Since you, Che, are asking about our thoughts on the Villian I'm assuming you are talking about an actual character, this case being Barthandelus? The only reason why I ask is because the primary antagonist in this game is "fate".

This game is very story-driven and there are three different types of story: plot-driven, character-driven, or a balance between both. Final Fantasy XIII is very character-driven, so much that the plot is light or weak. The story focuses more on the character's conflicting over their focus than them fighting against the Fal'cie/Sanctum.

Then again, could not fate be considered the villian, it does not have a form nor can the characters interact with fate but I could be considered as a villian.

I won't go into much depth here as that is for the "FFXIII Review" thread. Barthandelus as a villian is pretty good. His manipulation was good though not greatly done.



Quote Originally Posted by Ralz View Post
The main attractions for me are that not only was he in a position of absolute power, but he was also the one thing the people hated, WHILE being in a position of absolute power. That is awesome.
If by "people" you are talking about the party (i.e., Lightning and Company) then yes they don't like him and his nature (Fal'Cie). If however you are referreing to the populace of Cocoon, then what you said is incorrect. Barthandelus is a Cocoon Fal'Cie, the people of Cocoon like or love Cocoon Fal'Cie. They are not afraid of Cocoon Fal'Cie, they are afraid of Pulse Fal'Cie. Now if the people found out Barthandelus' plan for Cocoon they wouldn't like him that much, but they don't know that. The people of Cocoon depend on Cocoon Fal'Cie to protect them, to provide the necessities of life, to power the advanced technology of Cocoon that make life easier, and to guide the Sanctum/people in times of great need.