Loved this game, beat it last week, been a big fan if the series for a while.

In strategy rpgs, in general have the same core idea which is grid based / boardgame like system like chess.  Base knowledge is helpful since similarities usually end there and that's when different games and game makers branch out to different systems.  As long as you take it slow and don't mind tutorials. Then give it a try. Cause Disgaea can get pretty deep in its mechanics.

It's sad that some people dislike it because they hate to grind. If you haven't played a Disgaea game yet they are really good, think fire emblem, but WAY MORE anime and everything is just insanity, also penguins that say dood, what's not to love?