This game is seriously brilliant and creative. I love all the subtle intricacies, like how Expansion Statuses are mutually exclusive, allowing you to inflict party members with one to protect them from others. I think it's really neat how party members compliment one another with their abilities, and it's fun to adapt your strategy on the fly based on which statuses are in play.
At it's current difficulty, the game can essentially be brute forced without playing around with statuses or team comps, but wouldn't you much rather style on your enemies-- turning them to blueberries and buffing your party's knowledge before unleashing a massive wipe on the next turn? It makes me wish for a challenge mode which demanded that kind of forward thinking. Imagine a cruel and unforgiving castle which removes the healing aspect of the crystals and limits the amount of status clearing items such as deflators and dejuicers, or has enemies acting more frequently in combat with more impactful moves. There would be no escaping Caer and Company's bloated fate!
I would definitely recommend this game for its strong and satisfying combat. The tone is mostly lighthearted with a few moments where the party feels shock or despair, though it's an enjoyable romp with characters that grew on me. The setting feels very much alive as areas you visit see their NPCs later succumbing to the castle's influence, creating a sense that the game's antagonist is always closing in.
I hope this title continues to see updates from its creative and talented developer!