LogFAQs > #971896520

3rd is very different. I like it a lot, but it's one of the more controversial entries for reasons that are very understandable.

Also for the record I agree with 3rd not being necessary if you aren't planning on continuing with the series. FC and SC are more or less a standalone story. 3rd has an important role in the context of the series as a whole as well as introduces some specific plot threads for the next sub-series, but I don't think you'd feel like you were missing something if FC and SC was all you had. I do like 3rd a lot though so I recommend it on its own terms even aside from any importance it has or doesn't have to the rest of the series.

Also I don't really advise trying to engage with the series as a whole--just take it game-by-game and keep playing if you want to see more or don't if you're tired of it.