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MONSTER

Octopath Traveler II

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Octopath Traveler II
Item: Octopath Traveler II
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresFantasy, Adventure, RPG, Top-Down Perspective, Anime and JRPG, Strategy, Single Player

AvailableFeb 24, 2023

PlatformPC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Xbox One

DeveloperAcquire

Overview

This game is a brand-new entry in the Octopath Traveler series. It takes the series’ HD-2D graphics, a fusion of retro pixel art and 3DCG, to even greater heights. In the world of Solistia, eight new travelers venture forth into an exciting new era. Where will you go? What will you do? Whose tale will you bring to life? Every path is yours to take. Embark on an adventure all your own.

Elsewhere

8.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Octopath Traveler II impresses with character-driven narratives and improved interactions, particularly through its 'Crossed Paths' chapters, which enhance the story's cohesiveness. Critics praise the individual tales for their emotional depth and mature themes. However, many highlight a significant flaw: the lack of cohesion among the eight character arcs leads to a fragmented experience, with simplistic storytelling that undercuts potential emotional impact. While the game showcases intriguing stories, it ultimately misses the mark on delivering a unified narrative, leaving players wanting more.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

27%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the story of Octopath Traveler II reveals a mixture of appreciation for its character-driven narratives and the execution of its storytelling mechanics. Critics like ZTGD and TouchArcade highlight the game's improvement in character interactions and the introduction of 'Crossed Paths' chapters, which enhance the cohesiveness of the narrative. Many reviewers, including Gamersky and Game Informer, note that the individual stories are well-crafted, with engaging backstories and emotional stakes, contributing to a richer gameplay experience. The game has been praised for its diverse themes, with some characters tackling serious issues, as mentioned by IGN Adria and Everyeye.it, which adds a layer of maturity that resonates with players. However, the critiques also point out significant shortcomings in the game's narrative structure. A recurring theme among reviewers like IGN Japan and Twinfinite is the lack of cohesion among the eight character stories, which often feel isolated from one another. Critics such as Game Revolution and Digital Trends express concerns that while the individual arcs are compelling, the overall narrative lacks depth and interconnectedness, leading to a fragmented experience. The simplistic nature of the storytelling and reliance on clichés, as noted by Pocket-lint and Hobby Consolas, detracts from the potential emotional impact of the characters' journeys. The consensus among critics is that while Octopath Traveler II makes strides in character development and storytelling, it still struggles with cohesion and depth. Many reviews, including those from GameSpot and Meristation, acknowledge that the game offers a collection of intriguing stories but often fails to weave them into a singular, impactful narrative. The improvements in character interactions and the addition of shared chapters are recognized as positive steps forward, yet the overall execution leaves some players wanting more. Ultimately, Octopath Traveler II presents a blend of captivating individual tales and missed opportunities for a more unified storytelling experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Octopath Traveler II impresses with its engaging turn-based combat and strategic depth, praised for its tactical mechanics and diverse job system that encourages experimentation. However, criticisms of clunky party management, excessive grinding, and some redundant features hold it back. Overall, it's a solid evolution from the original, delivering enjoyable gameplay despite a few flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

75%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Octopath Traveler II has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, with many praising its engaging turn-based combat system and strategic depth. Reviewers like Checkpoint Gaming and IGN France highlighted the tactical nature of the combat, emphasizing the importance of exploiting enemy weaknesses through mechanics such as the Break and Boost systems. Critics like Pocket Tactics and TheGamer appreciated the introduction of Latent Powers, which add an exciting layer to battles, allowing for powerful attacks that enhance the overall combat experience. The diverse job system, which enables players to mix and match character abilities, was also well-received, with Game Revolution and Press Start Australia noting that it encourages experimentation and strategic planning. Overall, the combat system is described as both enjoyable and rewarding, with a good balance of challenge and accessibility. However, despite the praise, several critics pointed out notable flaws in the gameplay. Wccftech criticized the clumsy party management and the length of battles, suggesting that they can become tedious. Checkpoint Gaming echoed this sentiment by mentioning the excessive grinding required to level up characters, which can detract from the overall experience. Additionally, Everyeye.it and Game Revolution noted that while the core gameplay remains largely unchanged from the original, some features, like the variety of Path Actions, feel limited and redundant. Critics like Eurogamer Germany also mentioned the time-consuming nature of grinding, which may frustrate players seeking a more streamlined experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Octopath Traveler II builds upon its predecessor with a solid and enjoyable gameplay experience, despite some lingering issues. While the turn-based combat and strategic elements are well-executed and engaging, the need for grinding and some clunky mechanics can detract from the enjoyment for certain players. Critics like IGN Adria and Gamersky noted that the game retains many systems from the first installment, but with welcome tweaks that make the combat feel fresh. Ultimately, the majority of reviewers agree that the gameplay is a strong aspect of Octopath Traveler II, with many finding it to be a worthwhile evolution of the original's formula.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Octopath Traveler II impresses with its stunning HD-2D art style, blending retro pixel art and modern 3D effects to create a visually captivating experience. Critics praise its intricate details and immersive environments, although some note minor drawbacks like occasional color issues and performance slowdowns on PS5. Overall, it surpasses its predecessor in graphics, affirming its status as a standout title in the RPG genre despite a few technical hiccups.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

91%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Octopath Traveler II have garnered significant praise from critics, with many highlighting the stunning HD-2D art style that successfully marries retro pixel art with modern 3D effects. Reviewers such as LevelUp and God is a Geek emphasized the game's visual appeal, noting its intricate details in environments, character animations, and lighting effects. Critics like RPGamer and Digital Trends appreciated the attention to detail, particularly in character animations and the immersive day-night cycle that enhances exploration. The vibrant cities and diverse locales, as noted by Nintenderos and SpazioGames, contribute to a visually rich experience that captivates players and encourages them to delve deeper into the expansive world. However, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks in the visual presentation. IGN Adria expressed that the 2D-HD art style might feel somewhat worn out due to the influx of similar games, while Game Rant noted that the graphics, although slightly enhanced, remain largely unchanged from the original. RPGamer mentioned occasional issues with colors washing out, and NintendoWorldReport highlighted wonky lighting issues that detracted from the overall experience. Additionally, The Games Machine reported slowdowns on the PS5 during gameplay, indicating that technical performance could occasionally hinder the visual experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority agreeing that Octopath Traveler II excels in its graphics and visual design. Critics like Gaming Nexus and Jeuxvideo.com praised the game for surpassing its predecessor in visual quality, while others noted that the HD-2D style continues to impress and evolve. Despite some minor criticisms regarding technical performance and occasional visual inconsistencies, the game's ability to create a stunning and immersive world has resonated with players and critics alike, solidifying its place as a visually appealing title in the RPG genre.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Octopath Traveler II boasts an acclaimed soundtrack by Yasunori Nishiki, enhancing gameplay with diverse orchestral compositions and immersive sound design. Critics praise its emotional depth and energetic voice acting, although some note it may not match the iconic status of the original's score. Overall, the music is a standout feature that elevates the game's atmosphere and narrative, making it a memorable experience for players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

96%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Octopath Traveler II have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising the exceptional compositions by Yasunori Nishiki. Reviewers from various platforms, such as Jeuxvideo.com and Eurogamer Germany, highlighted how the musical score enhances the immersive experience of the game, particularly during pivotal moments like boss battles. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and NME emphasized the impact of the sound design, noting the energetic voice lines and satisfying audio cues that contribute to the overall atmosphere. The orchestral soundtrack has been described as fantastic and diverse, with elements ranging from classical melodies to jazzy battle music, as noted by Pocket-lint and Gamereactor UK. Many reviewers, including Vgames, even went so far as to call the soundtrack one of the best in recent years, with some tracks evoking strong emotional responses. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, a few critics pointed out that the soundtrack might not reach the same iconic status as its predecessor. NintendoWorldReport mentioned that while the music is good, it lacks the memorable qualities of the original Octopath Traveler. Additionally, some reviews noted that while the voice acting is generally strong, there are instances where certain performances may not resonate as well as others, as indicated by We Got This Covered. This slight inconsistency in voice acting quality was echoed by a few other critics, suggesting that while the overall sound design is commendable, there are areas for improvement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Octopath Traveler II features a remarkable sound design and music score that significantly enhances the gaming experience. The majority of reviewers, including those from IGN Japan and Digital Trends, agree that the compositions are not only beautiful but also integral to the narrative and gameplay, creating a rich and engaging atmosphere. The combination of a diverse soundtrack, quality voice acting, and thoughtful sound design has left a lasting impression on players, making it a standout aspect of the game. As noted by multiple critics, including Malditos Nerds and Digital Chumps, the music is not just a backdrop but a vital element that elevates the emotional depth and enjoyment of Octopath Traveler II.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Octopath Traveler II boasts exceptional voice acting, enhancing immersion and character depth, with praise from critics for its English and Japanese options. Despite minor audio quality issues and occasional over-the-top performances, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, marking a significant improvement over its predecessor and elevating the game's narrative experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Octopath Traveler II has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers, such as BaziCenter and Worth Playing, praised the voice acting for its finesse and ability to enhance player immersion, effectively conveying the distinct personalities of the characters. The inclusion of both English and Japanese voice options, highlighted by GamePro Germany and Nintenderos, allows players to choose their preferred experience, further enriching the narrative. Critics like Push Square and Hey Poor Player noted that the voice performances add layers to the dialogue, making the storytelling more engaging. The overall sentiment is that the voice acting is not only well-executed but also contributes significantly to the immersive experience of the game. However, some critiques have surfaced regarding the voice acting quality, particularly in specific performances. For instance, GamingTrend pointed out issues with audio quality for one character, while Pocket-lint mentioned that some performances could be over-the-top, potentially detracting from the overall experience. Additionally, Shacknews noted that while some voice acting was praised, there were instances of inconsistency in delivery. This suggests that, despite the generally high standard, there are moments where the voice acting may not meet the expectations set by the majority of the cast. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Octopath Traveler II features strong voice acting that significantly enhances the game's narrative and character development. While there are minor criticisms regarding a few performances and audio quality, the majority of reviews, including those from IGN Adria and God is a Geek, affirm that the voice acting is a standout element of the game. The expanded voice lines and well-cast actors contribute to a richer storytelling experience, making it a notable improvement over its predecessor, as mentioned by GamesBeat and TheSixthAxis.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

TL;DR: Octopath Traveler II shines on PS5 and PC with smooth performance, fast loading, and stunning visuals, earning high praise from critics. However, the Nintendo Switch version struggles with lag and visual compromises, despite being better optimized than its predecessor. Overall, while performance is strong across platforms, there's still room for improvement, especially on Switch.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

67%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Octopath Traveler II has generally received positive feedback across various platforms, particularly on the PlayStation 5 and PC. Critics such as Digital Chumps and Hey Poor Player praised the PS5 version for its smooth performance, fast loading times, and effective use of the DualSense controller's haptic feedback. GamePro Germany echoed this sentiment, noting the absence of bugs and performance issues. On the PC front, reviewers like PC Invasion and ZTGD highlighted the game's flawless frame rate and stability, indicating a well-optimized experience. Vgames also pointed out that both the PC and PS versions showcase impressive visual effects at 60 frames per second, further enhancing the game's appeal. However, there are some concerns regarding performance, particularly on the Nintendo Switch. Critics like Cubed3 and Forbes pointed out instances of lag and glitches that can detract from the overall experience. While some reviewers, such as PlaySense and Nintenderos, noted that the game runs smoothly at a stable 30 frames per second, they also acknowledged occasional frame rate dips and less sharp visuals compared to other platforms. Additionally, SpazioGames mentioned frequent loading times in villages, which may disrupt exploration. On the PS5, some critics like MGG and PSX Brasil reported minor slowdowns and occasional frame rate drops, suggesting that while the performance is generally strong, there are still areas for improvement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Octopath Traveler II performs admirably on both the PS5 and PC, with minor issues noted on the PS5 and a generally stable experience on PC. The Nintendo Switch version, while still enjoyable and portable, does face more significant technical challenges, including performance dips and visual compromises. Despite these drawbacks, many critics agree that the game has made strides in optimization compared to its predecessor, with RPG Site noting that the Switch version is in a much better state than the original. This indicates a commendable effort by the developers to enhance the technical performance across all platforms, though there remains room for further refinement, especially on the Switch.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Octopath Traveler II boasts strong replay value with its expansive content and engaging mechanics, offering 60-80 hours of gameplay filled with exploration and diverse character storylines. Critics commend its rewarding secrets and depth, making it a standout for genre fans. However, issues like grinding, repetitive battles, clichéd narratives, and limited character connections could dampen the experience for some players. Overall, it's a solid JRPG entry, rich in exploration and character development, but not without flaws that might hinder multiple playthroughs.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

70%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

30%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Octopath Traveler II is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the game's extensive content and engaging mechanics. Reviewers like Destructoid and Gamersky highlight the significant amount of gameplay, with main storylines taking upwards of 60-80 hours to complete, complemented by numerous side quests and hidden items that enhance replayability. Critics such as GGRecon and Hey Poor Player emphasize the game's encouragement of exploration and the rewarding nature of uncovering secrets, which adds depth to the experience. The diverse cast of characters and their unique storylines, as mentioned by Games.cz and Push Square, further contribute to the game's allure, making it a worthwhile endeavor for fans of the genre. However, there are notable criticisms that temper the overall enthusiasm for replay value. GamePro Germany points out the frustrating need for grinding and the repetitive nature of standard battles, which can detract from the enjoyment of replaying the game. Additionally, some critics, like Pocket-lint, mention the clichéd nature of the narratives, which might limit replay value for certain players. The lack of connection between party members, as noted by Inverse, is also seen as a missed opportunity that could have enhanced the overall experience. Furthermore, PSX Brasil raises concerns about limited customization and equipment systems, which could affect how players engage with the game on subsequent playthroughs. In summary, while Octopath Traveler II is celebrated for its rich content and replayability, critics are divided on certain aspects that may hinder the experience for some players. The consensus suggests that the game offers a wealth of opportunities for exploration and character development, as noted by Worth Playing and The XboxHub, but the repetitive elements and narrative clichés could deter some from fully embracing multiple playthroughs. Overall, the game is regarded as a strong entry in the JRPG genre, appealing particularly to those who appreciate its depth and variety, despite some criticisms that could affect individual experiences.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

90%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

10%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Octopath Traveler II is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its captivating visuals, engaging characters, and refined gameplay mechanics. Reviewers like MGG highlight the game’s charming art style and fantastic soundtrack, while LevelUp and Gamersky commend its challenging yet rewarding combat system. The game is noted for retaining the beautiful HD-2D graphics that have become a hallmark of the series, with critics such as Digitally Downloaded and Nintenderos calling it a masterpiece that enhances the original's strengths. Many reviewers also appreciate the improvements in storytelling and character development, with Game Informer and GameSpot noting that the sequel feels more confident in its narrative approach. However, despite the many accolades, several critics pointed out notable flaws that detract from the overall experience. Issues with narrative structure and character integration were frequently mentioned, with Eurogamer Germany and IGN Italia specifically noting the storytelling's lack of cohesion and the disconnect between individual character arcs. Critics like Video Chums and CGMagazine echoed these sentiments, highlighting a lack of direction in the overarching story. Additionally, some reviewers mentioned cumbersome gameplay mechanics and technical limitations, particularly on the Nintendo Switch, which hindered the experience for a few players, as noted by PlaySense and Everyeye.it. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Octopath Traveler II is a commendable sequel that successfully builds upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, offering a rich and visually stunning JRPG experience. While it does have its share of narrative and structural flaws, the majority of reviewers, including IGN Japan and Vandal, recommend it highly for fans of the genre. The game is seen as a significant improvement overall, with many critics expressing excitement for its future installments and reaffirming its place as a cherished title within the JRPG community.

TL;DR

Octopath Traveler II is widely praised for its stunning visuals, engaging characters, and refined gameplay, with critics calling it a worthy sequel that enhances the original. However, it suffers from narrative cohesion issues and some cumbersome mechanics, especially on the Nintendo Switch. Overall, it’s highly recommended for JRPG fans, marking a significant improvement and a promising future for the franchise.

MONSTER

Reviews

159 reviews found

100

Dexerto

Nintendo Switch

Feb 17, 2023

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

Octopath Traveler 2 is highly recommended for fans of retro-stylized JRPGs and offers a pinnacle experience in the genre.

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100

GGRecon

PlayStation 5

Mar 9, 2023

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

Octopath Traveler 2 is a monumental achievement in the genre, with a captivating story, engaging gameplay, and stunning visuals. It is highly recommended for fans of turn-based RPGs.

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100

RPGamer

Nintendo Switch

Mar 10, 2023

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

Octopath Traveler II is a highly enjoyable and polished RPG that will satisfy turn-based fans and those who appreciate deep lore and customizable job systems.

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100

God is a Geek

Nintendo Switch

Feb 17, 2023

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

Octopath Traveler II is a spectacular sequel that surpasses the first game in every conceivable way. It is highly recommended for RPG fans.

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100

Digitally Downloaded

Nintendo Switch

Feb 20, 2023

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

Octopath Traveler II excels in its characters, worldbuilding, combat system, and stunning visuals. It improves upon the original game and offers a more dynamic and engaging experience. It is a must-play for fans of the genre.

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Impulsegamer

Nintendo Switch

Mar 15, 2023

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

Octopath Traveler II improves upon every aspect of its predecessor and is highly recommended for JRPG fans.

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Nintenderos

Nintendo Switch

Feb 17, 2023

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

Octopath Traveler II is a masterpiece that addresses the flaws of its predecessor and stands as one of the best RPGs on the Nintendo Switch.

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PC Invasion

Mar 10, 2023

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

Octopath Traveler 2 is praised as one of the best-made games on the market today, with improvements over the original and a complete and polished experience. The only disappointment mentioned is the handling of the Crossed Paths storylines.

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Atomix

Nintendo Switch

Feb 17, 2023

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

Octopath Traveler II is a fantastic JRPG that will appeal to fans of the genre and those who appreciate Square Enix's legacy in the gaming industry.

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RPG Fan

PlayStation 5

Feb 17, 2023

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

Octopath Traveler II is a superior game overall, with improvements in storytelling, gameplay, and visuals.