I just beat chapter 12. I was overpowered at level 60 and with 4 level 50 skells though. The boss didn't stand a chance at all.
The story is clearly gearing up for a sequel. The new elma looks great. Blue and sexy.
It was a fun 250 hours untill now :). I'm still deciding if i will 100% it. That would likely require a full team of Ares skells and a lot of grinding.
In the wilderness we go alone with our new knowledge and strength.