Square Enix has announced that it’s releasing native Switch 2 versions of its critically-acclaimed HD-2D RPG, Octopath Traveler, along with its sequel, Octopath Traveler II, on the very appropriate date of October 1, 2026. Unless you’re in Japan, where they’re already available now.
These versions will apparently come with “improved” resolution and framerate, and will be available both physically and digitally. Though, frustratingly, there is no upgrade path here for owners of the original Switch version of either game, and no save carry over from the old versions to the new. Instead, should you already own them on Switch and desire the slightly nicer-looking editions, you’ll have to fork out AUD $85-90 each (or as a slightly more reasonable $108 bundle) and start them from scratch. Not ideal!
Anyway, here’s an announcement trailer:
My tip: Grab the regular Switch versions while they’re deeply discounted as a bundle on the eShop, if you’re tied to playing them on a Nintendo device. Otherwise, the same bundle is also on sale right now on the PlayStation Store and Steam, and the games can look quite lovely on those platforms.
Born into the world of video games through SEGA, and in particular Sonic the Hedgehog, Kieron’s gaming tastes now consist of the latest, shiny AAA thing, an indie darling or two, and an embarrassing number of hours of Balatro.