During today’s Nintendo Direct, Square Enix announced that Octopath Traveler II is now in development. A February 24, 2023 release date was also stated.

Square Enix confirmed the game is launching for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and PC via Steam on the same date. In addition, a live broadcast will be held during Tokyo Game Show 2022, featuring the director, producer, and composer. However, an exact time has not yet been provided.

You can view the key art below:

The following key gameplay features are advertised:

Official screenshots are viewable via our gallery below:

The game takes place in the world of Solistia – “a setting comprised of Eastern and Western continents divided by the sea.” An industrial revolution is occurring, with sea navigation on the rise and steam birthing new technological inventions. Although, there are clear divides in the world between those who live luxuriously and those who are agonized day in and day out.

Further, a new combat mechanic is Latent Power, viewable via a gauge that builds while damage is dealt between both sides in combat. A potent ability can be utilized once the indicator is full. Additionally, a day and night cycle is present, with characters’ path actions differing depending on the time of day.

Square Enix has addressed critiques of the first game’s lack of character connection and interaction, stating the following:

“One of the most common requests from players of OCTOPATH TRAVELER was that they wanted to see the different protagonists interact with each other more. Consider that feedback well and truly received!

In OCTOPATH TRAVELER II, there are more interactions between the different members of the group. Additional stories will unfold between the protagonists as their journey progresses, deepening the characters and their relationships.”

The revealed cast is viewable below:

Another new element is “Crossed Paths,” stories featuring two protagonists at once.

Hikari Ku is one of the characters currently detailed. He is the younger prince of Ku, and his tale begins in the desert region of Hinoeuma. Unfortunately, his nation is ceaselessly at war, so he inestimably yearns to stop the blood. “I pray for a world without conflict. Without bloodshed.”

Hikari’s day path action is Challenge, allowing him to duel NPCs in the overworld. Alternatively, his night path action is Bribe, letting him pay currency for information. Further, his Talent comprises learning skills from defeating townspeople in duels. The Latent Power he possesses is Shadow Hold, where darkness is utilized to gain access to special skills.

His voice actors are as follows:

Characters in Hikari’s Tale include the following:

A prince of Ku and Hikari’s older half-brother. He is a cool-headed and powerful warrior who seeks strength for his nation and believes that might makes right. Also known as the “Scarlet Demon of Ku.”

A lowborn warrior and Hikari’s rival. They are both training partners and stalwart allies on the field of battle.

Lord of House Mei, a small clan that has sworn fealty to Ku. She proudly wields the Spear of Levin as she fights side by side with Hikari.

A famous tactician known as the Eagle of Ku. The desert nation has seen many victories under his leadership. He is regrettably fond of drinking and gambling.

Hinoeuma is in southwest Solistia, where its northern and southern rivers allow for significant crop growth, such as wheat and corn. The legend of the conjurer god, Priestess Hinoekagura, lives on here as well. The name of the region is supposedly derived from that conjurer. Countless conflicts have occurred throughout Hinoeuma, primarily for scant water and resources. Nations apparently have brief names here to prevent sand from getting into people’s mouths.

Another character highlighted is the Dancer, Agnea Bristarni. Her Tale begins in the Leaflands, a particularly verdant region. She’s an enthusiastic dreamer who yearns to become a star. “I’m going to become a star and bring smiles to people’s faces. Just like Mama.”

Agnea’s day path action is Allure, letting her compel others to join her, albeit with a chance, and letting them act as battle support. Alternatively, her night path action is Entreat, letting her gain items from individuals if the level is high enough. Further, her Talent is Dance Session, causing a variety of beneficial effects to allies dependent on which allured supporters are present. The Latent Power she possesses is All Together Now, which extends the reach of skills to everyone.

Her voice actresses are as follows:

Characters in Agnea’s Tale include the following:

Agnea’s perceptive younger sister. She calls her big sister “Agnie” and supports her dream with all her heart.

A dancer who attained worldwide fame as a superstar. She practices every single day and takes pride in how far her effort has brought her. Although she appears conceited on the surface, she possesses a kind heart.

Pre-orders for the standard digital edition will begin for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Steam tomorrow. Nintendo Switch pre-orders will begin at an unspecified later date. Moreover, the physical standard edition for consoles is available for pre-order from specific storefronts.

Digital standard edition pre-orders will grant the Travel Provisions DLC listed below. These items will also be obtainable in-game.

A Collector’s Edition for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch is also available for pre-order via the Square Enix store for $179.99. It contains the following contents:

The box art is viewable below:

The trailer is viewable below:

Octopath Traveler recently celebrated its 4-year anniversary with new art.

Octopath Traveler had a very successful launch when it was initially released on the Nintendo Switch. It received critical acclaim, massive sales, a ton of love from veteran and new JRPG fans, and it has even gotten a mobile spin-off game, Octopath Traveler: Champions of the Continent. We published a preview for this mobile title.

This mobile game takes place a few years before the events of Octopath Traveler proper, where the land of Orsterra is ruled by all manner of tyrants seeking to fulfill their selfish desires. Still, some crucial individuals resist these oppressors, Chosen Ones of a Divine Ring, who players will encounter. The title boasts over 64 playable characters at launch, with unique path actions akin to what is useable in Octopath Traveler. Speaking of direct Octopath Traveler carry-overs, its composer, Yasunori Nishiki, has created new compositions.

Octopath Traveler is now available for Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Stadia, and PC via Steam.

Random gamer equally confused by the mainstream and the unusual. Fan of JRPGs, Action, Platformers, Rhythm, and Adventure titles.

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