When I be but a wee nerdling, I had an unhealthy obsession with Brian Jacques' Redwall book series. While other children frolicked in parks or used superior numbers t' overwhelm prey or whatever normal children do, I dreamed a talking mouse-people 'n magic swords the size a thumbtacks. Over time, however, even Child-Me realized that I be basically being asked t' pony up for slightly different spins on the same swords 'n' sorcery 'n' rodents-for-some-reason story. Same journey progression, same character archetypes, same pervasive message that badgers be the Best Animal, etc. But I read, like, 14 a the things, because they be comfortable -- the literary equivalent a a hug or that Snuggie no one knows ye own.

Namco Bandai's Tales series hedges it be bets on a taking up a similar role in the lives a it be fans. Tales a Graces F doesn't reinvent any wheels or cure Japanese RPG characters a their tragic case a radioactive bedhead, but it be an especially strong showing from a series that knows how t' make ye instantly feel right at home.