Square Enix seem to be going all out now with their The Last Remnant information with an update today including 70 new screenshots and a breif outline of the games battle system !

The Last Remnant Forum

A New Battle System Requiring a Different Strategy for Each Clash
In the world of THE LAST REMNANT, battles are fought between multiple friendly and enemy unions. Players give commands to unions as a whole, who perform actions accordingly. Orders in battle are given in a command-select style. However, these battle commands will not be set terms like "Attack" or "Magic," but rather specialized orders like “Tear them to shreds!” or “Attack, but watch yourselves!”.

Available commands change depending on conditions like the current battle situation, or the distance and positions of friendly and hostile unions. The player must consider all these factors to craft a victorious battle strategy.

Morale, a Key Factor
Morale refers to the determination and spirit of the characters in battle. Players can check current morale via a gauge across the top of the screen, easing tactics and general battle management. The higher the morale, the more damage is dealt and less damage is taken by friendly unions, and vice-versa. Battle commands also change with the current morale level, keeping players on their toes.

Battle Flow
In the world of THE LAST REMNANT, enemy monsters freely roam the land, where they can be avoided or engaged at will. When battle is initiated, the scene changes to a specialized battle map where friend and foe fight it out. Battles are fought between multiple friendly and enemy unions, groups of up to five characters who fight together. Players give commands to unions as a whole, who perform actions accordingly.

When friendly and enemy unions are close enough for melee combat, they enter a state called Deadlock. Once in deadlock, the two unions cannot change targets, but must fight each other until one has been completely destroyed.

The horizontally-lined icons labeled A, B, C, etc., represent hostile unions. The player can choose which hostile union they wish to attack on this screen. Next, while keeping careful consideration of the placement and conditions of each union, a battle command must be selected. A variety of commands can place focus on dealing damage or executing defensive strategies. Knowing which command is suitable in each situation is the key to winning battles.

Once every friendly union is issued a command, they will take action accordingly. The turn is over when all friendly and hostile unions have completed their assigned actions.

Cruxis Mana via forever-fantasy.net »