One of the grandest JRPG adventures out there that is held back by its deeply flawed gameplay and questionable main party.
+ another incredible soundtrack that ranks among the best in any game
+ fantastical setting just like its predecessor (if a bit less conceptually inspired)
+ remarkable amount of diverse content
+ impressive environmental design
+ solidly written antagonist faction (even if they are individually annoying)
+ ambitious story that often gets silly or corny but still delivers its themes well
+ interesting active combat system with enjoyable timing elements
+ freely adjustable difficulty settings
- a lot of barely explained mechanics
- generally unhelpful map
- memorably bad main character designs
- nonsensical enemy pathfinding and hitboxes
- very slow beginning not helped by the disagreeable initial cast
- bothersome gacha mechanic that promotes grinding for battle effectiveness
- tedious menu navigation that is constantly forced upon the player (field skills...)