So..I picked up a used Gamecube, and thought "Hmm..this is a game that I've heard a lot of people say is really good, and got good reviews."

...So, I have high expecations for the game, and I get treated to...a game with no exploration, a generic 'mercenary' plot (Complete with bandits and everything), completely flat and generic characterization, and a watered down uninspired grid battle system.

It's not like I expected it to be hugely great or anything, but this game makes all the other RPGs I picked up in the last year I thought were lacking in some way look absolutely brilliant.

They use a lame rock-paper-scissors strength/weakness system, it doesn't matter in the least which side you attack from, every attack is automatically countered, the enemies hardly even move on their own, I'm not even sure you can use items on other people. All the elements that usually make strategy/RPGs, well, strategic, are missing.

So...a few questions.

1) ...Does this game ever get remotely better, in plot, or gameplay? For instance..is there ever any..actual strategy in the game?

2) How the hell did this game get an 85 metascore and this popular?!

3) Okay. Now that I have a Gamecube, which games *should* I buy? All I have is this and ToS.

Remember, that's there opinion. From what you have said in other forums, you are a pretty big RPG fan. This means you have played several and you are looking for a challenge that will test your true mental ability. Remember, people who review this may not be looking for an extremely complex or difficult RPG. You are though.

And for Gamecube games? Well, there's:

Super Smash Bros. Melee
Mario Kart Double Dash
Paper Mario
Metroid Prime 1&2
Resident Evil 4
Wario Ware Mega Party Games

That's just a few to name.