The game begins with a dramatic sequence in Valhalla, introducing you to Lightning's new role. After the initial cutscenes, you'll gain control of Noel Kreiss. This section serves as a tutorial for basic movement and combat. Follow Lightning's instructions and engage in the scripted battles against the Chaos Bahamut. These encounters are designed to teach you the fundamentals of the Paradigm System and Feral Link abilities. Don't worry too much about strategy here; the game guides you through it. Once the Valhalla sequence concludes, you'll find yourself in New Bodhum, 700 AF, where Serah Farron's story begins. Speak to the villagers and follow the objective markers to progress. Your first major task will be to investigate the meteor crash site, which leads to your fateful encounter with Noel. This prologue sets the stage for the entire adventure, introducing the core mystery and the bond between the protagonists.
While Final Fantasy XIII-2 utilizes the cinematic Cinematic Bonus system for its boss finishers, Final Fantasy XVI evolves this concept through its seamless, high-octane Eikon battle sequences.
While Final Fantasy IX traditionalized the Active Time Battle system, the prologue of Final Fantasy XIII-2 evolves it further through cinematic Cinematics Actions and dynamic role switching.