If nothing else, Konami certainly deserves an award for Most Improved RPG Developer. While it isn't quite up to the standards set by Suikoden II, Vandal Hearts 2 represents a tangible improvement over its lackluster predecessor. The most obvious improvement to the sequel is a world map very similar to those of Tactics Ogre and Final Fantasy Tactics. The first Vandal Hearts was a completely linear adventure, but you're now given the freedom to travel about the continent to visit towns and battlegrounds.
Any attack is thus subject to failing if the target moves out of the way at the same time.
Consequently, the order in which you takes your turns is almost as important as what you do during those turns. With a bit of foresight, you can also predict where the enemies will move to and set up an attack at that spot. In this sense, the system resembles Parasite Eve, as you collect weapon abilities to pile together on one super-weapon. Most of the skills and spells are simple attack abilities of various elements, but you'll also find abilities that heal other characters, open chests, restore HP gradually, or even alter the terrain. The original Vandal Hearts challenged you with a unique mission objective in nearly every stage, such as exterminating a band of guard dogs within a set time limit.