OCTOPATH TRAVELER™
" Visually stunning RPG with innovative combat and diverse stories but slow pacing and repetitive grind "
OCTOPATH TRAVELER™ Review
Octopath Traveler is a visually stunning JRPG that combines classic turn-based combat with modern HD-2D pixel art, delivering a nostalgic yet fresh experience. The game features eight distinct protagonists, each with unique stories and abilities, allowing players to explore the world of Orsterra in a nonlinear fashion. The combat system, highlighted by the innovative Break and Boost mechanics, offers strategic depth and customization through job classes. The soundtrack by Yasunori Nishiki enhances the emotional and atmospheric experience.
However, the narrative structure can feel fragmented, as the characters’ stories lack meaningful interaction, resulting in a somewhat disjointed overall plot. Some players find the pacing slow and the combat repetitive, especially during prolonged boss fights and grinding phases. The game’s map navigation and side quests can also be cumbersome. Despite these flaws, Octopath Traveler is praised for its art, music, and gameplay, making it a worthwhile experience, especially for JRPG enthusiasts and those who appreciate pixel-art aesthetics.
Highlights
Players praise Octopath Traveler for its beautiful HD-2D pixel art style and atmospheric, orchestral soundtrack by Yasunori Nishiki. The turn-based combat system with Break and Boost mechanics is engaging and strategic, encouraging thoughtful party customization. The game offers eight unique protagonists with distinct stories and abilities, enriching the exploration of diverse, colorful biomes. The job system adds depth to character progression, and the world-building through side quests and NPC interactions provides additional layers of immersion.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include the disjointed narrative structure due to minimal interaction between the eight protagonists, which some find reduces story cohesion. The pacing can be slow, with repetitive combat and lengthy boss battles that may feel tedious. Some players find the character balance uneven, and side quests vague or boring. Navigation and map systems are sometimes cumbersome, and the lack of a speed-up feature in combat is noted. Additionally, the game may feel formulaic and grind-heavy, which can hinder sustained engagement.
Pros
- • The HD-2D art style is visually breathtaking and nostalgic.
- • Innovative Break and Boost combat mechanics add strategic depth.
- • Eight distinct protagonists provide diverse storylines and playstyles.
- • Orchestral soundtrack by Yasunori Nishiki enhances immersion.
- • Job system allows for deep character customization and synergy.
- • Exploration of colorful, varied biomes enriches world-building.
- • Side quests and Path Actions add layers of gameplay depth.
Cons
- • Narrative feels fragmented due to lack of character interaction.
- • Repetitive combat and grinding can become tedious over time.
- • Boss battles sometimes have excessive HP and drag on.
- • Character balance is uneven, making some protagonists less viable.
- • Side quests are often vague, uninteresting, or poorly explained.
- • Navigation and map systems can be cumbersome and unintuitive.
- • No speed-up option in combat slows down gameplay pacing.
Rating Criteria
Eight travelers. Eight adventures. Eight roles to play. Embark on an epic journey across the vast and wondrous world of Orsterra and discover the captivating stories of each of the eight travelers.
