Nice review, and while I've only played the first two games in the series, I agree with most of your views. I actually really enjoyed the exploration in XIII-2 after how little was overall present in XIII.

I could never really empathize with the hate for Snow. I respect him for trying to be helpful and someone for others to rely on, even if it doesn't always work out. Overall I liked the cast of the games, even if I prefer the majority of other FF casts.

And really, the series is visually and acoustically beautiful. Just, beautiful.