Bravely Default 2: The ultimate guide

The Nintendo Switch had a pretty good 2020, thanks in part to games like Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity and the juggernaut known as Animal Crossing: New Horizons.

But what about the Nintendo Switch exclusives releasing in 2021?

With Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury and Monster Hunter Rise satisfying Switch owners, Switch faithful might be curious about Bravely Default 2, the latest entry in the Bravely series that's exclusive to the Nintendo Switch. While Bravely Default is a traditional JRPG by most standards, it still manages to be a lot of fun, and is one of the best RPGs on the Nintendo Switch. Here's everything you need to know about Bravely Default 2.

What is Bravely Default 2?

Bravely Default 2 is a roleplaying game and the third game in the Bravely series. While it has 2 in the title, it's actually not a direct sequel to Bravely Default or its sequel Bravely Second. Confusing — I know. It was announced at The Game Awards 2019 and was originally slated for a 2020 release, but was delayed to 2021.

The game takes place on Excillant, a continent divided by five different kingdoms, and follows four adventurers: a sailor named Seth, a princess named Gloria, a scholar named Elvis, and a mercenary named Adelle. In their way stand a group of powerful Asterisks bearers, each possessing a powerful job type.

Like Octopath Traveler before it, the developers wanted to incorporate player feedback during development, so they released a free demo of the game on the eShop on March 26, 2020. Using player feedback they received from that demo, they adjusted the game further and released an updated demo on December 16th, 2020.

What kind of RPG can I expect?

Bravely Default 2 is a turn-based RPG and is fairly old-school in its design. Players traverse the overworld from an overhead view, exploring the terrain and engaging in battles with monsters at will. Exploring cities is similar as well, giving them a diorama feel. The dialogue is also fully voiced in English.

Bravely Default and Bravely Second featured an extensive Job system, and Bravely Default 2 follows suit. There are 24 jobs in Bravely Default 2, each with 15 abilities each, which lead to many opportunities to mix and match skills to match your playstyle.

Two unique options in Bravely Default 2's battle system is the Brave and Default system. While in battle, you can spend Brave Points and string together up to four actions in a single turn. However, using Brave Points will leave you vulnerable for a number of turns equal to the Brave Points spent. You can also use the Default command to store Brave Points to build a combo later.

Will I have to play the previous games to understand the story?

Despite the name, Bravely Default II is not a direct sequel to Bravely Default or Bravely Second. It takes place in a whole new world with brand new characters, so previous experience is not required.

What does the Final Demo cover?

The demo takes place during the first half of Chapter One, starting right after the prologue. There are two dungeons, and three Asterisks bearers make an appearance. The demo has a time limit and can only be played for five hours.

Do I get any bonuses for playing the Final Demo?

You won't be able to transfer your save data over like you could in Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age – Definitive Edition, but playing the demo before the game's release will net you 100 Platinum Coins on your Nintendo Account.

What kind of feedback was incorporated into the Final Demo?

The new Final Demo incorporates much of the feedback received after the release of the first demo in March. This includes changes to difficulty, the addition of turn gauges, the ability to skip battle intro scenes, and button reassignments. A video detailing these changes and more was released on Nintendo's YouTube channel.

How much will it cost?

Bravely Default 2 costs $60. It's a full-priced game offering a full-priced experience!

When will it release?

Bravely Default 2 released on February 26, 2021, exclusively for the Nintendo Switch.