RpNation

Mmmm I was just considering buying that game...tell me more about it...is the plot connected to the previous installment?

I'm not that far in but as I can tell; no. It's a sequel in the same way that a new Final Fantasy is. There are some nods to the first game such as the Nopon and one of the main characters having Monodo hairclips but there doesn't seem to be any real connection in terms of plot.

The world is absolutely MASSIVE. Not just in terms of sheer size but the amount of things to do. Exploring it aimlessly is a ton of fun and they've really gone to great lengths to mix up enemy placement so there's a constant threat without it feeling overwhelming. For how impressed I am with it already I know I've seen less than one-tenth of it at this point.

Combat is a greatly improved version of the previous title's. Haven't gotten all the mechanics of it unlocked yet but having a melee and ranged weapon to switch between adds a fun layer of micromanagement in that you're constantly switching to charge bonus damage for your arts. Still haven't gotten the mech but I'm sure that'll be just as entertaining.