New Lightning Returns Gameplay, Featuring the Dead Dunes

Set to release in Feburary 11, 2014 for Playstation 3 and Xbox 360 in North America, Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII appears to deviate from its FFXIII predecessors in a few ways. New gameplay footage highlighting the Dead Dunes emerged from the recent Japan Expo in Paris, France, which also displayed changes to customization, combat, and mechanics.

Mechanics

• The screen shows the health and ATB gauges with the mini-map and day timer (gauges previously unseen).
• The world appears more open; exploring may be similar to that of Final Fantasy XII.
• You can skid down sandy hills to quicken your pace.

Combat

• It’s like a Paradigm Shift (FFXIII) mixed with the class changes in FFX-2—you can “quick change” to different abilities, weapons, and attire. Just a few of these changes include Equilibrium, Dust and Shadow, and L’Ange Noir (Black Angel). Each change is associated with specific abilities to switch to on the fly, much faster than Paradigm Shifts. You switch using the front triggers L1 and R1.
• There is no menu for commands anymore. Each button is associated with an ability (square is Evade, triangle is Thunder, etc.). You can change them in the main menu.
• You have free movement to run around and maneuver.
• Lightning now has a weapon and a shield, allowing you to actively block (thank goodness).

Appearance and Customization

• As usual, very cool weaponry and armor, but now they are visible on Lightning.
• You can change the color of Lightning’s armor.
• Schematas are your quick changes, followed by a Sub Schema that further customizes your abilities and looks. 

Lightning Returns has a new look, and I’m totally thrilled about what’s in store. Lightning takes on the burden of being The Savior and is on her own this time. With the new additions, this may be the fulfilling installment fans have been waiting for. And for those who weren’t very involved with FFXIII or XIII-2, this may be more up your alley.

From what you see in the video, what are you most excited for in Lightning Returns?