I like a variety of different styles of game play. That's one of the good things of Suikoden -- you have three types of Battles (duels, random normal battles, and wars). That way, you aren't always doing the same old thing. All types should be strategic as possible, so that mashing X or whatever button attacks. Nothing is more boring than battles that never require thought.

Another thing is that I'd like (within reason) to be able to choose HOW I play. If I want to rob houses, let me -- just have a consequence (townspeople hate me, fights with guards, jail, whatever). Or let me be Mother Theresa on Niceness pills. It's my game, let me choose.

I want a complex storyline. Everone should have their own agenda. Not just black and white Cloud vs Sephy. I want to spend 3/4 of the game wondering which side is the "right" side. I'd love it if I wasn't exactly trusting of the rest of the team. The story itself should be dark, not like horror movie zomg everybody dies dark, but it should be serious. And take the characters seriously they should be individuals with their own strengths and weaknesses.