Yeah, it is definitely linear which sucks, but at least i was prepared for it after reading the reviews. The story is ok so far. I guess my biggest gripe is it just does not seem much like final fantasy. The music is mostly electronic which is a big let down, I really love the "epic" scores of the final fantasies of past. I do like the challenge. I have died numerous times which is unusual for a final fantasy game. There is definitely a little more strategy involved in the battles.