If you want the gameplay, I’d recommend trying other Atlus games, like mainline Shin Megami Tensei (keeps the “extra turns on weakness” mechanics but is more deep about it, since you make monsters based on mythology like Pokemon - it’s straight up Persona without lifesim) or Etrian Odyssey (pretty much peak class based JRPG to me, but the good ones are locked to 3DS), though alongside lifesim they cut down on story too.
Most Atlus fans love them for gameplay, which I heard is harder than FF due to importance of buffs and such. Their only JRPGs that I’d recommend for story without lifesim elements are PS2 games like Digital Devil Saga, maybe SMT IV (which is 3DS locked), and Persona 2 I heard. SMT VV for instance has good atmosphere and mythology references, but little character focus.
If you want the gameplay, I’d recommend trying other Atlus games, like mainline Shin Megami Tensei (keeps the “extra turns on weakness” mechanics but is more deep about it, since you make monsters based on mythology like Pokemon - it’s straight up Persona without lifesim) or Etrian Odyssey (pretty much peak class based JRPG to me, but the good ones are locked to 3DS), though alongside lifesim they cut down on story too.
Most Atlus fans love them for gameplay, which I heard is harder than FF due to importance of buffs and such. Their only JRPGs that I’d recommend for story without lifesim elements are PS2 games like Digital Devil Saga, maybe SMT IV (which is 3DS locked), and Persona 2 I heard. SMT VV for instance has good atmosphere and mythology references, but little character focus.
Honestly I just don’t think these games are for me. Maybe if it becomes available on PS Plus one day I could give it a shot.