I want to like Tales of Abyss, but it is ultimately lacking in inspiration. A cumbersome journey.
The first 10 hours or so were a real drag due in large part to the fact that the protagonist, Luke, is a jerk of epic proportions! He is one of the worse characters ever, and it makes the adventure so cumbersome. He doesn't care, so why should I? While he does tone down a bit later in the game it doesn't really make him any more likeable. Unfortunately, I didn't find the supporting cast to be all that great either. Mieu is the most annoying cute-thing, guy has an annoying phobia to girls (really?), Jade lacks a personality, Natalia and Asch are brats just like Luke, Ion is too passive, Anise is ok I guess, and Tear (the cutest of the bunch) comes off as surprisingly hollow. While I'm used to not liking the complete cast in most RPGs, it's rare that I can't find at least one to relate to and that is clearly the case here.
The plot also falls on its face simply because it tries to over-complicate itself. In what appears to be an attempt to stand out from other RPGs, TOA tried to go into all of these fon slots, scores, etc. to make up a new world. It just doesn't work. It's too far removed from the real world and it's unnecessary, nor is it enjoyable to try to understand what's being talked about. In this case, I share in Luke's apathetic demeanor. Further, the "save the world" plot has simply been done to death. Narrow the scope down a bit.
That aside, the battle, world map, and dungeons are standard Tales. The battles are simple melees, but they are generally enjoyable. It would be nice if they could throw in some flashier special movies with dynamic camera angles. Otherwise, I don't really have a complaint about the battles. The dungeons are generally short, with scattered treasures. This game operates on the classic formula of town, world map, dungeon, boss, repeat. It's a little old but adequate. The most frustrating experience I have had, however, is when the characters indicate they want to go somewhere but it is not marked on the map because you have not "discovered it" first. I wouldn't have a problem with that if there were other places to go and things to do, but there is not. So I end up getting frustrated sailing the open seas randomly checking ports for the town I'm supposed to be going to. While the synopsis contained in-game sometimes help, I often find it is too vague. I have had to consult a map online to get to my next objective several times. My general feeling is you should never have to consult a guide to progress in a game.
In conclusion I don't recommend buying this game unless you are a die-hard Tales fan who missed playing it on the PS2. Hopefully, a more modern RPG will hit the system soon.