Two things knock the score down for me: the dodge/parry system (which is not badly designed or implemented, just not my cup of tea), and two earlyish sections being very heavy on the whimsy made me lose investment for their duration. Other than that, everything is of the highest calibre.

A perfect game in every sense of the word.

Third act's a little rushed but not enough to knock this down points because it still has its moments. Basically everything else here is impeccable. Banger OST with one of the GOAT world map songs. Deep turn-based combat. Good progression with allotting points and Pictos. Beautiful world. Memorable characters. Not open world but yet the world map is fun to explore. And of course, the best part, a grief-stricken plot that's always intriguing and emotional. Even the humour hits.

I was ugly crying within the first half an hour of the game. Solid writing like I haven't experienced in a very long time.