This game is absolutely fantastic turn based strategy game. If you've never tried one before, rent/borrow this first.
Heads up: If you want to download the game it's 8,577 blocks. That's 1072.125 mb, and 1.047gb. I chose to download it, but if you're running low on SD card space this may be a title you want retail.
The downloadable content was pretty good. It didn't feel too expensive for what ya get, and it's available in packs. Not only that, but there are free downloadable things as you progress throughout the game, and the spot pass feature of the 3DS makes it easier to know when new downloadable stuff is available. There's a gold pack and experience pack for faster grinding, but most of the other DLC is added story.
The game looks amazing on the 3DS. The 3D was nicely done, and I haven't noticed any of the problems I've noticed in other games I've played in 3D, such as the screen split being visible. The textures were nothing to brag home about, and if you choose to skip battle animations you will completely miss the best of the art. The 2D art is absolutely stunning though, and I'm extremely amused at all the faces they make when they're surprised, and I really feel for the characters when they express emotion.
The game story is absolutely gripping. There is excitement and plot twist waiting around every corner, and never feels lagging or slow. Unsure of your past and left only with your name, you are thrust into the beginning of the game with chaos and adventure, leaving you with questions along the way. Should two of your opposite gendered characters begin a relationship, they may marry and afterwards you can go save or recruit their child. Sadly no same sex relationship can advance past friendship, but honestly I'm not surprised.
The mechanics are nothing new to past players of the genre, with your classic rock paper scissors type set up. I was sad to see that they took that out of magic, but you still need special conditions to use dark magic. Furthermore, the ability to change your characters class as many times as you want is nothing more that brilliant, leaving you free to maximize the stats of any character in any way you'd like. Also, if you plan who falls in love, their child may inherit skills or classes exclusive to a parent, which is excellent if you plan to have the ultimate characters. Also, in a great break from past installments of the franchise, you can choose if you want permanent death on or off at the beginning of the game, which is great for people who like to play a game in different challenges. I'm currently on my second play through myself with a female character, so I can have a baby with ultimate skills.
All in all it's an excellent game. It doesn't lack much, and it's definitely worth every penny I've spent on it.