Got Nintendo Power in the mail...finally. Anyway, while there were a good amount of positives, one thing stood out to me from NP's playthrough. Regarding the combat system: "...occasionally felt drawn out, but we're hopeful that Konami will refine the pacing in the final product."
That's been an issue since LoS.
Regarding the hearts, it's great that they're back and all, but it's just a surface change. Will the fundamental improvements be there--that remains to be seen. There has been evidence for both sides.