Graces' strong point isn't character development, it's more about character interaction. Really wish they had focused on that more instead of FRIENDSHIP FRIENDSHIP FRIENDSHIP.
Xillia seems preeeetty good so far, though honestly I feel like it's a step down from Graces' combat. The biggest offender is obviously TP, but I really hate that they went back to the old camera. I really thought having it behind your character made it much more satisfying, so seeing them from the side is a big letdown.