just one person.  Of course, I’m overdramatizing – I don’t want to spoil it for people yet to play the game.  It’s really not that big of contrast, he isn’t letting the world perish for the sake of one person or anything.  It’s just that even the simple action of running away from one’s responsibilities – that were thrown at him, against his wishes – in order to folow one’s heart is a big step for Squall.

Yet, even then, it still feels tacked-on, the whole romance – even though it’s supposed to be the main focus of the game.  Perhaps they didn’t want to risk losing the pre-pubescent male audience, you know those not-quite-adult boys that scowl at girls and romance?  Or am I just not in the right mood or frame of mind?  Whatever the case, I am not getting that wonderful vibe that I felt during the opening of the game.  Perhaps what’s missing is at least one good CGI cutscene?  Well, actually, there was one; so they did plan the job right.  Maybe it’s my mood?  Hm.