Yes, this games has a lot against it: crap graphics, a 2D battle system that consists of little more than button mashing, character outfits so weird looking that I was convinced the main character would turn out to be a robot, no voice acting for half the game, and its the only main tales game not made by the tales team. On the other hand, this is one of the few games that really pushes character development. Unlike most RPGs, which add tons of characters to the group of heros and then ignores them for the rest of the game, you get to know all the characters and watch relationships develop between them, pushing you to finish the game just to see what happens next. The only exception to this is Shirley, who is boring, has an annoying voice, and is scarily obsessed with the main character to the point of trying to kill ALL humans just because he says he doesn't like her.

This game's story is easily the best story of all JRPGs. I tear'd up during each of the game's chapters!

I actually picked up the JP version of this game because there's more voice acting. (one of the pitfalls of the NA version is that they only voiced the first story arc)

-Classic tales gameplay
-Great story
-Great music

Buy this game!

Good product. No Problems. Originally for dreamcast. I noticed some slowdowns in places where there was a lot going on. But that is to be expected for ports to the playstation. Also some slowdowns between menus and whatnot.

The characters are awesome (officially). The game's really exciting - you should get it.

About characters - they each have their own character quest after the main part of the game. That way you'll know more about them.

It is awesome.

I am about 10 hours into this game and doubt I am going finish it. So what is the problem? Why is it boring for me? The combat. I was extremely excited when I found out that there is a combo system within the combat. When I learned how to do the combos I realized that there is no depth in it at all. You connect 3 different moves and that's it? Why can't I connect 5? Why can't I mash moves together and accidentaly discover a great 6 hit combo? No, you use your regular attack, then any base skill, then any higher level skill. I was siked! It's boring and it has no depth. Besides the weak "combo system", combat is nothing more than button mashing. When you are not using your skills with the main character, Senel, you are doing nothing more than hitting the same basic 3 hit combo by pressing your attack button 3 times. Boring and repetitive! Sure it is nice to have real time hack and slash battles in an RPG, but at least make it fun and innovative! I saw the same thing already in Tales of Phantasia and I was not pleased with that game either. Sigh. The story is interesting and may be the only reason for me to play this game. The combat does not impress! I will try to finish this game, but doubt I will. It's becoming a chore to play, but at the same time I can understand why other people may like it. I am just not as patient and forgiving as other players. It's a cheap buy, so buy it if you want; you may like it.