there don't seem to be too many random battles..... I've passed quite a lot of time playing it. Its worth the $5 price tag. Does seem to have some grinding, but not too bad. The story has been updated with some random current political type humor and references. I do recall running around just hoping for random battles to pass time, at least for me it actually has good pick up and play then put down nature. I'm not sure if the original was like this, but there really isnt a way to know where to go. It will just say goto whatever town. They have patched it once so unlike some apps they are still supporting it.
Overall out of the iphone apps you get the most gameplay for the money (bang for your buck)