OCTOPATH TRAVELER 0: Eight Paths, One Destination, and a Whole Lot of Town Building

A Symphony of Swords, Spells, and Strategic Swaps

Launch Day Larry

In the latest installment of the Octopath series, OCTOPATH TRAVELER 0, players are invited to embark on a journey that blends exploration, combat, and town-building into a rich tapestry of gameplay. It’s like someone took the best parts of Stardew Valley, added a dash of Final Fantasy tactics, and wrapped it all in a nostalgic HD-2D art style. But does this concoction create a masterpiece or a muddled mess? Let’s dive in.

Gameplay: Conducting an Orchestra of Violence

OCTOPATH TRAVELER 0’s gameplay is a delightful mix of old-school charm and modern mechanics. The combat system is a standout, with its innovative backrow system that allows players to manage an eight-person party. This setup is akin to conducting an “orchestra of violence,” where strategic swaps between the front and back rows keep battles dynamic and engaging. The front row focuses on breaking enemy shields, while the back row takes a breather, recovering HP and SP. It’s a tactical dance that keeps you on your toes.

Character customization is another feather in the game’s cap. The ability to wield all eight classes with a single character offers unprecedented freedom in battle strategy. Plus, the introduction of an original character (OC) adds a personal touch, making the gameplay experience feel uniquely yours. However, the keyboard and mouse controls on PC are about as intuitive as a Rubik’s Cube in the dark, leading some players to consider a refund. And let’s not forget the lack of an autosave feature, which can turn a minor setback into a major frustration.

Graphics: Nostalgia with a Modern Twist

The HD-2D art style of OCTOPATH TRAVELER 0 is a visual treat, evoking memories of SNES classics while incorporating modern enhancements like depth-of-field blur. It’s a style that feels both nostalgic and fresh, making the game a joy to look at. Character artwork is consistently beautiful, adding to the game’s charm and appeal.

While the graphics are generally praised, they don’t quite reach the heights of the second game in the series. Some players have noted issues with texture quality and post-processing, especially at higher resolutions like 4k. And if you’re using dual monitors, beware of the occasional flickering lights—a minor hiccup in an otherwise polished presentation.

Story: A Single Path with Many Twists

The narrative of OCTOPATH TRAVELER 0 marks a significant evolution for the series. Gone are the days of eight disconnected tales; instead, players follow a single protagonist on a classic revenge quest. This shift provides a more cohesive and emotionally impactful story, reminiscent of RPGs like Suikoden. The town-building aspect adds an intriguing layer to the narrative, though balancing revenge with agricultural tasks might feel a bit odd.

While the story starts strong, the middle section tends to drag, testing players’ patience. Some elements are described as “cringe,” and the lack of romance options is noted as a missed opportunity. However, the improved writing and darker themes are a welcome change, providing a satisfying conclusion that ties the narrative threads together.

Final Verdict

OCTOPATH TRAVELER 0 is a fresh and enjoyable addition to the series, capturing the charm of its predecessors while introducing meaningful improvements. The gameplay is engaging, the graphics are a visual delight, and the story offers a more focused and immersive experience. Despite some technical issues and a few narrative missteps, the game is a recommended journey for both new players and series veterans.

Score: 8/10