Hard mode playthrough, need tips

[crimsonruby_dragon]

I've decided to play hard mode, I've got through the 1st 5 chapters but I want to know if theres any good tips for playing through hard mode?
I know Earth affinity supports are good for hard mode but are there any other things I should keep in mind throughout the game?

[Haken]

Try to forge weapons for those start-out-weak-but-really-awesome kind of people. It should help them kill of enemies and perhaps double some if you are lucky.