There are a lot more anime cutscenes, the story (and sometimes embarrassing dialog) and even the animated skits have concepts of anime and manga in it. I guess the biggest thing so far is that during skits, the characters will make gestures that literally lead directly into a panel with an image that looks like it was drawn just for manga. (Really low quality example, but
here's one image. Aside from that, everything looks more colourful, the theatrics seem to be at its best, and the whole experience just feels much like an "anime game" than the previous Tales games did.
It's really hard to explain, but once you start playing you definitely feel a difference. I am recording what I play so maybe one day it can portray my thoughts better. Even the dishes you cook lean more towards Asian cuisine. Sandwiches and stuff are still around (gotta have 'em in a Tales game!), but I've already made fried rice, omelette rice, and sushi. It's awesome, I love it.