OCTOPATH TRAVELER II (First Thoughts) - Happy Console Gamer

Octopath Traveler II review/first thoughts is an upcoming role-playing video game developed by Square Enix and Acquire and published by Square Enix. It is a sequel to Octopath Traveler (2018), and the third entry in the series after the prequel mobile game Octopath Traveler: Champions of the Continent (2020), though it features a new cast of characters and setting separate from prior games. It is scheduled for a worldwide release on February 24, 2023 for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5 and Windows; it is the first Octopath game released on PlayStation platforms.
Like the show? Support the show! Patreon us! / happyconsolegamer
SUBSCRIBE! and add me on Twitter! / hcgshow
Facebook us!
/ 354792211336650
/ happyconsolegamer
Join Johnny Millenium The Happy Console Gamer as he discusses new video games and reviews forgotten games that not many people know about but should!
#octopathtraveler2

[@MichaelSapiro]

Last year my family and I played this game twice. My kids (7 and 10) are nuts for Octopath traveler. We even bought the official guide book, art books, etc… Were waiting until we get our physical copy to start the game together as a family. I think my wife is even going to make a cake and decorate the house. It’s games like these that create great memories for our entire family.

[@xabiermadariagasanchez2060]

Im jealous of your kids

[@grey_wulf]

@MichaelSaprio This comment is magnificently wholesome. Sharing experiences like this is super awesome.

[@latristessdurera8763]

🫠

[@DrMapleGreens]

CUTEEEEEEE

[@Daniikar]

Um imagine letting your kids play primrose story 🤣! Mad parenting haha

[@whoisthis99995]

I played octopath 1 in early 2021. I was ill and off work because I was going through a tough treatment course. I couldn't do much other than just rest. I'd come home around noon from my daily treatment and pick up my switch and grind through octopath 1, really helped me at that time! This series will always have a special meaning to me!

[@BrD4GOD]

That's awesome man. Hopefully you're doing better! Breath of The Wild was that one for me when I was sick. I beat it on my bed at like 3am feeling sick but I loved it!!!

[@Catastrophic-hk3mh]

I'm about to go through radiation on of all things my feet. I loved the first one and im downloading 2 now

[@erikhendrickson59]

I'm sure this is at least partially nostalgia, but turn-based RPGs have always had a sort-of calming, zen-like effect for me. You get to play the game at your own pace and really take in all the audio/visual delight.

[@whoisthis99995]

@@erikhendrickson59 Yeah I feel the same way! It was a brain treatment, so really helped me feel zen when my brain felt fried!

[@whoisthis99995]

@@BrD4GOD I am doing much better! BotW is so relaxing too, great choice haha

[@mightymitch6472]

Hands down one of my favorite musical scores in a game. Absolutely love the first game. Can’t wait to crack open the second.

[@ofon2000]

I listened to the OST...sounds nowhere near as good as the 1st

[@thechongalong292]

@@ofon2000 my worst fear

[@ofon2000]

@@thechongalong292 unfortunate...You can look it up yourself on youtube right now if curious

[@degapalgamer3772]

@@thechongalong292 music is really good imo

[@epiclight858]

​@Ofon nah it sounds better. They made use of different instruments and we haven't even heard half the soundtrack yet.

[@carlstevenwilletts]

What I love about the soundtrack to Octopath Traveler is that almost every track (I am not counting the final few that are about 30 seconds long) is a wonderful piece of music in its own right. Had this soundtrack been by Nobuo Uematsu, Joe Hisaishi (Studio Ghibli movies) or even John Williams, the amount of praise it has received would have increased tenfold. The music is as essential to the game as John Williams' music was to Star Wars, and Superman.

[@Atlessa]

"The music is as essential to the game as John Williams' music was to Star Wars" This. 'Nuff said.

[@markh5572]

I loved the first octopath. I completely agree about the music it's ten out of ten for me. The main theme may be my all time favourite main theme. I've enjoyed the demo for part 2. Can't wait to pick up the full game.

[@wylelias]

Octopath was one my all time favorites put in over 100 hours. Looking forward to number 2.

[@Aging.gamer83]

I loved the first one so much. Pretty close to a perfect retro style turn based RPG for me. I am so ready for the next one!

[@aceone2156]

Yea it was an instant classic. Definitely a 9.5/10 at least!

[@Aging.gamer83]

@@aceone2156 100% agree!

[@johnobrien9147]

Agreed too :)

[@robballer]

I started with the warrior story line and wow it's so good. It's a story you have seen before in terms of warrior becoming king and family issues but im sure there will be a twist of some kind. Graphics are amazing and writing is really good, first time playing a Octopath game and really looking forward to it.

[@AlohaGamester]

I spent my 3 hour demo playhrough on Osvalds story. The music art and story segment was great. I can't wait to pick up my copy this friday!

[@Arcadelife1]

Just in case the info is useful - the 3 hour limit is for the character, not the whole demo, so you can play all 8 characters for 3 hours each if you want to.

[@AlohaGamester]

@@Arcadelife1 I did know that but appreciate you sharing. Chances are someone will benefit from reading it !

[@chrisisjoking]

I absolutely love Octopath 1 and can't wait to dive into the Octopath 2! That first soundtrack was * chef's kiss * and from the few tracks I've heard so far (Partitio's in particular), it sounds like it's gonna be another game where I put the controller down from time to time to just sit and listen.

[@daryl4841]

One of the best combat systems ever in a jrpg. The skills are so well designed. The art style, music, and the writing are also top notch. I expect this to be my favorite game released this year.

[@emomc9557]

The first game had some LONG fights tho, good game, but man I spent way too much time on single battles

[@wujekstalin1]

It's actually shit. The whole barrier and weakness system is a fail. Finding weaknesses is just pointless chore that you need to do and after that youre forced to use certain skills and spells to get the maximum value or youre missing out. Nothing pisses me off like artificial constraints like that and I couldnt finish the game

[@xljx8304]

@@wujekstalin1 im sorry you feel that way but i like the gameplay as its promote versatility and not 1 man army on other jrpgs.. what i dont like is the frequency of encounter rate unless you equip.a support skill.

[@BnomicaL]

Looks like a Troll...😅

[@chrilz1498]

I love these, Johnny--thanks for always being so thoughtful and detailed with your first thoughts videos

[@alexterieur8813]

Finished engage yesterday so now my plate is ready for Octopath! God i love gaming

[@dariusq8894]

Octopath Traveler absolutely took me by surprise and became one of my favorite games of this generation. It had such an impact on me that I imported merch from Japan. My favorite pieces include all the released soundtracks (original + arranged CDs) and even a music box which plays the main theme. I pre-ordered the LE Octopath Traveler II direct from Square Enix as soon as it was announced. I haven't played the demo yet, but since the full game is coming out at the end of the week I guess I don't need to.

[@lordrikudouzero9119]

Great video, I’m low key obsessed w/the first Octopath music and all. I’m expecting the collectors edition this wk, so excited that I actually managed to nab it!

[@awest3749]

Was looking for something to watch and this notification popped up at the perfect time. I was a HUGE fan of Triangle Strategy and also enjoyed Live-a-Live. The artstyle on both are of course phenomenal. I never played the first Octopath and haven't checked out the demo so don't really know what to expect other than a more traditional RPG with various stories, a bopping soundtrack and a gorgeous art style. I'm definitely looking forward to it (perfect game to release on my birthday 😍)

[@WarMonkeyPlays]

The original is is straight up like an old school Final Fantasy, though the story(ies) is a lot more broken up and compartmentalized. Won't go into detail to avoid spoilers, but you do see hints of some through lines that tie most of the characters together, with a final chapter that's somewhat hidden that really answers why things are happening. It looked amazing, good music, and just enough of a twist on combat to make it feel fresh. So if all that sounds appealing, have at it!

[@puffydoh]

Oh wow, you should really give the first one a try. The game reminded me how great turned-based games can be when down right. It's got so many things going for it. You wouldn't be disappointed.

[@Food4Dogs]

"you can practically go into every single building that has a door". YES!!!! That's such a bugbear with me in many modern RPGs. Octopath truly let's us explore, fathom the world. Love it.

[@epiclight858]

Picking this up for the soundtrack!!

[@realtayo42]

YES! SO excited for this one! I've been waiting to hear your thoughts on it

[@artgarba3108]

Really enjoy the content. Very solid info and reviews

[@victorrojas8836]

Almost at 300k 🎉

[@WinrarChickenDinrar]

Loving these consistent uploads!

[@LRrealest]

I'm playing the demo right now. So far I've went through the Warrior, Apacathary, and Scholar routes. The first two stories seem like they're going to be really good. I'm liking the additions to the gameplay. Day 1 buy for sure.

[@happymago1]

I wasted all the three hours on the warrior🥲

[@llrus6818]

@@happymago1 well you can just start a new save file and play through other characters story

[@XenosbioZ]

Most memorable thing about Octopath for me was the Scrutinize and Inquire Ability to learn all about the npcs and world. I remember descriptions of like 56 year old npcs being “an elderly man” and thinking noooo 50 isn’t elderly yet!

[@Antidepressiva1980]

TBF, back then in that time 50 was elderly .

[@lawrenceragnarok1186]

​@@Antidepressiva1980no it wasn't lol. People were tougher and had to work harder for longer and stayed way fitter inter their older ages. Don't just say silly things

[@Antidepressiva1980]

I meant in the game. We are talking about a game and not real life. What are you up to ?@@lawrenceragnarok1186

[@johnnyscifi]

I'm glad to hear you enjoy it. I'll be picking it up!!

[@shallbeknown]

Oh man I have to get part 1 now!

[@MrUricruz]

waiting for my special edition to come!

[@pazky12]

Thanks for the review!

[@BnomicaL]

Octopath Traveler was Incredible. Played through Octopath 2 demo as the Hunter, Loved it. Pre ordered at Best Buy to get the special Steel Book Edition...

[@starknightlumina8680]

This is one of my most anticipated games of the year. Counting down the days to release. Played the demo over and over making new files to try all the characters. Already like all of them more than the first game's cast. The game can't come soon enough.

[@JGRICH61]

I’ve now got a level 75 party and wrapping up a few final story lines. Minor spoiler alert, when you get the Ship and can explore traverse the world on that cute little diorama world map WOW game changer

[@sharebear421]

Do your party members actually interact and feel like a party in this one?

[@kevinconnor3187]

I wasnt a fan of RPG’s, until I played this game. I put in 800 hours for original one, my eyes got blurry from the grinding, but a great game. The “Break” explosion effects Rock! I also have the Octopath Traveler CD.

[@Gambenoful]

I'm still mad I missed out on the 1st games vinyl. Great music.

[@BoomstickGaming]

It's been a minute since I played something new with random encounters. Annoying or manageable?

[@IsraelLlerena]

Trust me I am extremely excited. I keep looking up my tracking updates for the preorder. Cant wait for the 24th! 2 More days!

[@IsraelLlerena]

Uhhhhhhhhh it’s not coming until the 27th. Dang why do I have to be into physical releases.

[@woolybear]

Absolutely loved the first one, can't wait to play the second early!

[@Naterkix]

I really dig the HD2D (or whatever they called it) graphical style this, the original, Triangle Strategy and the Live-A-Live remake have used. It's a great way to be both "modern" and "retro" and each new game using it seems to look better than the last as experience is gained using the engine.

[@Mintcar923]

I love the style.. That said it doesn’t fit every series.. I think the more serious themed titles like this & Triangle Strategy.. I can’t quite see Dragon Quest done this way without it’s longtime colorful cel shading.. So in essence while I’m a fan they shouldn’t overdo it and make every classical rpg in this vein

[@Checo82886]

As a 40 yr old gamer/husband/father of 2 young girls, nothing on the internet gets me happier than another edition of the Happy Console Gamer! Thanks brother.

[@JH-vb1wo]

I remember getting octopath traveler 1 back when it first came out as my 2nd switch game and I didn't know anything about it except it was a rpg and to this day it's one of the very few games that I still think about often and want to keep going back to. The beautiful graphics, music, characters everything really left a impression on me. I need to go back to complete every single side quest that I have left and now I'm ready for octopath 2. I hope this sells well so we can maybe get a 3rd or spiritual successor one day

[@stephendrown3808]

Beyond excited!!! The demo was brilliant

[@personavisceration371]

Insightful as always. And while we all know you're Canadian, the P in psuedo is still silent up there 😉

[@PlusUltraAdrian]

Going to be spending my Saturday off playing this.

[@EtienneCK]

I played the demo, and should receive my ps4 copy next monday! I think it's awesome so far; I like what they added to the battle mechanic and the dialogues are a lot more interesting. I started with Throné and I love her story. Can't wait to carry on the journey! I also prefer playing with japanese voices.

[@kerrydustin3996]

The first game was such a pleasant experience. The combat, story, and music were all so well crafted. So with this release, I preordered it from my local video game store. Gotta support local shops!

[@TrueLadyEvilChan]

Gotta be honest, I disagree about the story being well crafted, but I agree with the other two.

[@adamhobbs8775]

Hey sir! Love your videos. Just curious, have you ever considered reviewing or previewing the Legend of Heroes: Trails of series of RPG's?

[@Oatmeal_Ghost]

I really hope to play the first one this year! I’ve owned it for a long time now, but the backlog is so big…

[@KhmerGuy1988]

It’s crazy, as I’ve gotten older with less money and time I stray away from retro gaming a bit to catch up on life. I love watching all your videos my man and glad to see all you og’s still around.

[@havanowoncheese]

I played the demo for Octopath 2 on my PC. They really have refined this HD 2d style. The demo visuals are mindblowing.

[@valeheart]

I started with Temenos. I love him! He’s so funny and witty!

[@matthewsan78]

Definitely looking forward to checking out the demo on PS4. Even more excited after seeing this! I didn't play the first one as I'm PlayStation only, but really excited to check this one out.

[@mrNobody9999]

Just started Octopath Traveler 1 again. Hopefully, I can finish it this go round. I'm definitely picking up part 2 when it comes out.

[@anthonyjohnson9088]

My collector's edition can't get here soon enough!!!!!

[@MARK111174]

I plan on getting this, still have not done the first one

[@deltaprime3509]

I am curious if how the story telling is done is it like the previous game where it’s multiple character stories that don’t interact with each other?

[@jaykennedy8418]

“Apokethary” “puh-sudo” Is mispronunciation a recurring bit on this channel? Maybe keep the audio in English for your next few games

[@crimsoncrow7613]

I like your Videos you are as nostalgic as i am when it comes to Rpg's , im 43 and i played most Rpg's that came out on each console, i miss the good old times of snes and ps1 and Saturn the most, These times were the best for Rpg's.

[@yambu007]

Yooo what's up, dope little vid

[@MrYuki2000]

Can’t wait until tomorrow night! I picked up all 8 characters in the demo and excited!

[@matthubbard2607]

One more day i can do this. The wait is killing me....

[@VideoGameVictims]

Octopath Traveler was my favorite RPG since the SNES and PS1 days. I really loved it that much. Can't wait to dig into the sequel.

[@roarshach13]

Um....what? It came out in 2018 what are you talking about?

[@VideoGameVictims]

@@roarshach13 I mean it's my favorite RPG from the time period post SNES / PS1 era to today.

[@lordrikudouzero9119]

Same!!!

[@benthehobo5833]

You should play more games then dude.

[@VideoGameVictims]

@@benthehobo5833 got any recommendations?

[@MikeMethot256]

I gotta admit the absolute highlight of this game for me is the music ! Especially osvalds theme

[@ShortArmBBQ]

Just got the 1st one a month ago. Love it so far

[@EDTheOneable]

Man this is a good year for gaming.

[@conundrum2u]

l like how the classic graphics style is now seen as its own art form. I grew up during the crazy console changes as things transitioned to 3d graphics and this form of jrpg is honestly one of the best. The story is front stage and that's where it should have always been.

[@tazmanceltic]

The music in these games are absolutely fantastic have to say that. Loved the first 1 will definitely tackle 2 when I get the backlog down.

[@Aelrandir]

I'm really looking forward to this one. I decided to get it on Switch since I wanted the physical copy to go beside the first game, but I was really close to getting it on Steam after trying the demo there and seeing just how much more gorgeous it looked and having that high framerate. I wish they would have implemented some sort of cross save. If they had I would have bought it on both PC and Switch.

[@KalarMar]

I picked Scholar n Theif in the demo. Gonna be fun to continue the adventure this Friday.

[@Demogorgon7007]

Yes I’m excited!

[@progrockrulz]

I haven’t even finished the first one!! Would it make sense to just play one of the stories and call it finishing the game?

[@Jeremy_LK]

Will there by any video about Hogwart's Legacy? It would be great to hear what you have to say about the game.

[@golfvdubb]

I am very excited for this release. Looks sharper, perspective changes, characters feel more alive, latent abilities, etc. Can’t wait.

[@natural8677]

The lighting looks incredible in this sequel

[@WOWimTim]

Can’t wait to get my copy. First game was amazing.

[@1DangerMouse1]

I'm looking forward to playing it. I had issues with the stories in the first one but it didn't bother me as much as some people. Glad to see this first thoughts from you. I wish they would have made it so that when you take another person in your party, their level is closer to yours. It can be distracting knowing you have to grind a lot just to get a person up to the right level.

[@foodini666]

Do u need to play the first one before playing this one? Great review.

[@Bolwijnable]

Can't wait to play this game. The music is so epic and helps it feel so emotional. Can't get it out of my head.

[@VorpalBender]

The music in Octopath Traveler is top notch. I still listen to the music from the first one too!

[@Juice2Fifty]

Loved the first one and can’t wait to jump into this one. I played through Hikari’s story and am fully engaged and can’t wait to see how it unfolds! Oh, and I still listen to the battle themes of the first game while I’m in the gym 😉

[@NintendoCade]

I loved the original Octopath Traveler and this is one that I am looking to playing. Great hearing your thoughts on the game Johnny.

[@enigmazero8624]

I pre-ordered my copy months ago and I’m so excited to play it, but I’m currently playing FF Tactics A2 for the first time and I’m afraid if I put it down and start Octopath 2, I won’t go back and finish it. Do any of you ever get in situations like this?

[@jahcreator]

They get put on hold. Currently I have games going for three houses and triangle strategy. Mostly because I was craving something that wasn't turn based for a change. I have every intention on finishing them though but this game will be first. Hard to juggle multiple jrpgs but just have a plan and work through them apace. A chapter here and there then switch to something else

[@SuperHighTechGamer]

Missed out of the first game, looking forward to this one. Reminds me of Ultima 4 Avatar with the different scenarios.

[@craiggerhardstein7305]

playing through the 1st one right now on the switch

[@MrMOTUMan]

Loved OP on Switch, so I can’t wait to pick up my pre-order for OPII on PS5.

[@jeffreytatara3707]

There any graphical differences between Playstation and Switch versions?

[@ragnarokcaesar]

Personally I subscribed to this channel as soon as I heard Octopath's OST playing on the background. It's fantastic

[@jrpggamer93]

I'm so pumped I never played the first bc I still haven't got a switch. So I can't wait to PLAY IT!!!

[@sharuko24]

OPT ost still is a treat to hear :^) Just like how I always love going back to Chrono Cross ost.

[@brady9592]

One of those franchises I’m just really glad exists

[@james441]

It’s great man

[@Zaiyou]

Can't believe that was 2018 gotta finish triangle strategy, b4 it even got to merchant was thinking about torneko great recommendation u gave on DQ4 😉. I'm still waiting for Rectangle fantasy gonna be 🔥🔥🔥

[@Steveo_j8]

First thing I noticed from the demo was how amazing the soundtrack and graphics were especially on PS5

[@williammarinho21]

In which brings me to the question, why did you remove the Xenosaga music from your videos??????

[@danielcharney9657]

I have the switch oled and I really love RPGS because that’s all I play and story base games and fighting games too.

[@VlVlsectVI]

It looks amazing. I ordered the Collector's Edition but it'll be years before I get around to playing it.

[@Baram1950]

The first was great. There were some repetitive and disjointed elements, but overall I really enjoyed it. And the Galdera fight was truly memorable. I'm picking this one up for sure.

[@13AxelRoxas]

I enjoyed the first game, but I never actually finished. I did two prologue stories. The first one I did was Osvald, and I had enough time to get to the merchant and do his prologue, so when I get the game, I'll at least have 2 characters. I also played in japanese and being a One Piece fan and Jojo fan it was very hard not to hear Zoro and Dio's voice actors.

[@Jahalang82]

I played the demo using Osvald and just kept playing him even through the release but sometimes wished I started with Hikari because I loved learning new skills from duels

[@andyreichert499]

I have to admit that I'm getting a nostalgic kick from seeing DJ Boy in the background. It took me a couple of attempts to get into the original Octopath Traveler, but once I did I adored it. That was just last spring, and I have to admit I kinda want to play it again. Instead I preordered 2 and I'm very much looking forward to seeing how they can improve things. I haven't played the demo just because I want to dive all the way in and not see any limits. I had good luck starting with the scholar last time, so I think I'll try the same this time.

[@more_UO_memes]

Played the demo on PS5 and loved it. Also the 60 fps. I didn’t expect a smoother frame rate to enhance even such “slow paced” games for me. Will definitively pick it up on Sony's console and eventually play the first one on Series X as long as it is available on Gamepass.

[@melmacianmage]

Honestly the Octopath soundtrack is in my top 5 game OST of all time!