Gameplay

When you hit R1 on the Playstation controller as your character hits the monsters, your attack does extra damage. However, you have the option of having the game automatically doing the function (for those lazy bums out there). This is highly convenient, but then doesn't allow you to get a "perfect" I have a feeling it just does less damage than if you hit "R1" while you strike.

The Manual

Guardian Forces are somewhat like summons of Final Fantasy 7. However, they can be developed like the characters you use. They can gain experience points (AP) to gain levels which develops their statistics. Those RPG fanatics that like maxing out their characters will now have to spend twice the time playing!

In the world of Final Fantasy 8, spells work in a different system. You don't actually learn spells. You have to "draw" them from enemies and stock them up like items. This is a very strange system from previous Final Fantasies.

You are now limited as to what options you can do. In previous Final Fantasies, you were always given the option of doing whatever you want in battle whether it's using items, magic or fighting. Now, you can only pick 3 of 4 actions to bring with you to battle aside from attacking. Those actions include "draw" (stealing spells from your enemies), "item"(using items), "Guardian Force"(summons) and "cast"(casting spells). I highly suggest equipping "draw", "cast" and "Guardian Force". During this time, using your Guardian Forces would be advisable since they actually develop when you use them to defeat enemies. Drawing from enemies early on is a good idea too because those enemies aren't quite threatening and can contribute a lot of valuable spells in your stock.