I didn't play 2.8, but the battle system seems to be some sort of mix between KHII and 3D with cooldowns on abilities and drive forms, which seems like it could be really satisfying. I am a little worried though, about how many of those big flashy moves there will be and how it will affect the flow of battle (hopefully they're not as intrusive as reaction commands). It's pretty cool how the character portraits change when not in combat as well.
As for the little story bit at the end, I have absolutely no idea at this point. After all the craziness in 3D though, I guess anything could probably happen.
Gundahaar's comments