Octopath Traveler 0: A New Chapter, But Is It Worth the Wait?
CNET's Take: A fresh start for the series, but will it capture the magic of its predecessors?
The Octopath Traveler franchise is back with a prequel, Octopath Traveler 0, and it's a bold move. Square Enix is expanding the universe, but at the cost of character-driven storytelling. The game introduces a new town-building mechanic and a single silent protagonist, which might disappoint fans of the original series.
The Silent Hero Dilemma
In the previous games, players had the freedom to choose from eight unique characters, each with their own classes and backstories. This choice was a key part of the appeal, as players could follow multiple storylines and witness the heroes' journeys intertwine. However, Octopath Traveler 0 takes a different approach, forcing players to stick with a single silent protagonist. This change feels like a step back, as the original games' strength lay in their diverse cast of characters.
The game begins with a familiar setup: a hero waking up before a festival, unaware of the tragedy that awaits. After a fire destroys their hometown, Wishvale, the hero embarks on a quest for revenge and rebuilding. While the protagonist is customizable, allowing players to choose their look and class, the lack of multiple storylines feels like a missed opportunity.
Town-Building and Battle Mechanics
Octopath Traveler 0 introduces a town-building mechanic, reminiscent of games like Breath of Fire and Suikoden. Players can rebuild Wishvale, gathering resources like wood, stone, and cloth from the world map. This adds a new layer of exploration and strategy, but it might not appeal to all players. Additionally, the game features eight-player battles, a new addition to the series, which could bring an exciting twist to the turn-based combat.
A Work in Progress?
Despite the new features, the game's lack of memorable characters is a concern. The earlier games' strength lay in their compelling narratives and diverse cast. While Octopath Traveler 0 doesn't have substantial flaws yet, it feels like a traditional RPG without the signature charm of its predecessors. Will the story and gameplay evolve to match the series' original magic? Only time will tell.
Octopath Traveler 0 is set to release on December 4th for multiple platforms, priced at $50. Will it live up to the hype? Stay tuned for our full review!
