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81

MONSTER

Star Icon

Octopath Traveler

2018
GenresFantasy, Adventure, Side View Perspective, RPG, Top-Down Perspective, Anime and JRPG, Single Player
AvailableJul 12, 2018
PlatformNintendo Switch, PC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5
DeveloperAcquire
Overview

A role-playing game from the Bravely Default team is being developed exclusively for the Nintendo Switch. They have brought a new world to life through a mix of CG, pixel art, and "HD-2D" visuals.

Score icon

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

73

TL;DR

Octopath Traveler’s fractured, character-driven narrative splits critics: while its bold experimentation and vivid arcs captivate some, others decry its incoherent structure and repetitive storytelling, leaving it as a divisive, experimental gamble that prioritizes standalone tales over a unified plot.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

73

Positive Reviews (80-100)

40%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

55%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

6%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Octopath Traveler receives praise for its unique narrative structure and individual character arcs. Critics like IGN and CGMagazine highlight the game’s unconventional approach, noting that the eight distinct stories are well-written, nuanced, and offer a refreshing departure from traditional JRPG tropes. Destructoid commends the dramatic intros and varied tones of each character’s journey, while The Sydney Morning Herald appreciates the diversity in themes, ranging from lighthearted to dark, such as explorations of kidnapping or ritual sacrifices. The non-linear storytelling allows players to experience characters’ arcs out of order, which ZTGD and Digitally Downloaded praise for its flexibility and focus on personal development. Additionally, Critical Hit and Twinfinite emphasize the engaging, well-crafted nature of individual narratives, with some stories standing out as compelling and memorable despite the fragmented structure. However, the lack of a cohesive overarching narrative is a recurring criticism. Impulsegamer and New Game Network describe the story as messy, uninteresting, and lacking in character development, while Multiplayer.it and GameSpot note that the disconnected stories fail to intersect meaningfully, diminishing their impact. Wccftech and RPG Site criticize the repetitive structure, arguing that the eight tales feel like side quests rather than part of a unified experience. Metro GameCentral and Slant Magazine point to weak dialogue and saccharine melodrama, while GameRevolution and PC Invasion highlight missed opportunities for character interaction and plot convergence. Even IGN, which acknowledges strong individual stories, admits the narrative struggles with pacing and predictability, and Shacknews critiques the dry, drawn-out dialogues that detract from engagement. Overall, critics are divided between appreciating Octopath Traveler’s experimental storytelling and criticizing its execution. While IGN, CGMagazine, and Critical Hit celebrate the game’s bold approach to character-driven narratives, many others, including Impulsegamer, New Game Network, and GameSpot, find the lack of cohesion and repetitive structure frustrating. The game’s success hinges on whether players prioritize individual character experiences over a unified plot, with some reviewers like Pocket Gamer UK acknowledging the experimental style as forgivable despite its flaws. Ultimately, Octopath Traveler is seen as a divisive title: a creative risk that offers rich, standalone stories but falls short of delivering a tightly woven, immersive JRPG experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Octopath Traveler’s fractured, character-driven narrative splits critics: while its bold experimentation and vivid arcs captivate some, others decry its incoherent structure and repetitive storytelling, leaving it as a divisive, experimental gamble that prioritizes standalone tales over a unified plot.

86

TL;DR

Octopath Traveler delivers addictive, strategically rich turn-based combat with innovative "Break" and "Boost" mechanics, diverse classes, and nostalgic JRPG charm, though grinding, repetitive structures, and generic dungeons dampen its polish—yet its blend of tradition and modern depth cements it as a genre standout.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

86

Positive Reviews (80-100)

87%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Octopath Traveler is widely praised for its engaging turn-based combat system, strategic depth, and nostalgic yet modernized mechanics. Critics consistently highlight the innovative "Break" and "Boost" systems, which add layers of tactical planning by allowing players to exploit enemy weaknesses and chain attacks. For instance, GameSpot and Critical Hit commend the game’s focus on breaking defenses and coordinating abilities, while Wccftech and Nintendo Life emphasize the variety of classes and customization options through the job system. The ability to assign unique "Path Actions" to characters, as noted by Yahoo!, enhances interaction with NPCs and adds narrative depth. Additionally, the game’s blend of classic JRPG elements with modern conveniences—such as the "Boost Point" system (PC Invasion) and multi-classing mechanics (RPG Fan)—creates a satisfying balance between familiarity and innovation. Many reviewers, including The Sydney Morning Herald and Impulsegamer, laud the combat as both challenging and rewarding, with strategic planning and party composition playing pivotal roles. Despite these strengths, several critics point to repetitive structures and grinding as significant drawbacks. Multiplayer.it and GameCritics criticize the necessity of leveling up through tedious grinding, which can detract from the overall experience. Vandal and ZTGD note that the rigid chapter structure and generic dungeon design feel outdated, while New Game Network and RPG Fan argue that the job system, though expansive, lacks thematic cohesion. Additionally, some reviewers, like PC Gamer and COGconnected, mention that while the combat is deep, it can become monotonous over time due to repetitive enemy encounters and the need for specific strategies. The lack of a shared experience pool (RPG Fan) and vague side quests (God is a Geek) further contribute to frustrations, suggesting that the game’s design occasionally prioritizes tradition over innovation. Overall, the majority of critics agree that Octopath Traveler delivers a strong gameplay experience despite its flaws. While issues like grinding and repetitive structures are acknowledged, the game’s turn-based combat, strategic depth, and nostalgic charm resonate positively across multiple platforms. GameSpot, Critical Hit, and TheXboxHub emphasize that the game successfully modernizes classic JRPG mechanics without losing their essence, while Yahoo! and Impulsegamer highlight its addictive gameplay and engaging systems. Though not flawless, the consensus is clear: Octopath Traveler is celebrated for its thoughtful design, offering a rewarding experience that appeals to both retro enthusiasts and modern gamers. The balance of innovation and tradition, coupled with its robust combat and customization options, ensures its place as a standout entry in the JRPG genre.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Octopath Traveler delivers addictive, strategically rich turn-based combat with innovative "Break" and "Boost" mechanics, diverse classes, and nostalgic JRPG charm, though grinding, repetitive structures, and generic dungeons dampen its polish—yet its blend of tradition and modern depth cements it as a genre standout.

90

TL;DR

Critics hailed Octopath Traveler's HD-2D visuals as a stunning blend of 16-bit nostalgia and modern polish, with vibrant art, dynamic lighting, and immersive worlds. Minor flaws like static NPCs and technical hiccups were overshadowed by its innovative, nostalgic charm, cementing it as a JRPG masterpiece.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

90

Positive Reviews (80-100)

92%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

8%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The majority of critics praised Octopath Traveler’s graphics and visual design as a standout achievement, celebrating its innovative fusion of retro aesthetics and modern techniques. Many highlighted the game’s “HD-2D” style, which blends 16-bit pixel art with dynamic lighting, depth-of-field effects, and vibrant environments. Gameblog.fr noted the “modernized pixel art with impressive blur and lighting effects,” while Impulsegamer lauded its balance between “16-Bit nostalgia and modern graphical prowess.” The game’s paper-craft-esque landscapes, detailed character sprites, and lush 2D visuals were frequently praised, with NintendoWorldReport calling the snowy areas “stunning” and Vooks describing the art style as “visually stunning” with “gorgeous lighting effects.” Critics like Game Informer and IGN emphasized how the hybrid 2D/3D approach creates a dreamlike, immersive world, with RPG Site noting its “charming ‘HD-2D’ presentation that evokes nostalgia.” The game’s ability to modernize classic JRPG visuals while maintaining authenticity was a recurring theme, with many calling it a “stunning ode to the JRPGs of the past” (Yahoo!) and a “beautiful homage to 16-bit era RPGs” (3DJuegos). While the overall reception was overwhelmingly positive, some critics pointed to minor flaws. Slant Magazine critiqued the “dead” depiction of life in towns, noting NPCs felt like “taxidermist’s trophies” with little movement or interaction. Forbes mentioned that the pixel art occasionally looked “washed out,” and God is a Geek highlighted performance issues like “random stutters.” Additionally, RPG Site and others noted that depth-of-field blur could be distracting, and PC Invasion pointed to “minor details in character designs” that could have been improved. Some critics, like GameSpot, observed that characters rarely felt connected outside of battle, though this was a minor quibble compared to the game’s broader visual strengths. These critiques were largely overshadowed by the consensus that Octopath Traveler’s visuals were a bold, creative success despite their occasional imperfections. The overwhelming majority of critics agreed that Octopath Traveler’s graphics and visual design were exceptional, with its HD-2D approach earning widespread acclaim as a unique and visually striking innovation. Reviewers like Gameblog.fr, RPG Site, and Metro GameCentral emphasized how the game successfully bridged retro charm with modern polish, creating a “dreamlike” and immersive world. While some noted minor technical or artistic shortcomings, these were rarely detractors from the overall praise. The game’s ability to evoke nostalgia while pushing visual boundaries was seen as a triumph, with outlets like IGN calling it “stunning” and Game Informer highlighting its “beautiful 2D pixelated graphics.” Ultimately, the consensus was that Octopath Traveler’s visuals were not just functional but a defining strength of the game, solidifying its place as a modern classic in the JRPG genre.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics hailed Octopath Traveler's HD-2D visuals as a stunning blend of 16-bit nostalgia and modern polish, with vibrant art, dynamic lighting, and immersive worlds. Minor flaws like static NPCs and technical hiccups were overshadowed by its innovative, nostalgic charm, cementing it as a JRPG masterpiece.

89

TL;DR

Critics hailed Octopath Traveler’s soundtrack as a masterpiece, praising its orchestral grandeur, nostalgic charm, and emotional depth, with comparisons to JRPG legends like Uematsu and Shimomura. While voice acting and minor repetition drew some criticism, the music’s immersive power and character-driven motifs solidified it as a defining gem of 2018.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

89

Positive Reviews (80-100)

89%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

11%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The majority of critics overwhelmingly praised the sound design and music of Octopath Traveler, highlighting its exceptional orchestral compositions and nostalgic yet fresh approach to JRPG aesthetics. Reviewers like 3DJuegos and Critical Hit lauded the soundtrack as "excepcional" and comparable to the golden era of Nobuo Uematsu’s work, with each character having unique motifs that blend seamlessly into battle themes. CGMagazine and Hobby Consolas emphasized composer Yasunori Nishiki’s talent, comparing his work to legends like Nobuo Uematsu and Yoko Shimomura, while GameCrate noted the "full orchestra" evoking classic JRPGs. The music’s ability to evoke a "full spectrum of feelings" (CGMagazine) and its immersive quality—whether through serene village melodies or intense battle tracks—was repeatedly celebrated. Vooks called it "magical," and We Got This Covered highlighted its emotional weight, with orchestral pieces reflecting the gravity of each character’s journey. The inclusion of both English and Japanese voice lines was also seen as a positive, adding to the game’s charm (3DJuegos). While the music received near-universal acclaim, some critics pointed to minor flaws in voice acting and sound design. Metro GameCentral and Switch Player criticized the "sparse and hammy" voice-acting, noting that it felt repetitive or underwhelming, particularly in English dubs. GamingTrend and God is a Geek mentioned inconsistencies in vocal quality, though they acknowledged the Japanese delivery as stronger. Additionally, New Game Network observed that the music’s impact slightly waned over the game’s lengthy runtime, suggesting some tracks became less impactful with repetition. However, these critiques were relatively few compared to the praise for the soundtrack itself, and many reviewers emphasized that the music remained a standout element despite these issues. Overall, the consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with Octopath Traveler’s sound design and music being hailed as one of the game’s defining strengths. The orchestral score was frequently described as "exquisite" (Slant Magazine), "brilliant" (PC Gamer), and a contender for the best OST of the year (Critical Hit). While voice acting and minor technical aspects drew some criticism, these did not detract from the general admiration for Nishiki’s compositions. RPG Site and Twinfinite noted how the music enhanced storytelling and immersion, while Nintendo Life praised its emotional depth. The game’s ability to blend retro-inspired melodies with modern production values resonated strongly with reviewers, cementing its soundtrack as a key factor in its success. As ZTGD stated, the score was "the reviewer’s favorite OST of the year so far," reflecting the broad acclaim it received across platforms and publications.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics hailed Octopath Traveler’s soundtrack as a masterpiece, praising its orchestral grandeur, nostalgic charm, and emotional depth, with comparisons to JRPG legends like Uematsu and Shimomura. While voice acting and minor repetition drew some criticism, the music’s immersive power and character-driven motifs solidified it as a defining gem of 2018.

72

TL;DR

Critics praise Octopath Traveler's voice acting for boosting immersion and character depth, with dual English/Japanese tracks offering flexibility. DarkStation and Vandal highlight standout performances, while The Sydney Morning Herald praises the volume. However, inconsistencies, awkward delivery, and repetition—criticized by COGconnected, GameCrate, and GameSpot—undermine some moments. Though flawed, it’s a solid, if uneven, cornerstone of the game’s appeal.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

72

Positive Reviews (80-100)

39%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

61%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Octopath Traveler receives a generally positive reception from several critics, who highlight its strengths in enhancing immersion and character development. Reviewers like 3DJuegos and IGN note that the inclusion of both English and Japanese voice tracks enriches the narrative experience, allowing players to engage with the game’s world in multiple ways. DarkStation praises the English voice acting for being “impressive” and “selling every character perfectly,” while Vandal and ZTGD commend the performances for making characters feel compelling despite their archetypal designs. Additionally, The Sydney Morning Herald emphasizes the sheer volume of voice work, which helps bring the game’s diverse cast to life. These positives suggest that the voice acting effectively supports the game’s storytelling and world-building, even if not all aspects are flawless. However, several critics point out notable shortcomings in the voice acting, particularly its inconsistency and occasional lack of polish. COGconnected criticizes the English voice work for falling short of expectations, noting that some performances feel “off” compared to Square Enix’s usual standards. GameCrate and GameSpot highlight mismatches between dialogue and accents, as well as repetitive or unengaging delivery that can make story sequences tedious. Switch Player specifically calls out the voice acting as “repetitive,” detracting from immersion, while Attack of the Fanboy recommends switching to Japanese VO with subtitles due to the English dub’s lower quality. These critiques suggest that while some characters are well-voiced, others suffer from uneven performances or technical issues, which can undermine the overall experience. The overall consensus among critics is mixed but leans toward a balanced view: the voice acting is competent and occasionally impressive, though it has clear flaws. While God is a Geek acknowledges inconsistencies and awkward moments, they still praise the main characters’ dialogue and performances, particularly for Olberic and Therion. Conversely, COGconnected and GameSpot note that the variability in quality can make certain story segments feel tedious. Despite these criticisms, many reviewers agree that the voice acting contributes positively to the game’s charm and accessibility, especially with the option to switch between languages. Ultimately, while not flawless, the voice work is seen as a solid component of Octopath Traveler’s broader appeal.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics praise Octopath Traveler's voice acting for boosting immersion and character depth, with dual English/Japanese tracks offering flexibility. DarkStation and Vandal highlight standout performances, while The Sydney Morning Herald praises the volume. However, inconsistencies, awkward delivery, and repetition—criticized by COGconnected, GameCrate, and GameSpot—undermine some moments. Though flawed, it’s a solid, if uneven, cornerstone of the game’s appeal.

78

TL;DR

Octopath Traveler delivers stellar PC performance with customizable settings and smooth gameplay, while its Switch version shines with portability and seamless mode transitions—though both platforms face minor glitches and stutters that don’t detract from the overall solid technical experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

78

Positive Reviews (80-100)

45%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

55%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Octopath Traveler receives generally positive feedback across platforms, with notable strengths on both Nintendo Switch and PC. On the Switch, reviewers like New Game Network praise its "quick boot times, autosaving, and smooth transitions between handheld and docked modes," while Vandal notes that minor slowdowns do not detract from the overall experience. The game maintains stability in both portable and docked modes, as highlighted by 3DJuegos, who mentions that performance is "good" despite a slight loss of definition in handheld mode. On PC, the port is lauded for its flexibility and optimization: Attack of the Fanboy emphasizes improvements like customizable resolution and texture settings, while COGconnected and The Games Machine highlight smooth gameplay even at maximum graphical settings. Gameblog.fr also notes that initial display issues were quickly resolved, underscoring the PC version’s reliability. However, technical shortcomings are evident on both platforms. On the Switch, God is a Geek reports "occasional performance issues like random stutters," while Metro GameCentral mentions "odd graphical glitches" that affect immersion. Shacknews points to framerate hiccups and navigation bugs, such as the party getting stuck on obstacles, though it does not explicitly rate overall stability. On PC, while most critics praise the port’s performance, SpazioGames notes that the PC version is a "1-to-1 port with no significant technical additions," suggesting a lack of enhancements compared to the Switch release. These issues, however, are generally minor and do not overshadow the game’s broader appeal. Overall, critics agree that Octopath Traveler delivers solid technical performance, particularly on PC where customization and optimization shine. While the Switch version faces some minor glitches and stutters—acknowledged by God is a Geek and Metro GameCentral—its portability and seamless mode transitions (as noted by New Game Network) make it a strong choice. The PC port, with its flexibility and smooth execution, receives near-universal praise, though it lacks the unique charm of the Switch’s hybrid design. Despite these nuances, the game is widely regarded as technically sound, with most critics emphasizing that any issues are either negligible or easily mitigated.

TL;DR

technical performance

Octopath Traveler delivers stellar PC performance with customizable settings and smooth gameplay, while its Switch version shines with portability and seamless mode transitions—though both platforms face minor glitches and stutters that don’t detract from the overall solid technical experience.

78

TL;DR

Octopath Traveler delivers massive replay value via non-linear storytelling, deep customization, and sprawling content, but repetitive side quests, fragmented narratives, and grind-heavy mechanics may frustrate some, making its appeal split between completionists and casual players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

78

Positive Reviews (80-100)

52%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

48%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The majority of critics highlight Octopath Traveler’s strong replay value through its non-linear structure, diverse character stories, and expansive content. Reviewers like 3DJuegos, Cubed3, and Destructoid emphasize the game’s eight unique character narratives, which allow players to experience different perspectives and explore varied party compositions. GameCrate and GameSpot praise the deep progression systems, job customization, and high-level challenges that encourage experimentation, while DarkStation and Nintendo Life note the efficiency of episodic chapters and portable playability. Additionally, Digitally Downloaded and God is a Geek commend the game’s open-ended design and optional content, such as post-game dungeons and hidden classes, which extend gameplay beyond the main story. These elements collectively create a rich, multifaceted experience that rewards repeated engagement. However, several critics point to limitations that may detract from replayability. IGN and Multiplayer.it criticize the repetitive nature of side quests and optional content, arguing they lack excitement for non-completionists. FANDOM and PC Invasion mention that the game’s fragmented narratives and limited character interactions can make some playthroughs feel disjointed, while GameCritics and 3DJuegos note that grinding mechanics and repetitive gameplay loops may frustrate players over time. Vandal acknowledges the game’s substantial hours but suggests that its challenge-focused optional content might not appeal to all. These critiques highlight that while the game offers extensive content, its design choices can create barriers for some players seeking a more cohesive or varied experience. Overall, the consensus leans positive, with most critics agreeing that Octopath Traveler’s replay value stems from its modular storytelling, customization options, and vast world-building. Cubed3, GameSpot, and Twinfinite emphasize how different character paths and strategies create unique playthroughs, while Hobby Consolas and Press Start Australia highlight the game’s flexibility for exploration and experimentation. However, the mixed reception around narrative cohesion and repetitive elements suggests that replayability depends on individual preferences. Despite these drawbacks, the game’s depth and variety ensure it remains a compelling choice for players seeking long-term engagement, as noted by Vooks and RPG Site, who see its potential for multiple playthroughs through its robust systems and character-driven design.

TL;DR

replay value

Octopath Traveler delivers massive replay value via non-linear storytelling, deep customization, and sprawling content, but repetitive side quests, fragmented narratives, and grind-heavy mechanics may frustrate some, making its appeal split between completionists and casual players.

Overall verdict

Overall Verdict

81

MONSTER

Star Icon

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

81

Positive Reviews (80-100)

86%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

1%

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall reception of Octopath Traveler is overwhelmingly positive, with critics praising its nostalgic charm, engaging combat system, and visual design. Many highlight its successful blend of retro aesthetics with modern gameplay mechanics, calling it a "master class of a JRPG" (Critical Hit) and a "fantastic throwback to a beloved genre" (We Got This Covered). The game’s turn-based battle system is frequently lauded for its depth and variety, with IGN noting its "deep battle system" and GameSpot emphasizing its "engaging combat mechanics." Visuals and music also stand out: Hobby Consolas praised the "stunning visuals" and "exceptional soundtrack," while Nintendo Life called it a "harmonious and immersive experience." The game’s character-driven stories, though fragmented, are seen as a strength by some critics, with Destructoid noting that "the characters are compelling" and GameCritics describing its "rich narrative experience." For many, the game feels like a love letter to classic JRPGs, offering a "nostalgic yet modern feel" (Critical Hit) that resonates with both veterans and newcomers. Despite these strengths, several critics point to notable flaws, particularly in storytelling and pacing. New Game Network criticized the game for its "lacking in engaging storytelling, character development, and world design," while Multiplayer.it described it as a "mixed bag" with "lack of cohesion and direction." Repetitiveness and narrative shortcomings are recurring themes: Gameblog.fr noted the story "becomes repetitive over time," and Slant Magazine pointed to "predictable paths" and "lack of interaction between characters." Some critics also highlighted issues with grinding, pacing, and dungeon design, such as Destructoid’s observation that "dungeon crawls can be bland" and COGconnected mentioning the need for "grinding" and "disjointed narratives." Additionally, voice acting and character interactions faced criticism, with COGconnected noting "flat English voice acting" and Vandal acknowledging "narrative flaws and level design issues." These critiques suggest that while the game excels in many areas, its narrative structure and pacing occasionally hinder the overall experience. The majority of critics agree that Octopath Traveler is a standout entry in the JRPG genre, despite its imperfections. While some flaws are acknowledged, the consensus leans heavily toward appreciation for its ambition and execution. GameSpot called it "worth playing for its high points," and Nintendo Life hailed it as a "must-buy title." Even critics who pointed out narrative issues, like RPG Site, noted that the game "almost feels like a game from an alternate timeline" with its "retro charm and inventive combat." The game’s ability to balance nostalgia with modern sensibilities—such as its "refreshingly modern take" (DarkStation) and "bold risk for an era of cinematic RPGs" (CGMagazine)—has cemented its status as a beloved title. While not without flaws, the overwhelming praise for its gameplay, visuals, and emotional resonance underscores its success as a JRPG that appeals to both longtime fans and new players. As 3DJuegos put it, Octopath Traveler is "a successful homage to 16-bit J-RPGs" that "deserves a place in the genre’s legacy."

TL;DR

Octopath Traveler is a nostalgic JRPG gem praised for its retro visuals, deep combat, and charm, though its fragmented storytelling and pacing flaws slightly tarnish its shine—still, it’s a must-play for fans of the genre.

81

MONSTER

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Reviews

169 reviews found

100

Digitally Downloaded

Nintendo Switch

Jul 12, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Octopath Traveler is a beautiful game that successfully combines retro aesthetics with modern game development. It offers a captivating story, engaging gameplay, and a visually stunning world. The game's ambition and use of sprites are impressive.

Read full review

Full review

93

IGN

Nintendo Switch

Jul 12, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review overall praises Octopath Traveler, stating that the more the reviewer played, the more they loved it. The game is described as a charming homage to 16-bit RPGs with stunning visuals and a deep battle system.

Read full review

Full review

93

GameCrate

Nintendo Switch

Jul 16, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Octopath Traveler delivers a unique and ambitious JRPG experience that successfully blends modern game design practices with a 16-bit RPG format, offering engaging gameplay, compelling storytelling, and stunning visuals.


90

The Sydney Morning Herald

Nintendo Switch

Jul 23, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Octopath Traveler is a meticulous and intoxicating game that combines traditional and innovative elements. It features an addictive battle system, interesting stories, and a beautiful world. It feels like playing a classic Final Fantasy for the first time, but with the gameplay and presentation benefits of an extra 20 years of progress.

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Full review

90

CGMagazine

Nintendo Switch

Jul 19, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes by stating that Octopath Traveler is a bold risk for an era of cinematic RPGs and praises its characters, world, and music. It describes the game as polished and comes close to being perfect for the reviewer's own tastes.

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Full review

90

DarkStation

Nintendo Switch

Jul 23, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Octopath Traveler lovingly embraces old-school RPG conventions while offering its own refreshingly modern take. It is a game that tugs at the heartstrings and fully engages the player.


90

Cubed3

Nintendo Switch

Jul 17, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Octopath Traveler is a fantastic RPG that feels right at home on Nintendo Switch, offering an engrossing and satisfying storytelling experience with minor pacing issues.

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Full review

90

We Got This Covered

Nintendo Switch

Jul 19, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Octopath Traveler is a fantastic throwback to a beloved genre, reintroducing a new generation to classic JRPGs.

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Full review

90

RPGamer

Nintendo Switch

Jun 21, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Octopath Traveler is a hugely enjoyable modern take on traditional turn-based RPGs, with engaging stories, excellent gameplay, beautiful graphics, and a captivating score.

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Full review

90

Critical Hit

Nintendo Switch

Jul 19, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Octopath Traveler is praised as a master class of a JRPG, with its nostalgic yet modern feel, compelling storytelling, fantastic combat, stunning visuals, and excellent music. It is highly recommended for Switch owners.

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