Not one of the best RPG's around
Gameplay-wise:
Hex-based, the gameplay is interesting, with the availability of formation arts (triangle, line, and circle) for physical attacks and combination arts for magic attacks. Of course, since this is a strategy role-playing game, careful strategy and planning prior to battles are essential. Nevertheless, I sometimes find the missions very difficult. For example, I fail the first two tries of the stealth-guard mission, because I failed to notice the guarding patterns of the guards. Only during the third round or so will I be able to devise a strategy to evade their long-distance ability to scout for intruders. In another mission which was also very difficult, I was required to protect the citizens of Poliasha as they escape the prison. It is rather difficult, since on one hand, I cannot control their movements, which means that they run headlong into the enemies sometimes and receive extensive damage, and if they die, the mission is over. On the other hand, I need to constantly heal them, which is an annoyance. Because every slip will cause the mission to fail, this game is very difficult at times. On the plus side, they provide a challenge for gamers.
There are a variety of classes to play with, and as you proceed deeper into the game, there are more classes to unlock. However, certain classes are suited for certain missions, and this would mean that choosing the proper class is important. This, to me, limits the freedom of choosing any class you wish to play with.
Voice acting-wise:
The voice acting just does not appeal to me, or fuel the intended emotions well. I wish the disappointments, fury, happiness, and boldness are acted out with gusto.
Soundtrack:
I actually love the soundtracks, and my personal favourite is the introduction soundtrack (in Japanese). They are just so fresh, and the tunes are catchy too.
Overall:
I would not say that this is one of the best RPG's around, so I would not recommend it to new gamers especially.