I actually didn't dislike the battle system as much as many people, but the linearity and "story" were just downright awful. Chapter 10 was among the most painful experiences I can remember from an RPG, with plot points so forced it was gag-worthy, and Barthandelus and really the whole plot after chapter 9 seemed like a last-second add-on. The gil and weapons systems were also haphazardly forced into the game. I agree with you that the Steppe and Oerba were highlights in the game, but I also agree that they far from make up for all of the other negatives.

It boggles my mind that this is ever compared to FFXII, because XIII is the anti-XII to me. Everything I hated about XIII, XII did almost the exact opposite.