KingMike wrote:
As I recall, the PS1 version only removed encounters on the world map but the GBA version reduced the overworld to a menu.
Right. I don't remember very clearly because I played the GBA version quite a few years ago, but I think the overworld followed a very similar system to the one Grandia used (prefixed points on a huge map and you chose with a cursor where to go, moving there instantly). I've always found that system so-so (I can put up with it if the game's plot is good enough). But for me, a standard "nes/snes era" overworld in a jrpg is bliss.