Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII’s concept was originally had a constant flow of time, but was changed due to ‘Glory Point’ system, according to design director Yuji Abe.
Speaking with Dengeki, Yuji Abe explains the ‘biggest changes comes from an ability that allows you to stop time during play, which he feels will vastly change how the game is played.’
“The gauge on the lower-left part of the screen is called GP, which is something like a convenience point system. This can be used during battle, to teleport to specific areas on the field, or to even stop time.
For example, if you have a lot going on (and not enough time), you’ll be able to stop time. So, if you go ahead and use GP without any hesitation, your playthrough will surely be easier,” Abe explained.
“It stands for Glory Point, which can be acquired upon clearing battles. Originally, it was part of the Radiant Power (points given to the Tree of Life, Yggdrasil, to extend the lifespan of the world) but that would weigh in on the balance of the world’s life span, so we separated it so as to not cause any hesitation. Now, it can be used without having to worry about the world’s life span.”
Dengeki points out that few players will try to beat the game without taking part in battles, to that Abe says, “I believe there will be a huge hurdle to doing that.
However, Lightning will be able to level up by simply clearing key events, which will increase her parameters. Again, if you want to increase her parameters by a larger amount, you can also purchase equipment.”
The dungeons in game will bring in plenty of structures and differences in elevation, which allows players to move from areas located to the top to the very bottom.
He adds, “Our games have never put too much consideration into the idea of ‘being able to go to areas that look accessible,’ so we’ve made it our goal to take that part a step higher.
Covering 100% in those regards might be a little difficult, but I’d say that you’ll be able to go to about 90% of all visible areas.”
Additionally, the game will be open world structure for the most part, you’ll be able to move around continents seamlessly with loading screens show up when you teleport to a different location, when you’re relocated during a story event or when you get in a Vehicle.
Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII is set for release on February 11, 2014 for PS3 and Xbox 360.
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Thanks, Siliconera.