FFX may technically not have any objective dungeons but it did offer exploration and challenging boss fights which could still be as good as any dungeon. It's only linear until after the battle with Yunalesca in the Zanarkand Ruins. It's sky's the limit from there on. And even during the linear moments you have other things to do if you get bored with the main objectives most specifically Blitzball.

In FFXIII there's no other way but forward. Follow the yellow exclamation point on the map or be stuck in that area forever. The game doesn't offer you to take a break. In fact it feels more like a strategic adventure game rather than an RPG.

As for the characters, I'll have to disagree that they're lifeless. On the other hand they're one of the most diverse casts I've encountered (the most bland IMO is the cast of FFXII save for Balthier); A female ex-soldier, a hot-headed leader of some gang, an awkward and inexperienced teenager, a compassionate middle-aged man, a vibrant youth with a dark secret and an aggressive woman. I must say they're portrayed quite realistically. I liked how they interacted with each other and how they each have their own ordeals to overcome.

On a final note FFXIII's main saving grace is its innovative and fast-paced Paradigm Shift battle system. It served as the pillars to prevent the game from falling into a wreck. And I'm glad Square-Enix was gracious enough to give you the option to retry in the middle of battle rather than having to soft reset. If you get a Game Over you can instantly try again rather than be brought all the way back to the starting screen.

But at the bottom line I'm thoroughly enjoying FFXIII. It's still a keeper and I'm enjoying it as much as FFX.