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4

Honestly this game (both given the same 1 min loading engines and laughable battle animations should you not skip them) is flawed but fun.

It helps a ton to get used to using commands after the commander has moved (or used magic as that is done instead of moving). Attack goes after the enemy whereas charge follows your commander, which is a wasted turn if you charge before moving the commander.

I do like the character interactions on behalf of their troops, as well as the different range of class level ups to test what is feasible, though sole trees don't lead to a 5th class.

You also have to manually end phase as well as order the type of troops (surprisingly AI activates to attack at end phase if not moved, and auto formation is wonky though you do get refunds if you change), which is as inexcusable as the switch load times (God forbid you resumed a quick save or regular one by accident, let alone switch games compared to Grandia HD which at least is instant for loading and booting the games).

The battle dialogue can be as idiotic as the lack of difficulty given weak enemies want revenge and allies who easily own them get scared. The skills, terrain and class changes (killing blows and support magic get experience so watch what you're doing, as well as hp for predicted damage goes down when weaker) do help for some variance, so I'll keep playing.

You have so many troops (about 4-6 per commander/general) that these time saving measures help make the game move a lot better. I also recommend putting whoever does summons in the front (Chris and give Ledin Fenrir by equipping the proper accessories) once the game starts restricting your party in later missions, as your faster characters will catch up from behind, let alone this gives space not to max out your troops and you can target generals to wipe their groups if you're not hungry for exp.

Do note the sequel lazily uses the same engine and almost everything else besides the plot, except you're hassled into encountering reinforcements, or getting copies of items you buy as "rewards". I'd skip it.