nubsauce

Of all the games I've played this year, I've had the most enjoyment with this one. It's paced just right, there's a good mix of puzzles, action, stealth, cutscenes and exploration. Despite not having played the previous FE games, this one's story has got its hooks into me, and it's got me wanting to go back and play the old FE games. I appreciate that they don't try to cram exposition down your throat--that would be unnatural and forced. Instead, they drop subtle clues about the previous games. All in all, this is a great game. The puzzles are great, the environments are great (seriously, this is not a mobile game--the environments here are so detailed), the plot is very interesting, and it's paced very well. I enjoy scouring the levels for all the hidden goodies as well and the littles notes you can find scattered around the level are great too. The only thing is that the combat is a little half-baked but still fun. Worth the purchase for sure, and I would play it again.

The worst story out of any Tales game I've played to date (from Xillia, Vesperia, and Symphonia). Characters are dull, and combat isn't fun. :/ I could never get into a rhythm like I did other Tales games, due to the combat system wanting you to stop and recharge all the time. The story was engaging at first but quickly became dull and tiresome after the 15 hour mark. Some people said it gets better after the 15 hour mark, but no, they actually did a good job on the setup and making you intrigued on where it goes. It goes nowhere with this setup and instead goes in the most cliche, boring way possible.

Played 37 hours in 4 days...this game is my life right now. If you want to get addicted, this is your game... Btw, the game is peppered with nice slice of life humour, and Fiore's ass is so beautiful I could stare at it for days. :P