We really need more screenshots

One of the most common questions we see around the 'net regarding Final Fantasy XV is 'how does combat actually work?' Well, thanks to the game's PAX East panel, which occurred over the weekend, we finally have a detailed look at the systems and mechanics behind the title's battles.

As if it wasn't already obvious, we're dealing with something that's very different to the combat found in other mainline Final Fantasy games. Things are far more hack-and-slash, but some of the basics stay the same, in that you must keep an eye on your HP, MP, and equipment.

Essentially, your melee attacks are based on how you use the attack button. Mashing it may give you a quick combo, while holding it down might make Noctis whip out a bigger sword for a stronger blow, and these techniques can be altered by equipping different weapons into different attack slots.

When it comes to defence, however, things are perhaps a little more complex. Contrary to what many thought after witnessing recent combat videos, you can't simply hold down L1 and become invincible, dodging every enemy's incoming blows. Going on the defensive drains your MP, and when it's all gone, you'll be left vulnerable. Fortunately, both HP and MP regenerate over time, so if you're in a tough spot, you can find some cover to hide behind, or zip off to the nearest out-of-reach place via Noctis' sword-based teleportation.

That's enough out of us, anyway. Take a look at the tutorial video that we've embedded, and tell us what you think of the battle system in the comments section below.

[source youtube.com, via vg247.com]