I did every side quest, every hunt on the board, and unlocked every Eikon Ability (didn't master them all though, need NG+ for that). The combat is amazing and offers plenty of room for getting creative and huge room for combo potential. The story and characters are amazing, and I think they feel way better and more believable as people than FF7R. The soundtrack does WONDERS for this game, from the most insignificant little side quests to the climax of the game. Like I said earlier, I did every side quest available, but I don't recommend this unless you want to know every detail about the story of the game. I've never been one for NG+ either but this game has changed my mind with how much more there is to experience after finishing my first playthrough. This game is my game of the year.