Product Info

Platform

Switch 2, Switch, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, Xbox One, PC

Publisher

Square Enix

Developer

Square Enix

Series

Octopath Traveler

Genre

RPG

Players

1

File Size (Minimum)

6.1 GB

Release Date (NA)

Feb 24, 2023

Purchase From

eShop

PSN Store

Microsoft Store

Steam

Home » Octopath Traveler II for Nintendo Switch 2 (Review)

Octopath Traveler II for the Nintendo Switch 2 is an improved version of the original Nintendo Switch game, a purrtastic experience for on-the-go. However, it may not provide enough reasons for those who already own the game to purchase it again.

A Port Worthy to Travel With

Like Octopath Traveler for the Nintendo Switch 2, Octopath Traveler II also received a new port for the latest Nintendo console. The game does not include any new content, but it does feature an improved resolution and frame rate. While no official documentation was revealed yet by Square Enix while writing this review, expect the game to deliver at least 1080p and more than 30 frames per second (fps).

Like many of the Nintendo Switch 2 ports from Square Enix, there isn’t a save data transfer nor the ability to upgrade your original Nintendo Switch version. Both the Switch and Switch 2 are retailing at the same price of $59.99 USD. The option to purchase the bundle of both Octopath Traveler and Octopath Traveler II for $74.99 USD still makes it difficult if you’ve already owned both titles. If you own the series on a non-Nintendo platform, your visual improvements are similar or better, like 4K at 60 fps on the PS5. If you’re looking to play the best version for traveling or have not played the game yet, then the Switch 2 version is the best option among all the available options.

With improved features the first installment lacked, such as battle speeds, Octopath Traveler II already feels like a much improved RPG. Party members can now wield two different weapons, players can choose between day or night cycles, and they can enjoy additional features. Octopath Traveler II feels much improved than the original. We’re also not noticing those funky filter colors the original version had on all its platforms. Octopath Traveler 0 utilized many of the new features introduced in the second title.

A New Cycle Awaits

Octopath Traveler II introduces a new set of eight travelers in a new world called Solistia and backstories that add more character development than the first game. Additionally, there are more areas to travel, such as across waters in a boat. It’s a much more developed game to explore.

The second installment also adds day and night cycles. When choosing a cycle to explore, you can adjust the activities that occur. For example, monsters are stronger at night, and some quests are available in certain cycles of the day. Visuals also change depending on the day, and your traveler’s skills can adjust too. Throné, who is classified as a thief, will be able to steal from NPCs during the day. At night, she can ambush NPCs, depending on their level, to access paths or chests that are blocked. It certainly adds more gameplay depth to utilize different events. This system is reminiscent of the cycle format introduced in Pokémon Gold and Pokémon Silver, which allowed for specific activities and the appearances of certain Pokémon.

The HD-2D visuals carry over with their gorgeous sprites and 3D environments. Visual effects make the world of Solistia feel more dynamic, and the depth of field feels more improved than in the first title. The visuals have significantly improved on the Nintendo Switch 2, particularly in handheld mode.

Yasunori Nishiki returns to compose Octopath Traveler II, and it’s just as stellar as the first entry. There’s more variety and a higher number of tracks, such as jazz scores and new arrangements of the familiar tunes from the first Octopath Traveler. There are enough differences that it feels like a whole new album rather than just the same tracks carried over.

The Final Cycle

Octopath Traveler II for the Nintendo Switch 2 delivers a purrtastic HD-2D RPG with improved visuals and performance, making it an excellent way to experience the adventure, especially in handheld mode. However, the lack of new content, an upgrade option, or save data transfer makes it a difficult purchase for existing Switch owners. If you haven’t played Octopath Traveler II yet, this is an excellent way to experience one of the best HD-2D RPGs.

An Nintendo Switch 2 code was provided by the publisher for this review. Octopath Traveler II for the Nintendo Switch 2 launches on October 1, 2026. The game is available now for the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. Fans can visit the game’s official website for more information.