"Octopath Traveler" for Nintendo Switch in the test: This is good for the RPG

I have to admit that I just do not have time to go crazy role-playing games.I actively avoid them RPG. Unless a very big headline is tested because it just has to be tested .But really deep, I was no longer immersed in a role play for a long time.Tooo exhausting, too time consuming and a lifetime who often cries to me, I always have …

memories are awake

But then came this "Octopath Traveler" who fluttered around the house and I gave myself my hand out. the summer hole is also responsible for the fact that I did not want to leave the ontroller of my hands. But above all it is this beautiful retro look and simple game mechanics that fascinate me so much and remind me of old classic games.

Because, in adolescence, I spent a lot of time with RPGs, whether it was turn-based combat or real-time combat systems . Especially the legendary "Secret of Mana" on Super NES, I've been devouring it for weeks in the 90s. And now, there's this exclusive switch title, which especially appeals to my retro heart and makes me think of him.

The Fantastic Eight

We are in the Kingdom of Orsterra, where lush mountainous landscapes and rugged waters dominate the map. As one of eight individual characters, you start the epic story. I start with the classic warrior, or rather with a young woman who is capable of magic, the decision entirely depends on me. Then the adventure begins, where on the way later my other colleagues come to me.

The experiences that can be experienced are also the known classic contents of the genre: past wars and dark forces shook the country, in the dark there is a great danger, we remember the old loves and forgotten characters since a long time. Whatever your story, the game meets all needs.

Beautiful Pixel Graphics

Without a doubt, it is this wonderful retro look that has thrilled from the start. Cute pixel graphics do not just recall the old classics of 16-bits, they are deliberately sought after by Square Enix. The legendary developer of Japan is here bowing to countless masterpieces and knows exactly that he is tackling the map of nostalgia for many players, especially the older ones, and conjures up a smile on their faces.

So you control your heroes and heroes through pretty animated villages, cities, caves and landscapes and enjoy the many details that developers have incorporated into the scenarios.

A word of advice: Do not just browse the areas, but always keep your eyes open and enjoy the little things. Take a closer look at the big map of the world. What's going on there? Impressive.

Including Turbo Boost

The rest is then standard RPG: turn-based battles, which often occur suddenly and then simply end as a . Select actions, use items, launch special attacks, or escape. As the veteran of the genre knows, it is important, especially for larger opponents, to closely observe individual movements and to carry out his actions wisely and with great care.

If the opponents are still too weak at first in the early hours, later, more and more strategic thinking is needed. Fortunately, the game is always right. Especially the new boost function like. During battles, you accumulate boost points, which you can then use to dramatically increase attacks or individual abilities. Then the screen flickers. Otherwise, we talk to the different inhabitants, we solve additional quests, we collect, we buy and sell objects, we prepare and we continue her heroic journey.

That sucks!

Especially with the big bosses, there are always moments of frustration. In general, with the opponents, whether big or small, no indicator of energy can be seen. This often makes the fight very frustrating. So, you can not determine in advance if you really need a complete turn on a next move or you'd better keep a good talk. After that, the capitulum can finally fall or is far from disintegrating in its pixel parts. It's annoying.

There is also a lack of overview when we often explore. So, it is not always clear in villages and cities, where a lot of things are happening and where countless characters are rushing, what exactly is the next goal of the hero, the heroine, to continue the main story. As it can happen that you suddenly find yourself in a slightly boring secondary task that you really do not want to do.

A lot of retro charm

Conclusion: Despite the mentioned criteria, the overall coherent image remains more than 20 hours. Individual fates are told with a lot of sensitivity, cute animations and a lot of retro charm. Despite often dramatic stories, there is always something for laughing muscles. Plus, a beautiful soundtrack and a successful English voice create a fantastic fantasy atmosphere. However, those with RPGs have nothing on the magic hat needs, despite the simple handling here a few hours, until everything slips. But in the end, just say thank you. Because Square Enix carved a title here, that could not be more affectionate and the role-playing desire wakes up again. Thank you!

"Octopath Traveler" is exclusively available for Nintendo Switch and released from the age of 12 years.

Do you still have time for intensive RPGs or do you avoid them? Put your opinions in the comments column!