I really like this game a lot. I never played Earthbound but I'm really digging the Suikoden vibe. I only have nine followers thus far don't wanna make it too hard to get the yoga instructor but they're all fairly unique in what they bring to the table, both in and out of combat. Recruiting the teacher is handy because you don't need to run back to school every time it's time to cycle the students, which helps you keep inactive party members leveled.
I've been rolling with the brother, conspiracy guy, and the baker. The brother is a good brawler, and has some nice defensive moves. I mostly use conspiracy guy to ID new mobs it doesn't seem terribly important, but it pleases me to have that stuff filled in but he also hits reasonably hard, and has nice elemental variety. The baker is a solid healer, who can bring the heat when needed and is handy with a rolling pin too. I like his Flour attack; it gives an action point, and the Agi-down means I don't need to make as many buns. Oh, a lot of the character-specific gear is pretty sweet, so don't forget to equip it. lol
Speaking of action points, I think the combat system is pretty cool too. As mentioned, it relies on action points, with basic actions typically generating Energy, and special actions consuming it. So the baker gains Energy by whacking mobs with his rolling pin and tossing flour in their eyes, and he uses that Energy to bake delicious treats for his partners; a Bun uses one Energy, a Donut consumes two, and a Cupcake requires all three of his action points, but fully heals the target. He can also make a variety of cakes. Standard game items like Coffee will also give characters Energy, and the barista can actually serve coffee mid-battle as her special ability. Oh, and they're actually
making coffee and donuts for everyone mid-battle; not simply consuming inventory items, although that's always an option too. Pretty much all of the moves I've seen thus far seem fairly useful in their own way, and there's a ton of variety. So yeah, there's a lot going on there. Almost makes me wish I could have another member or two in my party. lol
Mob density seemed a bit high at first, but once got a chance to grind a bit and get ahead of the curve, the density is helping to keep everyone leveled. Fights usually go pretty smoothly now, and the xp is still flowing nicely, and I have plenty of cash to keep the tutoring going in the background.
I'm not super far in to it yet, but I'm pretty impressed. This is their first game? I look forward to their next effort.
How is the soundtrack? This is very important.
Passable. If it's "very important" to you, I doubt you'd be impressed, but it's not annoying or anything.