In its most recent Direct, Square Enix announced Octopath Traveler II is coming in February 2023. The game is a sequel to Octopath Traveler, which released in July 2018. The game features eight different protagonists, each having a unique set of skills and abilities, who embark on their own individual storylines.
While the first game received praise for its art style and music, even earning nominations in multiple categories at the 2018 Video Game Awards, the game also received a fair amount of criticism. Square Enix is attempting to remedy those mistakes in the sequel. In the initial trailer, multiple new and improved gameplay mechanics were highlighted. Here's why Octopath Traveler II already looks better than its predecessor.
Octopath Traveler II Will Feature More Cutscenes Between Characters
All eight of the original travelers in Octopath Traveler have their own roles and abilities, which coincide with their unique storylines. One of the main critiques of the first game is the minimal interactions between the characters, most of which are done through quick dialogue exchanges. Octopath Traveler II promises more cutscenes between characters, guaranteeing more interaction and exchanges between them and a more well-rounded narrative overall.
Different Path Actions Will Be Available for Day and Night
The first Octopath Traveler gave its characters their own unique path actions, from stealing strangers' items to recruiting them for combat. Octopath Traveler II brings back path actions, and they differ depending on if it's day or night. This will not only allow for more ways to interact with NPCs, but it will also flesh out the characters by giving them more to do outside of combat. While the first game only included eight path actions, the differing path actions during day and night could mean a larger amount for the sequel.
Octopath Traveler II Will Have New Storylines with Interesting Themes
The storylines in Octopath Traveler tackle different themes. Primrose, the dancer, wants revenge for the murder of her father, while Cyrus solves the mystery of a tome that goes missing. Octopath Traveler II features travelers with interesting new plot lines, such as a thief who has an unflinching taste for murder and a scholar who seeks revenge after being a part of an unfair court sentencing. Accompanied by stellar graphics and engaging music, Octopath Traveler II will feature unique storylines never before encountered in the series.
Octopath Traveler was an exciting, thrilling adventure that drew players in with its unique pixillated graphics and riveting music. It kept them coming back for more with its engaging combat. Octopath Traveler II seems to improve on this foundation by adding more cutscenes between characters, different path actions depending on the time of day, and more inventive storylines all around. These changes are exciting and make Octopath Traveler II seem like it will be better than its predecessor.