Oh there's definitely character development with Rinoa, Squall, and likely Ellone the others may have subtle character development. I agree with charliepanayi, the Squall is Dead theories are insulting as well to Square. The concept of time travel, as well as the time-loops, are interesting. I just wish Square had translated or published an English language version of the Final Fantasy VIII Ultimania - as well as the Ultimania for IX, those would help explain a vast majority of things that are not explained in the game itself.