Yes, it would be a better comparison but even then they are different like you said. Both have in common that there's no transition between the field and combat screens, and having direct control of one character (you can move him in the battlefield).

FFXII uses an ATB combat system automatized by gambits, and it does have classic stuff like magic points and all that. Gambits can be disabled, and if you do so you can have control over the actions of your other party members (but you don't have total control over them because you can't move them in the battlefield).

Xenoblade uses a MMO-esque combat system with cooldown managing instead of magic points. Allies are AI controlled. Then there's those bars under the character portraits that I don't know what they do. And that's all I know from watching like 2 mins of combat gameplay :P

Xenoblade is different than FFX. But when I say they are similar, I mean in quality. You can not like FFX if you want, but it had a great deal of effort put into it in story, characters, visuals, music, depth. It has a bizzare and creative world and plot. I personally loved FFX, but even if you didn't but you like extremely well produced jrpg's, you should give Xenoblade a try. It's production and artistic effort are outstanding.

I kind of wish you could set something like gambits in Xenoblade.  The AI is freaking dumb.

  I just inflicted break on him Reyn.  It's the begining of the battle and you haven't used Wild Down yet.  I know I set it on you, and I know it's available.  WHY YOU NO USE WILD DOWN?!

And that's one of the reasons why I prefer turn based, full control over all the characters. What I do determinates if the party suceeds or fails.

With AI partners I end up being the team nurse (which I hate) or let them die and beat the bosses alone.

Every gen we hear "we will get better AI" but it never happens.

My new copy of Xenoblade came in the mail today! So excited, but I haven't had time to play it today. I went to church this evening (I'm Catholic, and we also have mass on Saturday nights) and went out to eat. I'm also tired. I may play it tomorrow, though, but I'm still trying to complete everything in Endless Ocean: Blue World on my Wii U.

This is my second favorite game and favorite RPG of all time. XD

You have Xenoblade but would rather play Endless Ocean?!?!?

Lol, that's one of my most regreted purchases of alll  time.....And one time I bought a Mouse with no cord...

Don't worry, he'll realise his mistake when he starts playing the game

Ugh every time I get over this game you guys make me want it again.