Late to the party on this one but been playing it up to were you can walk around freely. The only thing i don't really like is the time limit in battles. Been a few times where i've barely managed to clear a level. Other than that it basically just feels like a mash up of Valkyria Chronicles and Fire Emblem. Doubt i'll buy it day 1 but will probably pick it up later in the year when it drops in price.
http://i2.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/original/000/330/958/a5b.gif