Explore towns, roads, ruins, and dungeons from an overhead view. Speak with residents, collect equipment, solve story events, and recruit allies for the Liberation Army.

Standard battles use a party of up to six characters and a turn-based command system. Characters can attack, defend, use rune magic, use items, or combine attacks through Unite commands. Army battles and one-on-one duels use separate systems, while headquarters facilities and recruitment gradually expand as the story advances.

Recruit broadly and inspect towns after major story events, since many allies become available only after the plot advances. Keep several well-equipped parties ready when the game begins assigning characters to army battles.

Use compatible Unite attacks when practical, but do not neglect rune magic, healing items, and defensive equipment. Save before major decisions and recruitable events; some optional characters can be missed if the relevant dialogue or timing is ignored.