The player explores an overhead world map, towns, ruins, and dungeons while controlling a party of up to six combatants. Battles are turn-based: characters can attack, defend, use runes, use items, combine attacks, or attempt to retreat.

Progression comes from story events, experience levels, equipment, rune abilities, and recruiting allies. The headquarters develops as the story advances, unlocking shops and facilities. Special chapters use duel rules or larger army battles instead of standard party combat.

Build a balanced party instead of relying only on one damage type. Keep several characters equipped and leveled because story events can change party availability.

Recruit widely and return to earlier towns after major events. The castle’s facilities, shops, blacksmith, rune services, and optional recruits provide substantial long-term benefits.

Save before major choices, duels, and army battles. Pay attention to formation, weapon range, rune charges, and combination attacks; they often matter more than raw level.