It's a standard JRPG in terms of plot and character, but it plays like an action RPG, similar to the Tales games or Eternal Sonata with a lot more of attacks available and not turn-based. Like Eternal Sonata, you can see enemies on the screen at all times.

Battles are separate from the world/dungeon screen. Depending on how you enter combat you get advantages/disadvantages. So much like Eternal Sonata, always try to attack the enemies from behind and never get caught with your back to them.