There's not really a pre-set quota on how many cast members to have. I think it will depend more on the specs of the system and how ambitious the combat system is. SE is working on new hardware so I am not really expecting major twists and ambitious ideas on IX or XII's scale. If they can get the combat system to work the way I keep thinking its going to work, I would be a happy camper.
The plot sounds intriguing but the over the top cinematics and the fact Nojima is writing for the game has shot down most of the story appeal for me I'm afraid.
Still it looks promising.
