I remember writing in my one entry on the subject (and telling everyone who will listen) that I think they could have had a stronger story if they had not bothered with the player input-heavy protagonist or the poisoned prince, and instead made Strohl the protagonist... on account of him having a personality and a significant stake in the plot! It's certainly less awkward than his accidental tendency to use Billster as a mouthpiece for his viewpoints. Especially if Strohl's desire to be worthy of his title did organically lead to him setting aside an outdated monarchist system.

But Atlus gonna Atlus. I am really looking forward to the DLC and/or updated re-release, whenever they come. Say what you will about this studio, I really am appreciating their output rate.