It’s just days away that Final Fantasy XIII will be released. 2 weeks from now, the western world will see the light and decide if FFXIII is indeed a masterpiece, or mediocre. The developers updated their diaries to address current issues.

Motumu Toriyama spoke out about the linearity issue.

In order to allow the player to become absorbed in the drama of storytelling and the new and exciting world of Cocoon, and be drawn to the characters without getting distracted or lost, we have deliberately used a linear game for introductory sections so they can be enjoyed in the same manner as a film.

furthermore

..Cocoon is a story driven game, while whereas the second half of GRAN PULSE IS AN OPEN DESIGN GAMEPLAY

So are fans calling foul on Final Fantasy XIII, far too early? Remember the reviews were only 1/3 into the game, before Gran Pulse. Perhaps have forgotten how much they loved the other games in the past that were just as linear? Or maybe the game really is really too predictable. A game that is linear isn’t necessarily a bad one, but is critical to story telling.

There’s more about the musical masterpieces diary, and its a good read. HERE

Source: FF13 US site