In a move reflecting its renewed multiplatform approach, Square Enix appears poised to bring its acclaimed Octopath Traveler JRPG series to the remaining major consoles previously missed during the games’ staggered rollouts.
The unique HD-2D style Octopath Traveler titles have seen an unorthodox platform journey so far. The original 2018 game launched as a Nintendo Switch exclusive before later expanding to PC in 2019 and Xbox consoles in 2021. However, it remained absent from PlayStation systems.
Conversely, last year’s Octopath Traveler II released simultaneously on Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and PC – leaving the Xbox crowd unable to experience the sequel.
But recent platform ratings suggests Square Enix aims to finally unify the series across all major consoles. Taiwan’s Digital Game Rating Committee has approved Octopath Traveler for the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5, alongside an Xbox Series X|S rating for Octopath Traveler II.
“This paves the way for both stratospheric JRPG adventures to find their way to new audiences,” said Audrey Spenser, editor-in-chief of RPGFanatic.com. “The exceptional Octopath games pay loving homage to the classic turn-based RPG format while revolutionizing the genre’s visuals and mechanics.”
The anticipated ports would align with Square Enix’s newly reaffirmed commitment to multiplatform development. In a recent statement, the publisher announced it would no longer restrict new game releases to single consoles, eschewing exclusivity deals for a philosophy of making their titles available to all gamers regardless of platform.
Centered around the intertwining stories of eight unique protagonists, the critically-acclaimed Octopath Traveler games blend nostalgic RPG charm with a distinctive visual style that emulates classic 2D pixel art with advanced 3D rendering and lighting effects. The innovative combat system has also been widely praised for its fresh tweaks to the traditional turn-based formula.
Whether playing catch-up or experiencing these modern RPG gems for the first time, console owners across the board can likely expect to embark on the dimensional Octopath adventures soon if Square Enix follows through as indicated. Fans await an official announcement, potentially during Xbox’s upcoming June 9th games showcase should rumors of an imminent Game Pass launch for Octopath Traveler II prove accurate.