It took me a long while to get away from the casual setting. It was more than humbling when I went in on my very first game and got more destroyed then I would like to admit.
My MVP for Alms route has been Kliff. He crits like it's going our of style.
As for Fredrick, I tried not to use him. He was way to strong in the early game and unless your playing the hardest setting, he's just a wall to smash against.
No, X-Com is far rougher on the RNG, and Fire Emblem is more forgiving in the character death department. The management needed in both games are very different. The game has a weapon triangle that has a lot more effect then just hope you hit. I love X-Com, but it's RNG seems to have to much...
It was actually my first Fire Emblem game. Maybe not my favorite, but I did really enjoy it and it holds a place in my heart for it. Plus, Lon'qu is the best.
On the other note, I would love a Fire Emblem rp.