Thanks. I've noticed there are a lot more characters to interact with, which is great for fleshing them out but also kind of bad in that I feel like I'm neglecting certain characters. It feels like if I don't talk to a character enough and help with that character's personal problems, he or she will end up dying later in the game. Is it like that? Or is there enough time to help/get to know everyone?
You can save people if you pay attention and help them when needed, don't worry too much about that. I'd focus on hanging out with characters you like and who you want to use for battles. You get cool bonuses in battle if you level up their friendship.