Square Enix’s Octopath Traveler is now available on PlayStation, arriving over five years after its initial release. This finally gives PlayStation gamers, who already had access to the sequel, the chance to immerse themselves in the world of Orsterra and see how it all started. This JRPG, which was always celebrated for its unique approach to storytelling and gameplay, presents an adventure that is both nostalgic and innovative, encapsulating the essence of classic RPGs while introducing modern elements that enhance the experience – and it’s lost none of its appeal in the last few years.
At the heart of Octopath Traveler lies its narrative structure, which revolves around eight distinct characters, each with their own storyline and quests. This multi-protagonist approach allows players to experience diverse narratives, which range from the standard noble quests of a knight to plotlines that are more focused on revenge. It’s a more fragmented storytelling method that is certainly engaging, but those used to a more linear delivery might experience this as a drawback, as the individual stories don’t always interweave seamlessly. Nonetheless, the rich backstories and character development ensure that each journey remains engaging and emotionally resonant, and you’ll discover new things on a second playthrough as well.
The gameplay mechanics of Octopath Traveler are both familiar and innovative. The turn-based combat system that is common in traditional RPGs, is enriched with strategic depth through the use of unique character abilities known as Path Actions. These abilities, which range from stealing items to challenging NPCs to duels, add layers of strategy both in and out of combat. The game’s “Break” and “Boost” system, which involves exploiting enemy weaknesses and enhancing your attack power, also provides a satisfying complexity that keeps battles exciting and challenging.
However, this complexity in both narrative and combat can also feel daunting, especially to relative newcomers to the genre. Octopath Traveler demands careful planning and strategic foresight, but for those who relish a tactical challenge the combat system is a rewarding experience that never grows stale. The controls in Octopath Traveler are intuitive and easy to grasp, whether navigating the world map or engaging in complex combat sequences. The user interface is clean and accessible, which helps to manage the game’s extensive menu options and character abilities.
Visually, Octopath Traveler’s artistic design stood out at launch, and still impresses today. The game employs a distinctive “HD-2D” aesthetic that combines retro-styled 2D sprites with beautifully rendered 3D environments. This fusion creates a visually striking world that taps into both nostalgia and a fresh new look for an enchanting visual experience. There is a lot of detail in the environments, which range from forests to bustling towns, making exploration fun to do as well.
The audio design complements the visuals nicely, with an orchestral score that can be both sweeping and intimate, capturing the emotional highs and lows of the characters’ journeys. The sound effects and voice acting further bring the world of Orsterra to life, although it’s a shame that there’s only partial voice acting here.
In conclusion, Octopath Traveler on PlayStation remains a captivating and well-crafted RPG that, with its unique narrative approach, deep combat mechanics, and stunning visuals make it a standout title. Its complexity and fragmented storytelling might not appeal to everyone, but those who embrace these elements will find a rewarding adventure in the world of Orsterra. The game’s late arrival on PlayStation allows a new audience to experience this gem, reaffirming its place as a modern RPG classic.
Score: 8.2/10
Press Play Media