Ever see the commercials? Yes, THOSE are your heroes. Uber-geeky little pathetic teens, who I suppose Squeenix hoped the players would identify with. If I didn't hate Square already I'd be insulted. The whole war theme is ditched for some kids' pathetic romp in a fantasy world.
The battle system is kinda hurt by the Judge Point system. Randomly you'll be told you CAN'T use a certain thing at the start of each battle, and you'll be penalized if you do. However, often times you don't know exactly what the judge means and you'll screw up.
--all these are MY opinion, anyway.
The GBA Lunar is a bit different I hear, but not a great deal. Someone who played it should probably be able to tell you.
Possibly future purchase: Metroid Zero Mission-remake of the original Metroid given a Super Metroid-style treatment.
DEFINITE MUST BUY--for me if I don't get the PS2 version--Metal Slug 3. Coming in December. An amazingly fun side-scrolling shooting game. It's kind of like Contra, but more fun, with cuter/better art, and even more firepower at your disposal. Blow lots of stuff up--more awesome for multiplayer.