I think Fates had the best map and scenario design of the series, but its story was pretty disappointing, the characters were not well-handled compared to previous games, and the children and extra-dimensional base just didn't mesh with the rest of the game at all. It was both a step forward and a step backward. Awakening may be considered simple by FE story standards, but the way the mechanics, themes, characters, and story came together in that game make it one of those few games where the story and gameplay perfectly compliment each other and enhance each other, and ensure that I keep coming back to it every year. These reviews make me feel that Three Houses might be able to recapture that magic touch that made Awakening so appealing.and have its various elements compliment each other again. We'll see tomorrow.