While I still prefer traditional turn-based RPGs, I have nothing against RPGs with different styles, either. FF XIII was fine to me, and that's coming from someone who ranks FF XI and Suikoden 2 as two of my favorite games ever.
If there is anything that annoys me about the RPG genre, it's that there is so much complaining. If a RPG follows the traditional formula, then it's stale, if it tries something new, then OMG, it's time to protest. I saw the same thing with Suikoden 3, which I absolutely loved. I don't care if it's traditional, I don't care if it's different, I only care if it's GOOD.
I also have no problem with cut-scenes and extended stories. That's part of what I like about RPGs. I grew up with reading as my primary hobby, especially fantasy and science fiction novels, so I love that stuff.
Active battle systems aren't my favorite thing in the world, but those have been around in RPGs forever. I don't begrudge them their existence.
