Playing FFX-2, but haven't really played for days ...
I beat that game by shooting from a rock while standing behind (I think it was) a pink/purple wall that makes sure you can't go to a big fight after you died.
I liked the first game more, I remember having an Omega- or Alpha-shield that was so strong that no enemy could empty it.
honestly I liked the second game more just because it was easier the second time around with the visuals and controls for me. I had a hard time seeing enemies from the background in the first one.