The latest Tales of entry is currently in development for the PlayStation 3, and producer Hideo Baba has given JRPG fans a bit more information.

During a recent Famitsu interview (as translated by Siliconera ), Baba spoke about the game's protagonist, Alicia, and how this particular installment will be different than past Tales titles.

Click the link to read up on Alicia, but what we find particularly interesting is the producer's comments concerning the battle system. He says it will revolve around "sword and magic fantasy," which isn't exactly surprising, but he adds that it will be "quite different" from what long-time fans are used to. He further adds that we'll receive an evolved form of the familiar linear-motion combat mechanic, and there's a "big surprise" in store, too. Dragons will play a large role in the game's story, which is nice to know…'cuz dragons rule.

Lastly, Baba said the scenario and character designs are basically finished, and now the team is working on "various systems and graphics." If you weren't aware, last year's fantastically fun Tales of Xillia was a the surprise Best Role-Playing Game winner in our Game of the Year Awards. Can Zestiria also capture our hearts?

Related Game(s): Tales of Zestiria