Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remastered in Stores March 18: Amped Up Graphics and Nostalgia Improve Classic Game

Final Fantasy X was first released in 2001, and for its 10th year anniversary, Sony has announced the release of a remastered version of Final Fantasy X/X-2.

The updated version was already released in Japan on Dec. 26, and will finally be released everywhere else on March 18. Both games will come together in a $40 bundle exclusively on the PlayStation 3 and the Vita.

Unlike other Final Fantasy games, the 10th iteration and its sequel deal with mostly the same group of people in the same world. Otherwise, the games shift focus by starting over in a new world.

When the game debuted in Japan, it sold 182,638 on the PS3, and 134,645 on the Vita, according to PlayStation Life.

Reviews are beginning to roll in for the remastered version, and while it looks like we can expect some seriously amped up graphics, some are complaining that the game's attention to detail feels a little inconsistent.

"Square Enix didn't just raise the resolution and call it a day; the visual overhaul is noticeable. Barren areas now teem with detail, color, and life. Where blurry, green landscape filled the backdrops, shrubbery now thrives...However, telltale signs - like the characters' awkward mannerism - show that these are still PS2 games at their cores," wrote Game Informer.

Game Informer added that Square Enix upset fans with the remastered soundtrack, but that it wasn't as jarring as was expected.

Destructoid said the game's "turn-based battle system now seems a bit simplistic compared to more recent JRPGs." While some of the graphics look better, this makes the non-player characters are more noticeably bad, Destroid added.

"I'm impressed with how well both games hold up, and the extra story content, improved graphics and re-recorded musical score gives an old fan something new to see," wrote IGN in its review.

Criticisms aside, most seem to think the game is still an enjoyable experience based on nostalgia.