I think the combat could be polished up could go either souls-like or Devil May Cry combo system, or maybe something like Dynasty warriors. No need to go turn based
Turn based is by far way more fun than Devil may cry hack n slash with skills. Thats why FF16 is gonna be a failure of a game cause they wanted to do that instead of what actually works, there is a reason why the only game that does devil may cry combat is devil may cry. And no offense to the developer but that combat is difficult to do without mo-cap, it is easier on the developer to do turn based as well.
FF 16 is being made by the guys that made FF14 into one of the best MMOs out there, I doubt it will fail. If people did not find DMC fun it wouldn't sell. Most adult indie turn based rpgs are dull and boring in the combat, just like a lot of 3d adult games. As long as the devs put in the time and effort to make the combat as good and enjoyable as the adult scenes it will be a great game.
You make a very valid point and I agree it's easier and perhaps nicer to re-create turn based combat for a small studio/indie group.
On personal level, I don't think mo-cap is required to deliver amazing animation. I believe amazing animator can achieve great realistic result with traditional bone keyframing method.
We are trying to allocate funds to find great animator and programmer to make the battle an enjoyable experience. At the end of the day, we will have to work out our resources and do our best. From there we will see what works and what not.
Hope you have amazing week!