LogFAQs > #914837160

I agree. Visible enemies may cause some annoyances depending on how they're implemented (e.g. having to move several screens away or reset to respawn enemies or not being able to avoid certain encounters), but I definitely prefer them overall. I like the control they give you over what enemies you face (if any), as often you'll want to encounter a specific enemy (for a drop, steal, etc.). Even just seeing information about encounters or being able to view what you're encountering is nice and can allow for things like optional tough enemies a la Xenoblade.

Some of this can be emulated in a random encounter system, but ultimately it pales in comparison to the real thing.

That said, I don't mind random battles if the encounter rate is reasonable. Even better if there is an indicator showing when a battle is going to happen and there's some control over the encounter rate, like in Shin Megami Tensei: Nocturne.