Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of The Rift - Gameplay

Gameplay

Grimoire of the Rift uses an isometric turn-based tactics battle system. However, Square Enix further developed the game's grid-based system and increased the number of character jobs. Some enemies also appear in larger sizes, taking up multiple squares on the grid. The world map has also developed, with the introduction of "area maps". The area maps feature multiple battle locations and a town, which work similar to its predecessor. Enemy clans also travel the world map. The game differs from previous Final Fantasy Tactics games because one chooses specific missions from a screen. Some missions are central to the story and can be replayed until successfully completed. There are over 300 other missions in the game that may be replayed in order to level up the player's team. There are also random battles against creatures that occur on the map, which one can choose to fight.

The jobs have been expanded from the first game. Characters learn abilities by equipping job-specific weapons, armour, and items. Clearing battles nets characters Ability Points, which go towards the abilities in whatever items they have equipped. Once they have enough Ability Points, they can use the ability without having the item equipped by Mastering. Eventually, characters can use any abilities they've mastered from two different jobs.

Grimoire of the Rift is compatible with its predecessor, Final Fantasy Tactics Advance. With Advance inserted into Slot 2, a player can begin A2 with the Clan Ability "Libra" already known. This ability is also available later through a mission in the game.