I know the game has it's flaws (but let's be serious most if not all do) buy did you enjoy it?
I had a big long post that I was composing for about an hour, but I decided it was a mess, and I'm going to take a couple days to get all my thoughts together.
But what I will say, is that gameplay wise, I did NOT like this game. I thought it was too simple, and even by FF standards, way too easy. And then towards the end it turned into this weird minimalist horror game... it was kind of a mess lol. Though after that part ended, and the final chapter and boss rush it did get a bit more challenging, and that was the best part of the game. The story though? I actually liked it a whole lot. Everyone was telling me I'll need to watch Brotherhood and Kingsglaive to understand what was going on, and I completely disagree. I didn't watch either, and I was understanding what was going on pretty clearly. I understand that as they patched the game throughout its life they added more cutscenes and story bits, so maybe that's why I liked it so much, because I got a more complete story than what was originally there. Admittedly there are a few moments where I wasn't really sure what was happening, but they did provide some info either immediately after, or a few minutes after and I was like "oooh I get it". And there were a couple moments that didn't really flow that well. But overall, I liked the story. I actually didn't like the story at first, but around the time I got to the part where you get the sword behind the waterfall, it clicked for me. It's like a fairy tale in a pseudo-modern setting, but with swords and magic and gods and all that good stuff, and then I started to like it a whole lot, and then I didn't mind the cell phones and product placement nearly as much. (Though you're never going to convince me that I can pay for a phoenix down with American Express)
So for now what I'll say is, if you're looking for a FF with good gameplay, this is not it. If you're looking for a FF with a well-told story, play it to the end.
Aside from cup noodles I failed to notice product ads.
As far as difficulty I found this game harder than 7 definitely. But I admit I'm just not as good at action based games as some people. But for me it's probably the second easiest after 7. If you like the gameplay mechanics at all and want challenge play comrades solo.
I agree on the story. Hell you don't even need the dlc to understand what's going on let alone the movie and anime.
Edit: comrades mechanics are slightly different but not much. ---
Cid- "looks like that overgrown lobster just got served!" Bartz-"with cheese biscuts AND mashed potatoes!"