Bravely Default Remastered: A Classic RPG Reborn on Switch 2

The beloved RPG, Bravely Default Remastered, has made its way to the Switch 2, bringing its unique turn-based combat and intricate job system to a new audience. Originally released on the Nintendo 3DS,this remaster enhances the classic experience with updated visuals and additional features,making it a must-play for both longtime fans and newcomers alike. The game plunges players into the magical Empire of Luxendarc, where they must restore balance to the world.

Story and Setting

The adventure begins with Tiz Arrioror, a shepherd boy who survives the destruction of his village. He encounters Agnès, a priestess of Wind, who reveals that the world’s crystals, the sources of Luxendarc’s energy, are being consumed by a dark fog. Together, they embark on a quest to uncover the cause of this chaos and restore the crystals to their former glory.

Bravely Default draws inspiration from older Final Fantasy games, offering a vibrant world filled with memorable characters. While its colorful, chibi-like visuals might suggest a children’s game, the narrative explores themes relevant to modern society. Even though the second act experiences a slight lull, the story rebounds in Act 3, culminating in a satisfying conclusion.

did You Know? The original Bravely Default sold over 1 million copies worldwide, solidifying its place as a cult classic in the RPG genre.

The Innovative Battle System

At the heart of Bravely Default lies its innovative battle system, built around the “Brave & Default” mechanic. Characters accumulate Brave Points (BP) each turn, which can be used to perform actions. choosing the “Default” command allows characters to save BP, enabling them to execute multiple actions in subsequent turns, up to a maximum of four. Conversely, the “Brave” command allows characters to act in advance but requires them to “pay back” the BP later, leaving them vulnerable if they run out. This system introduces a strategic layer, where the risk and reward are carefully balanced. According to a 2023 study by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), strategic depth is a key factor in RPG player engagement ESA.

This system adds a layer of strategic depth, where the payoff hinges on the risk you’re willing to take. Eliminating enemies in one turn is possible by using the Brave command for all characters. During boss battles, this can be risky due to their larger health pools.It can be helpful to have your White Mage default a few times, allowing them to heal the entire party together in an emergency.

The Job System Returns

Bravely Default also revives the classic Job system from Final Fantasy. Characters start as Freelancers but can unlock various jobs (classes) throughout the game, allowing players to customize their party. Whether it’s casting destructive spells as a Black Mage, engaging in melee combat as a Monk, or summoning mystical creatures as a summoner, the possibilities are vast.

The job system is enhanced by allowing characters to incorporate skill sets from other classes, leading to unique combinations. A Dark Knight with White Magic or a Pirate with Ninja skills are just a few examples. To facilitate experimentation, players can adjust the frequency of random encounters, increasing XP gains. Furthermore, players can “send” their most powerful attacks or skills to other Bravely Default players online, offering assistance during battles. This feature is similar to the Jomsvikings in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, which can be hired for River Raids.

Pro Tip: Experiment with different job combinations to discover powerful synergies and create a party that suits your playstyle.

Visual and Auditory Enhancements

Exploring the world of Bravely Default is a visual treat, with colorful and quirky locations that have a watercolor or hand-painted aesthetic. While the 3D effect of the original Nintendo 3DS version is absent,the remaster benefits from sharper 1080p visuals and HDR support. The soundtrack is equally notable, ranging from dreamy music box tunes to adventurous themes and uplifting rock ballads. However, the voice acting can be inconsistent, with some actors occasionally overacting.

New Mini-Games

This remaster introduces two mini-games accessible from the main menu, both utilizing the Switch 2’s mouse controls. “Rhythm Catch” is a rhythm game where players catch symbols to the beat of the music. “Ringabel’s Panic Cruise” involves controlling an airship while managing various tasks assigned by the crew. while thes mini-games are simple additions, they offer a fun diversion from the main adventure.

Bravely Default Series Timeline