Some Goals

What do I want to do here? Aside from the fact that following this blog may be interesting to some of you, what do I have to offer that is worth your valueable time as a reader? I'm not entirely sure, to be honest, but I have some hopes.

To begin with, I'd love to provide, as I go along, a series of gameplay strategies revolving around particularly difficult sections of the games or unusually tough or tricky boss fights. Those of you following along because you've already played some or all of the games will have little need of these, but I hope that there will be those following along who have not yet enjoyed the Final Fantasy Series, and you may find these to be helpful in beginning your own quest. I would consider my efforts here a success if I inspired even a handful of people to try a game they had not previously played.

Secondly, I want to bring together elements of history and mythology in order to shed light on the cultural diversity of the series. Throughout the history of the series one of the greatest constants has been Square's amazing use of cultural mythology in their stories. Those of you who have played will recognize such series constants as Shiva, Odin, Gilgamesh, Excalibur, and the deadly Masamune - you may not know that these come from Hindu, Norse, Mesopotamia, Authurian, and Japanese mythology. Over the years Square has drawn from cultures all over the world and all throughout history in the fashioning of their stories, and I feel these should be explored and understood.

Along side of the cultural/mythological discussion I'd like to discuss story telling as its portrayed throughout the series. Make no mistake, the games are stories, some of which could and should be considered great literature. I'm a masters student in a Creative Writing program, and story telling is very near and dear to my heart. The majority of the world isn't ready to accept video games as a form of literature, but they should be, and I'm willing to fight for it.
Finally, I'd love to just share the experience with you all.

I know, my posts are LONG. I'm trying to reach a point where they won't be. Hang in there.