Yeah, I've seen that a lot of reviews have given it pretty mediocre scores. I'm really enjoying this game. I love the battles between each monster just because of how difficult they can be. Sometimes you get lucky, and you make it out without a scratch. Other times, you get your ass handed to you.
Also, as your beating up a monster, they get a bunch of cuts and huge gashes from the pain you've delivered. I thought that was a nice touch instead of just having blood appear.