Mini games are always fun. Various card games and chocobo games are what I have in mind from Final Fantasy. If you've played VII then you'll be aware of the Gold Saucer.
Keep the plot easy to follow. There's nothing worse than a confusing plot. Not even no plot at all.
It's hard to suggest stuff without knowing something about your creation. Keep doing your research.
I find one of the best ways to write something (I write stories sometimes) is to take an idea you like and twist it so it becomes just that little bit different. Detail is a priority (even if the graphics are simple) but try not to repeat yourself with it.
Try not to have too many characters, especially all at once.
Treat the player to goodies consistantly, but not constantly. There's nothing wrong with letting the player start wanting, as long as they don't get left wanting for too long.
I find that having a bad guy that's really bad is a good thing. A bad guy you love to hate. Making them as unpredictable as possible spices things up nicely, and allows you to make their underlings do things they may not stereotypically do.
I also think it's a good idea to have a few characters who you just don't know if you can trust. Neutral people who are necessary for both sides, and perhaps someone in the main group who may later turn out to be a real git.
Giving the player a lot of freedom is great. Let them go or look anywhere within their surroundings. Allowing customisation lets them feel they are actually in control (muhahaha!) and interactive surroundings are interesting.
The ultimate game would be very hard. You'd have to appeal to all target audiences. I recommend narrowing that down a bit.
Did I tell you to keep doing your research?
Make sure the controls aren't too tough, and can also be customised.
What will you be using? Consoles, net, or P.Cs? That can limit you target audience, along with price. I've heard of some great games, but I just can't play them because I have one console and a P.C.
Adding a two/multi player version can be a good idea, but if you can't play it on your own then you limit yourself again.
Don't be afraid to collaborate with someone who can do some aspect of it better than you. Say you know a great conceptual artist, use them.
Of course you may have to get legality involved somewhere.
Did I mention you should keep doing research?
If you can tell us just a bit more about your game it'd really help. Best of luck with it.
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