Or you can choose to “Default” in to a defensive stance and earn Battle Points which you can use to perform those previously mentioned all-out offensive attacks without a penalty. You can opt to go on an all-offensive attack and “Brave” a max of 4 turns per character in hopes of killing the enemy quickly, at the cost of having to take an onslaught of damage while you recharge if unsuccessful. You can attack, use magic or items like normal JRPGs. This can be a breath of fresh air if you have a knack for maxing out every character possible, so less to worry about just speeds up the process. Here, you’re only responsible for leveling up four main characters throughout the entire game. Speaking of which, let’s finally talk about Bravely Default 2, released on the Nintendo Switch.īravely Default 2 is a throwback to classic Final Fantasy, specifically Final Fantasy V. Right now there are only two major installments available, so no need to get ahead of ourselves, but I’m sure the trend will continue. Like Final Fantasy, Bravely Default can be tackled in any order you deem necessary. The first installment, one I’ve yet to play, was released on the Nintendo 3DS, and was an instant success. Visually gorgeous and underwhelming at the same time.Įnter Bravely Default, a franchise that not only goes back to the true JRPG feel, but changes up the battle formula so that it truly cements itself as an entity completely different from Final Fantasy, despite being made from the same company. Regrettably, gamers today adapted an unappreciative lack of patience to fully grasp that style of play. Simply put, it meant “turned based”: you attack in a ordered sequence when your ATB bar is fulfilled. When it was birthed up until a certain installment, the franchise embraced its true JRPG fashion, meaning the players engage in battle using an ATB (active time battle) against the enemy. If you are new to the franchise, you can rest easy knowing you don’t have to worry about playing them in order, because even though the games play similar to each other (aside slight game mechanic differences) the stories and characters are entirely separate from each other. Jokes aside, the fantasy is anything but final, with the franchise soon to release its 16th major installment. Anyone whose has made themselves familiar with the JRPG style has most definitely heard of the company Square Enix, who is responsible for the franchise that has become my unhealthy addiction, Final Fantasy.