I've tried to pick up and play this game multiple times because everyone that is into the Tales game genre has spoken so highly of this game. I can definitely see that there is something special about it too. I think it's fair to say that this game, and perhaps even this entire genre of games, is just not for me. There are certain JRPGs that I can vibe with, and this just isn't one of them. Therefore, don't take my rating as a fair assessment of the game itself.

The game feels like you're playing in an anime. Unfortunately, in my experience, between playing this game and watching anime, I think I'd rather just watch anime. I love the idea of engaging more deeply in an animated world. However, the gameplay elements just aren't exciting enough to make it worth the extra effort of providing the input. The game systems are also incredibly vague and confusing. I'm not entirely sure I understand them, or even want to bother understanding them at this point.

One thing I will give the game credit for is the story elements and atmosphere. Velvet is a badass, and it feels awesome playing as such a dope female protagonist for the first portion of the game. The opening soundtrack is also one of the most hype songs I have ever heard. The title screen has been the most intense parts of the game for me so far.