The gameplay being a mix of RPG and 3D action ala DmC or God of War was also my impression from the start and its definitely something new and fresh and it should make Lightning a more cinematic and badass heroine than ever though I dont know how well this will be received by more traditional RPG fans who are not into action and who already criticized the gameplay of FF XIII to be not RPG enough. The stuff with the white Chocobo sounds cool (Chocobo Eater reminded me instantly of FF X).
Though I disagree that LR is a game for newcomers. I dont think it makes much sense playing it if you havent played the predecessors.