I wouldn't expect a TP bar if I were you. With the similarities to the Graces system ("3D" battles and the battle effects looking like Graces), as well as what they said about them developing the battle system based on fan opinion (no way fans prefer TP lol), the game will probably use CC.

CC by itself doesn't mean spamming though. Graces could've been better if they handled the weakness system better for one. I'd try to use artes that hit weaknesses but with too many weaknesses and the game being a bit obtuse about hitting them (mainly with A Artes) I mainly used artes that felt better to me.

If they gave a bigger incentive to use different artes (would help if they put in the Artes Ball too), added in aerial combat (which wasn't in Graces), and put less of a focus on the need to guard to break through enemy's defenses, it would be noticeably better.

hmm

Which one looks better?

In that scenario i would completely skip getting the game. Graces combat system is not to my tastes at all. A TP system means you have to think before you use your arts. Not having it equals to a dull combat system i will have to pass on.

The way battles on Graces basically flow is: spam your attacks, runs out of CC, defend and regen the CC, spam your attacks again. Not only that but wichever art you used in terms of damage was irrelevant. What you wanted was to have as many hits as possible when comboing with other party members. Hitting by yourself, equaled to hitting with wet noodles. Its in my opinion one of the worst Tales combat systems i ever played.

I find it hard to believe the Graces combat system is the favorite of the Tales combat systems though. Especially given the sales of Tales of Xillia.