Fans of the Final Fantasy XIII series and collector’s editions rejoice… well kind of (bad news below). Like previous games, Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII is also getting the collectors edition treatment. The edition features premium packaging, an 80 page hardcover art book containing concept art and original sketches, a silver embossed pocket watch (seen in the thumbnail picture), DLC for Aerith’s flower girl costume, and of course the game. Pre-ordering also gets you the Cloud Strife costume as well as the Buster Sword weapon. Unlike XIII-2 it does not include the soundtrack, but still ends up being a bit pricy at $89.99 (USD) without shipping.
Sadly, here’s the bad news; right now its unconfirmed if this collectors edition (or and equivalent) will see the light of day outside of North America. Keep in mind that this is a Square Enix store exclusive, meaning Amazon or any other major retailer WILL NOT be carrying the collectors edition. I do not know if you can import the edition from the Square Enix North America store if you live in Australia or Europe. I want to say that it shouldn’t be a problem, but this is Square Enix we’re talking about. Digital River is handling the shipping and distribution for the North American collector’s edition… they do not have a stellar reputation. Early this year they botched Ni No Kuni’s collector’s edition selling more copies than they actually had available, resulting in some consumers not receiving their copy. Hopefully they learned their lesson, I recommend ordering your copy through PayPal vs the traditional click and buy method, as I’ve seen buyers complain about their address not being accepted for shipping. I’m biting the bullet on this one and purchasing mine… hopefully I receive my copy come February.
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I bought the strategy guide, and pre-ordered the game back in August for my birthday. Had I known about the Collector’s Edition back THEN, I’d have not pre-ordered through GameStop. Either way, I’d just like to buy the pocket-watch itself.
Yeah they announced this edition in December on SE’s site, I’m not sure why they waited so long to do so. The pocket watch is really well made, so if you can get it off of Ebay for a good price then go for it.