After approx. 150 hours:
What a epically long, sometimes-awesome, sometimes-frustrating experience. I'd put The Last Remnant easily in my personal Top 10 RPG's of All Time list, probably even in the top 5 right behind Chrono Trigger, FF IV, VI, and Suikoden II.
What I liked:
- battle system that rewards thought, tactics
- rewarding the grind, if done correctly
- interesting, though slow to develop plot
- ability to save anywhere
- difficulty
What I hated:
- difficulty
- crazy, batshit-insane quest requirements
- no stats screen. Seriously WTF Square-Enix?!
- the BradyGames guide. Worst I've ever seen.
Clearly this game was meant to be played with a guide. There is literally no way in Hell anyone would ever be able to complete all of the side quests without one. The way in which the game screws you if you link monsters is bizarre too. I only half followed the recommended leveling guide, linking like crazy early on even. I beat the AC at BR111 on my first try. I had only 3 people with Weapon Arts, but it was enough.
I really hope SE does a sequel to this game, especially given the little extra bit after the credits when you beat the game. The plot is certainly intriguing and I think they've invented a nice little world here. Would be a shame to not see them expand on it.