Octopath Traveler II (PS4)

Wenn sich manche Boss-Kämpfe ewig ziehen und auch Zufallskämpfe ihren Anteil an Spielzeit einfordern, zeigt sich, dass auch das Sequel größtenteils die eingefleischten Fans anspricht. Nichtsdestotrotz merkt man die Verbesserungen gegenüber dem ersten Teil allen Ecken und Enden – Octopath Traveler II zeigt sich 2023 als Rollenspiel auf höchstem Niveau.

The non-linear storytelling, freeform exploration, and strategic combat of Octopath Traveler II makes for a challenging and satisfying RPG adventure.

In a vacuum, Octopath Traveler II is superior to its predecessor in practically every way, with improvements across the board. If you were into the first one, you will almost assuredly love this one, too. To praise it in this way is partially backhanded, however, as it fails to eke out its own legacy in any way, shape or form.

Following on from the critical success of the Bravely series wasn’t going to be an easy task, but in collaboration with Acquire, 2018 saw the release of the HD-2D JRPG Octopath Traveler. Originally released for Switch, this wonderful little title later came to Windows, Stadia (remember that?) and Xbox One.

In an age where remakes and retro-inspired projects try recreating what classic games of old felt like, Octopath Traveler II accomplishes something impressive. Despite being rooted in modern design with a host of conveniences, it effortlessly captures the spirit, style, and sense of adventure of the best RPGs from the SNES era, while still innovating and showing there’s life in turn-based battles yet.