I just don't see why they felt the need to obfuscate every miniscule detail in the combat system. The game wasn't long enough for half the stuff to even matter.
It took me 20-25 hours on my first playthrough, and repeat playthroughs on higher difficulties will definitely test how well you can use the battle system as well as weapon management.
I got hand it over to you. I take it back.
This week I ran into an interview with the Atlus PR and among many games they talked about Knights in the Nightmare. The youtube video by its side had some tutorial links for the game so I thought "why not check them out".
After that I picked up the game and wow, I'm loving it. Slowly understing some stuff but most of it is okay now. I'm really glad I gave this another go.
I do hope the story gets a little clearer because as of right now I have no idea of what is going on.
Glad you're enjoying it! It's still one of my favorites.