Haven't finished but...

I love the Battle System. Can it be improved, hell yeah but what the game gives you is actually really good and with the exception of a few missteps here and there its definetly one of the better systems in the series.

Sazh - He is easily the games best character and will no doubt fall in line with other FF greats in the series. What makes Sazh stand out in comparison to the rest of the class is that he is instantly likable and probably the only truly realistic member of your party. He avoids the RPG Cliches (though sufferes from a few racial ones...) and he just gets better as the game goes along. His story is probably the most heart wrenching without being overly melodramatic like the rest of the cast. He is also has a freaking Frocobo and is the games best comic relief as well as its only voice of reason.

Gran Pulse -Its been more fun than the rest of the game so far and is easily the most awe inspiring location in the title. Its a shame the game waits so long to introduce it to you.