I've never been a fan of Critical Mode anyway to be honest, so it being unlockable is fine for me since I was already planning to begin with Proud Mode. I've always found Proud Mode to be the best difficulty for the series. It's hard enough to be plenty challenging, but not so hard that it starts to become annoying and ruin enjoyment. Up until I platinumed the 2 ReMIX's, I almost never touched Critical Mode. The same will apply here. I'll run through Proud Mode to experience the game, and then do it again on Critical for the inevitable trophy it will unlock. So, Critical having to be unlocked is fine by me.