Seem, I always defended the game just based on "linear isnt bad", not really thinking about the reasons why its linear.
Ive also always been confused why FFX is well liked despite... also being very linear up until it opens up at the end? But XIII got memed for hallways???
I'm the odd one that likes 13 mostly cos its pretty. 13-2 is batshit and lightning returns is a fever dream. I'm slightly biased however as the trilogy was my first ever experience of final fantasy so its very important to me.
Personally my main thing i like about XIII is that i think it has good character development. It is definitely also pretty though.
Lightning Returns fuckin ruled, it was weird though.