(Image source: Atlus.)

Persona 3 FES‘s combat is a curious blend of real-time and turn-based systems.

You explore Tartarus, the ominous tower you ascend level-by-level, in real-time. Shadows, the foes of the game, slither around the levels and combat begins when you hit them or they hit you. Getting the first hit in (ideally a sneak attack) is important and avoiding being hit first is often essential. Reflexes, timing and positioning are thus vital.

On the other hand, reflexes, timing and positioning are of absolutely no importance when the game shifts to the turn-based battle system which actually resolves the combat encounters.
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