for the main characters....i wouldn't really know since i can't stand PSU's story mode and have only played the online parts -- they strike me as somewhat lackluster. none of the designs really stick out as particularly inspired, tbh. though i like a lot of the
clothing designs they have, especially the Parum and Neudaiz line of clothing for fleshies.
i think the character creation mode is really good too, i like the fact that each facial 'set' can be adjusted somewhat. the AOTI addition of facial expressions is nice too.
as for improved technology...PSU
is intended to run on the PS2, so while it may fall short when compared to other current MMOs it's pretty good for the PS2. ^^