Got it. This is an impression for somebody who hasn't played a lot of Tri-Ace RPGs. Haven't had time for RPGs in the last few years until recently (lost odyssey, Blue Dragon).
The opening sequences remind me of adventure game levels than RPG levels. You complete the stage and if you accomplish certain things during the level you get bonus'. The first few sequences showcase some of the game's systems well I think. I love how well done those condensed tutorial cards are. They explain the systems very well and if you want to look at them again they are in the menu.
You are certainly rewarded for surprising enemies and are punished for being surprised. The combat is fantastic already and I am only 1.5 hours in so far. Everything is so flashy and exciting. I even love the money "jingle" as it hits the floor after kills. it reminds me of Diablo.
Lots of characters get introduced quickly. It seems like there will be tons of opportunities for tweaking character combinations, which is fantastic.
I was expecting the non-voice acted cut scenes so they did not jar me as much, but it was weird. I think 1up's review said that most non-voiced scenes are at the beginning though? Either way, does not bother me.
The graphics and character modes are quite good aside from a few goofy faces here and there at certain angles but for the most part the graphics are very, very good. Much better than what I was expecting viewing the videos. The opening cinematic is classic Square-Enix awesomeness and got me pumped to play the game.
Sheathnig and unsheathing sword and being able to be attacked while in menus reminds me of some MMOs, and it's good. I like the tension of having to find a safe spot to set yourself up to do some housekeeping but some may not. For me, any tension added to an RPG is good because most RPGs lack it at all.
The music is awesome and the voices that are present are excellent. I like Capell's and Aya's voices especially. Very well done VA so far. VA has come a long way quality-wise in the last few years that's for sure.
The camera was weird until I inverted the horizontal axis and now its exactly like the Blue Dragon camera, so I'm right at home.
So far I think the game has a ton of potential and I'm looking forward to it. The action nature of it makes me think that this is one RPG that I may actually play through again on harder modes to get that extra content because, once I'm used to its ins and outs, I can really explore what it has to offer and maximize the experience the second time around.
So yeah, only a little ways in but I'm liking it a lot.
