FF VIII is hated because it is not FF VII. It offers amazing gameplay, huge sidequests, great graphics, a cast of interesting deep intertwined characters and alot of optional material. All the different summons (Guardian Forces) and the abilites they come with alone makes the game thrilling. A must play for any RPG games concerned with plots and side quests. Also you can get Odin as a"summon". I put it that way because once you get him he will randomly appear and kill every enemy.