Some would say it's like arguing which is better, being punched in the nuts or being kicked in the nuts.
With that eloquent analogy behind us, I'm just curious for opinions here. These are probably my least favorite FF games for various reasons. So I'm wondering which you all like more and why.
I'll make a quick comparison.
Battle System
X-2 by miles. The Junction system is well known for its crappiness. There is absolutely no identity to your characters beyond their limit breaks. What does it matter if you switch out Zell for Irvine? Just equip what junction you had on Zell to irvine and presto.
X-2's Job System was a lot of fun however. There were a variety of classes that you could apply to any situation or you could be a bit more tactical and switch it up for different fights. Regardless, fights were fast-paced and awesome. I liked how magic casting finally took time as in you could physically attack someone while they prepared a spell. That's how it's supposed to work....
Story
Ooh boy. Not exactly comparing giants of storytelling here are we. Still, I'll give X-2 the nod for its non-linearity. If you want the story, you have to go out and find it out. FFVIII just kind of shovels plot in your face and down your throat.
"We all grew up together!"
Characters
Well I liked Yuna, hated (X-2) Rikku and Paine was okay.
I hated Rinoa, loved Selphie and was indifferent to the rest.
For antagonists...oh yeah Ultimecia is so kewl. What with her absolute lack of motivation beyond what fans speculate about.
Seifer was pretty awesome though.
Shuyin was clearly the best antagonist of the three though. Has some actual backstory and sympathetic motivation.
Music
Unquestionably goes to VIII. I like X-2's soundtrack well enough but it's really not on par with the music of the other FFs.
And that's my two cents. Your turn.