Bravely Default 2 is just around the corner and will launch on the Nintendo Switch on February 26, 2021. The upcoming game is the sequel to the critically-acclaimed Bravely Default, which was released to the 3DS in 2012, bringing players the classic and nostalgic experience of JRPGs of the past.
Eight years have passed since Bravely Default introduced players to the world of Luxendarc that established the franchise as something to look out for. Now, for players who couldn't wait to get their hands on Bravely Default 2, here are a few games that should keep players occupied while waiting for the highly-anticipated sequel.
RELATED: Updated Bravely Default 2 Demo Available Now
The Fire Emblem franchise had been one of the leading JRPGs on Nintendo consoles since the first game's launch back in 2003. Although the Fire Emblem franchise has seen several iterations in its long history, it without question that Fire Emblem Three Houses is one of the best entries in the franchise. Not only does Fire Emblem Three Houses retain the classic turn-based gameplay that made the franchise popular to players, but it also introduced new mechanics to keep the experience fresh for both veteran players and newcomers alike.
To the uninitiated, Fire Emblem Three Houses is packed with tons of adventure and an amazing story allowing players to choose between three unique paths. The game also comes with a diverse cast of units for players to recruit as the epic political story unfolds. Not to mention, the game also features a romance subplot that will take players on an emotional roller coaster ride.
In July 2018, Square Enix released Octopath Traveler, which soon became the definitive JRPG on the Nintendo Switch. The game features retro-inspired visuals alongside a beautiful soundtrack and a challenging combat system. Octopath Traveler follows the story of eight characters with unique backstories that boosts its replay value. Additionally, each character has a different job class, and players can switch jobs to their heart's content.
Although there are many JRPGs out in the market today, it is without a doubt that the Final Fantasy franchise has always been the top of mind for most players. In its long history, the Final Fantasy franchise has produced countless classic games and spin-offs. Unsurprisingly, many of Final Fantasy's best elements have rubbed off into the Bravely series.
Now, for players looking for a good game to play before Bravely Default 2, Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age is definitely one to check out. To those unfamiliar, Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age is a remaster of Final Fantasy XII, giving the classic game a modern makeover. The game is credited for bringing innovations to the series, such as an open-world environment, a seamless battle system, a controllable camera, and a customizable gambit system that allows players to control the AI of characters in battle.
Earlier this year, Nintendo released Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition for the Switch, which is an enhanced version of the original game that was released in 2010 for the Wii, Wii U, and 3DS. Xenoblade Chronicles received mostly-positive reviews when it came out thanks to its gorgeous setting, expansive open-world environment, and a combat system that stands out from games under the same genre. Additionally, Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition features an epilogue segment that is not available in the original game, allowing players to explore storylines outside the main campaign.
Of course, players who plan to pick up Bravely Default 2 should definitely check out its predecessor when it releases. Although the stories of Bravely Default and Bravely Default 2 are not connected in any way, it is the perfect title to give players an overview of what to expect from the upcoming game. On the other hand, Bravely Second is a follow-up game that continues Bravely Default's story for those who couldn't get enough of the game's immersive story and challenging combat mechanics. Unfortunately, both Bravely Default and Bravely Second are not available on the Nintendo Switch and can only be played on the 3DS.
Bravely Default 2 releases on February 26, 2021, exclusively for the Nintendo Switch.