Although the load times aren't overtly lengthy, they are significant, and they become a nuisance because they occur so often. Like all of its other facets, Legend of Mana is excellent in its control. You can move in 8 directions, and a dash button allows you to travel through the area maps at a brisk clip. Most of the action abilities also respond fairly well to your commands. The menu design is brilliant, too, though it takes a little bit of time to get used to.
Control does have some weaknesses as well.
In addition, your characters tend to move sluggishly in combat, and action abilities like the dash or back dash generally don't offer enough maneuverability to hold a high level of utility. Although storyline is its weakest department, Legend of Mana is still strong in this facet, especially when compared to other action RPGs. In the large scheme of things, your goal is to grow a new Mana Tree in the world of Fa-dil. However, the storyline mainly focuses on the many smaller events involving the large cast of NPCs in the game, and these stories are interesting and often humorous. Like most other action RPGs, character development is minimal, but there are a few great emotional moments in the game.