I finally completed FFXIII this weekend.  I didn't realize I was getting so close since I still hadn't unlocked the final crystarium.  Turns out you don't unlock it until after you beat the game.  I definitely dug the story of the game.  I also like how the "endgame" stuff was saved until after the boss fight.  In previous games leveling up and attempting endgame monsters before the final boss always left the final boss a complete cake walk.  It's nice to be forced to bring the game to a close before heading off to power-gaming zone.   However, the ending doesn't mesh well with the power-gaming zone, oh well.