Octopath Traveler 2 is a worthy successor to the original, incorporating the tactical, turn-based combat, side characters full of life and flavor text, and satisfyingly challenging boss fights. The sequel brings with it a day/night cycle, allowing each traveler to have two sets of abilities, and affecting the flow of battles. Also new to the sequel is the Latent Power gauge, (functioning like a Limit Break or Overdrive for long-time Square Enix fans) allowing for powerful combinations and turning around challenging battles when used correctly. The story includes a number of nods and references to the original without requiring the player to have completed or even played the first game to fully understand the events as they unfold.

That said, RPG fans looking for a richer narrative experience may be disappointed by some of the campy plot-lines of a few travelers. In some cases, the main villain of a character's arc is apparent from the outset, leaving the dramatic reveal wholly dissatisfying. However, this gamer found callbacks to such tales as The Seven Samurai, The Count of Monte Cristo, and other classic tales to be endearing enough for the game to be forgiven. The game remains beautiful and stylistic, and mechanically satisfying to "play with the flavors" of adjusting your party. A must-have for those that enjoy older RPGs with a modern touch.