Bravely Default 2

Bravely Default 2 is a role-playing video game developed by Claytechworks and published by Square Enix for the Nintendo Switch platform. Released in 2021, it is a successor to Bravely Default and Bravely Second, although it features a new story and characters, making it accessible to newcomers as well as fans of the series. The game is set in the fantastical continent of Excillant, divided into five distinct kingdoms. Players embark on a quest with a group of heroes to restore balance to the world by retrieving lost Crystals of the elements.

Gameplay

Bravely Default 2 employs a turn-based combat system that is a hallmark of traditional JRPGs (Japanese Role-Playing Games). The game's unique "Brave and Default" system allows players to either store turns for future use (Default) or use multiple actions in a single turn at the cost of future turns (Brave). This system requires strategic thinking and planning to overcome challenges.

Players can customize their party through the use of "Asterisks," which confer specific jobs or classes to characters, such as White Mage, Black Mage, Vanguard, and more. Each job has its own set of abilities and can be leveled up to unlock new skills. The game encourages experimentation with different job combinations to find the most effective strategies for battle.

Plot

The story follows a young sailor named Seth, who is washed ashore in the continent of Excillant after a storm. He encounters three other characters: Gloria, a princess who seeks to recover her kingdom's stolen Crystals; Elvis, a scholar looking to decipher a mysterious book; and Adelle, a mercenary hired to protect Elvis. Together, they embark on a journey to retrieve the Crystals and confront the forces threatening the world.

Development

Development of Bravely Default 2 was announced in 2019, with Claytechworks returning as the developer and Revo composing the soundtrack. The game's art style continues the series' tradition of blending realistic 3D backgrounds with character designs that evoke classic 2D JRPGs. Prior to its release, a demo was made available, allowing players to provide feedback that was incorporated into the final game.

Reception

Upon release, Bravely Default 2 received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its challenging gameplay, strategic depth, and the innovative use of the Brave and Default system. However, some criticism was directed at its story and character development. The game has been recognized for its contribution to the JRPG genre and its faithful adherence to the elements that fans appreciate.

See Also

• Final Fantasy series
• Octopath Traveler
• JRPGs (Japanese Role-Playing Games)

External Links

• [Official Bravely Default 2 Website](https://www.square-enix-games.com/bravelydefault2/)