Bravely Default II

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79%

Recommendation: Play It

Median Score: 80/100

Total Reviews: 53

QuickFacts

Critics Consensus: Bravely Default II is a traditional JRPG whose formulaic structure can feel slightly tedious, but innovative combat mechanics and a wide variety of in-game enemies make it a joy to play.

Play It

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Critic Reviews: 53

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Game Info

A new world, a new story, and all-new Heroes of Light await in an original RPG experience arriving on the Nintendo Switch system in 2020! This successor to the original Bravely Default game comes from the team that brought you the Bravely series and Octopath Traveler, and features music from Revo (Sound Horizon/Linked Horizon), acclaimed composer of the Bravely Default soundtrack.

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Detailed Information

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Critic Reviews

Reviews

High Score - 100/100

Low Score - 40/100

Bronze TIER

51% of scored reviews fell within the range of 80 to 86 / 100

Critics Consensus

# Reviews: 53

Bravely Default II is a traditional JRPG whose formulaic structure can feel slightly tedious, but innovative combat mechanics and a wide variety of in-game enemies make it a joy to play.

Seth G. Macy (IGN)

8/10

“Bravely Default 2 is a long, familiar JRPG journey with excellent customizable combat and beautiful backdrops that pass the time as you work through its extended stretches of grinding.”

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Martin Robinson (Eurogamer)

Recommended

“Square Enix’s line of retro JRPGs continues with an all-new world and tale for Bravely Default, though some of the old problems persist.”

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Steve Watts (GameSpot)

6/10

“Bravely Default 2 brings the throwback RPG series to Nintendo Switch, but the loss of modern quality-of-life features make this a decidedly grindy experience.”

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**Read all 53 critic reviews on the desktop version of VSG.

Read the Reviews (53 total)

Outlet	Author	Score	Date	Quote	Read
Areajugones	David Cruz	9 / 10	02-25-2021	Bravely Default 2 is almost perfect; it's just troubled in a story with ups and downs that contains too much superfluous dialogue. The rest of the elements, including a perfectly translated text, outstanding: a careful gameplay to the millimeter and a pricey graphics. JRPG is a genre that suits Nintendo Switch‎	Read review
Atomix	Sebastian Quiroz	90 / 100	02-25-2021	Bravely Default II is a great way to get into RPGs. A combat system and a spectacular soundtrack accompany a story that no fan of the genre should miss.	Read review
AusGamers	Steve Farrelly	6 / 10	03-02-2021	As you level up and progress, new jobs open up, but it's not a tacked-on system, choosing jobs changes the game's makeup and that of your party, so simply unlocking a new job doesn't necessarily mean you assign someone to it.	Read review
Cerealkillerz	Julian Bieder	8.2 / 10	02-25-2021	Bravely Default II excels in bringing back classic JRPGs with superb turnbased gameplay, unfortunately it also revives a cliched stoy about crystals and steep difficulty spikes, which make "grinding" an unavoidable feature of the game.	Read review
CGMagazine	Chris De Hoog	9 / 10	02-25-2021	At the end of the day, Bravely Default 2 is a classic JRPG with coats of new paint.	Read review
Checkpoint Gaming	Lise Leitner	8 / 10	02-26-2021	With innovative combat mechanics and an enormous variety of in-game enemies, Bravely Default II offers up an engaging strategy experience that’ll hook seasoned strategy fans. It also boasts gorgeous visuals, with hand-drawn backdrops and panoramas popping off the screen, making the world delightful to explore.	Read review
COGconnected	Michael Chow	83 / 100	02-25-2021	Quote not yet available	Read review
Critical Hit	Brad Lang	8 / 10	02-25-2021	Bravely Default 2 is occasionally weighed down by its poor pacing and sometimes sluggish gameplay, but it still offers a sprawling and expansive JRPG that sticks closely to the roots of the genre while offering up a few unique twists.	Read review
Cubed3	Lilly K.	9 / 10	02-25-2021	The wait for Bravely Default II has been long and hard, but now that it is finally here it convinces with high quality graphics, storytelling, gameplay and sound. While this title is not without flaws, these are minor compared to the overall excellence of this title. A joy to play at home on the big screen or on the go, this title is a great addition to any turn-based RPG fan's library.	Read review
Daily Mirror	Eugene Sowah	4 / 5 stars	03-01-2021	Bravely Default II to its core is what fans should expect from a well devised JRPG, with the depth of customisation and a stellar battle system combining for an enthralling experience. Only to be matched by its engaging script and blissful music making this a must have for Nintendo Switch owners. Saying that newcomers to the series or JRPGs in general may find Bravely Default II a bit too difficult and demanding, especially with the bosses dishing out defeats left, right and centre.	Read review
DASHGAMER.com	Dan Rizzo	9 / 10	03-04-2021	Bravely Default II is quintessential role-playing magic. A wonderous campaign, fuelled with passion and desire. Heart and charm elongate this lengthy adventure worth your attention.	Read review
Destructoid	Chris Carter	8 / 10	02-25-2021	That's pretty much Bravely Default II in a neat little package. It's more Bravely Default, which is more classic JRPG formula, distilled for a modern era. It's not going to reinvent RPGs as we know them, but this series still has life in it yet.	Read review
Digital Trends	Josh Brown	3 / 5 stars	03-02-2021	The reason to question Bravely Default 2‘s existence boils down to its inability to think for itself. The Brave and Default combat system strikes a near-perfect balance between two rival battle mechanics that have struggled to coexist over the decades, but that’s about the extent of the game’s individuality.	Read review
Digitally Downloaded	Matt Sainsbury	5 / 5 stars	02-26-2021	In many ways, it's a highly metafictional thesis that explores what people love about JRPGs, and what is genuinely important to the genre. In doing so the game has become this wonderfully nuanced, beautiful, entertaining and emotive experience, and in my book, that makes it a masterpiece.	Read review
Eurogamer	Martin Robinson	Recommended	02-25-2021	Square Enix's line of retro JRPGs continues with an all-new world and tale for Bravely Default, though some of the old problems persist.	Read review
Everyeye.it	Antonello Bello	8.5 / 10	02-25-2021	We had reservations about Bravely Default II, which in the transition from Nintendo 3DS to Switch we were not sure would preserve the magic of the originals, but the final code managed to dispel most of our fears. Although the product is very derivative, as the newborn Claytechworks studio and Team Asano have not deviated much from the canons of the saga, neither as regards the classic plot and for the brand's historic combat system, square Enix's new proposal has nonetheless proved to be a solid and engaging JRPG.	Read review
Game Informer	Daniel Tack	8 / 10	02-25-2021	If you enjoy the RPGs of eras long past, Bravely Default II captures some satisfying whimsy and nostalgia, but its formulaic structure can feel tedious	Read review
Gameblog	Yann Bernard	9 / 10	02-25-2021	Bravely Default II couldn't be through with the past, as shown by the JRPG's tradtional elements which inevitably, if not deliberately arouse nostalgia. While its wider, undulating world invites exploration, this episode seriously lays everything down, from the decidedly abrupt narrative to the extremely demanding strategical battles, exploiting the risk rewarding system and jobs' combination skills at full extent. Such kinds of class, whether wisely revised or exquisitely original, are worth it. Hence Tomoya Asano signs a deeply moving fairy tale intended for the genre's erudites, a beautiful proof of bravery.	Read review
GameCrate	Angelo D'Argenio	8 / 10	03-01-2021	Bravely Default 2 brings us back to an older era of simpler RPGs with deep systems and shallow stories. If that sounds like a feature, not a bug, then this is the RPG for you.	Read review
GameMAG	Unknown	7 / 10	02-25-2021	It's hard to call Bravely Default II a masterpiece, but it's not trying to be one. Yet still it's a solid game, full of classic JRPG charm. And perhaps it's a great reminder of why we love the genre in the first place.	Read review
GamePro	Hannes Rossow	79 / 100	02-25-2021	Bravely Default 2 is a pretty JRPG with a strong combat system, but in terms of story, the switch adventure is a little too short.	Read review
GameSpew	Richard Seagrave	7 / 10	02-25-2021	If you’re a fan of old-fashioned RPGs and aren’t turned off by the idea of grinding for hours on end in order to overcome the latest big bad, chances are you’ll quickly become besotted by Bravely Default II.	Read review
GameSpot	Steve Watts	6 / 10	02-25-2021	Bravely Default 2 brings the throwback RPG series to Nintendo Switch, but the loss of modern quality-of-life features make this a decidedly grindy experience.	Read review
GamesRadar+	Austin Wood	5 / 5 stars	02-25-2021	Bravely Default 2 is one of the best games to point to when people ask what makes JRPGs fun.	Read review
GameXplain	GameXplain	Recommended	02-25-2021	Video Review	Read review
GamingBolt	Pramath	8 / 10	03-04-2021	Bravely Default II is a well made, mechanically expansive, JRPG.	Read review
God is a Geek	Chris White	8 / 10	02-25-2021	Bravely Default II is punishing at times, but if you're willing to spend time grinding for XP, there's plenty to reward the most patient of players. The Jobs are a definite highlight, and the Brave/Default battle mechanic is a unique and fantastic feature.	Read review
GRYOnline.pl	Adam Zechenter	7.5 / 10	02-25-2021	Bravely Default 2	Read review
Hobby Consolas	José David Muñoz	88 / 100	02-25-2021	Bravely Default II it's a solid game, perfect for new players, but also newcomers. It has certain flaws because the story follow up a cliché and it's again all again the crystals, but you never get tired of playing because combat, characters and jobs will keep you entertainment in an artistic and precious world.	Read review
IGN	Seth G. Macy	8 / 10	02-25-2021	Bravely Default 2 is a long, familiar JRPG journey with excellent customizable combat and beautiful backdrops that pass the time as you work through its extended stretches of grinding.	Read review
IGN Italy	Fabio Canonico	7.5 / 10	02-25-2021	The third chapter in the Bravely saga fails to improve the main issues of the previous games: while Bravely Default II offers an astounding depth for its job system, that requires players to really understand its mechanisms, the game lacks all of those elements that make a JRPG really impactful, from a meaningful story to a deep characterization.	Read review
Just Push Start	Mark Fajardo	4 / 5 stars	03-04-2021	Ultimately, Bravely Default II wants to put a fresh coat of paint on traditional ideas. In so many ways Bravely Default II accomplishes this, be it familiar overworlds or robust lands to explore, it's just that these concepts cut both ways. There isn't much that makes it stand out next to the games it's trying to mimic. As a result, those who love JRPGs will likely also love this, though those looking for a bit more will likely be underwhelmed.	Read review
Metro GameCentral	Unknown	6 / 10	02-25-2021	A disappointing waste of a fun combat system and an impressive graphics engine, with ugly artwork and unremarkable storytelling that expends all its goodwill disappointingly quickly.	Read review
Nintendo Enthusiast	John Friscia	8.5 / 10	02-25-2021	In Bravely Default II, you either break the battle system with some beautiful strategy, or it breaks you. And that's the thrill of it. Taking charge of massive customization options to build a party that can uniquely demolish the varied bosses is incredibly satisfying and never gets old. When you couple that stellar action with a phenomenal soundtrack, it becomes possible to forgive the game's uninspired story and technical hiccups. And while I really wish Square Enix were not struggling so much to tell a great story lately, Bravely Default II is still an utterly addicting RPG and an excellent addition to the Nintendo Switch library.	Read review
Nintendo Life	Mitch Vogel	8 / 10	02-25-2021	As if it was ever in doubt, Square Enix has demonstrated once again that it understands exactly what ingredients are necessary to make a great RPG. The interesting, risk-based combat is supported by a diverse class system and a well-told story, which all combine to make for an experience that can be tough to put down. That said, one can't help but feel a consistent sense of 'been there, done that' with Bravely Default II; Square certainly could've pushed the envelope just a little more with this entry. That aside, you really can't go wrong with Bravely Default II. This is a well-crafted and expertly-made RPG that is easily worth your time and money; we'd highly recommend that fans and newcomers alike look into picking this up.	Read review
Noisy Pixel	Orpheus Joshua	8.5 / 10	03-01-2021	Bravely Default II is not a redefiner of the JRPG genre, and it might not stand out in the packed sea of more notable tiles available. However, not every new game has to be a genre definer to be entertaining. This adventure wears its tropes and cliches on its sleeve, but it isn’t ashamed of them. It basks in the roots it hearkens back to, to the point where playing it feels like stepping into a time machine leading to times of old with needed, welcome, modern sensibilities.	Read review
Polygon	Chelsea Stark	Not Recommended	02-25-2021	I'm even more baffled by the enemies for which I don't even get the correct tools to fight. Bravely Default 2 makes it easy to find all enemy weaknesses when I use a turn to inspect them, but some enemies are weak to energy types that I didn't gain access to for a whole two chapters after I first encountered their symbol. The peak of this frustration was when I fought a boss with a beefy minion that was vulnerable only to electricity and light, and completely invulnerable to all physical attacks. I had one character who could cast electrical attacks, and I still had yet to see light energy.	Read review
Post Arcade (National Post)	Chad Sapieha	7 / 10	02-26-2021	The latest retro RPG for Nintendo Switch should score well with genre fans, but probably won't win many fresh converts	Read review
Press Start	James Berich	8.5 / 10	02-25-2021	Bravely Default II is a fun sequel that does it's best to improve on it's predecessor. While the dungeon designs are simplistic and the side quests lack variety, it's hard to ignore what Bravely Default II does well. A combination of great artistic and audio direction and an engaging battle and progression system make Bravely Default II stand out from the rest. Make no mistakes. It's an earnest throwback to an often forgotten era of RPGs and a stellar modernisation of the classic Final Fantasy formula.	Read review
SECTOR.sk	Michal Korec	8.5 / 10	02-25-2021	Four heroes against danger and it is good idea to join their quest.	Read review
Shacknews	Josh Hawkins	8 / 10	02-25-2021	Quote not yet available	Read review
SpazioGames	Unknown	8.2 / 10	02-25-2021	Bravely Default 2 is what you're looking for if you're on the hunt for an extremely traditional yet (at times) punishing JRPG, both on the go and at home.	Read review
Telegraph	Jack Rear	2 / 5 stars	02-25-2021	The new JRPG hitting Nintendo Switch is stuffed full of the genre's most recognisable tropes, for better or worse	Read review
The Digital Fix	Seb Hawden	8 / 10	02-25-2021	While just falling short of being towards the top of my favourite JRPG's, Bravely Default does a lot right. Its job systems and battle system are great fun and the sleep mode sailing game always gives you something fun to return to. The characters and voice acting, in parts, leave a bit to be desired and some of the environments are a bit fuzzy. On the whole you get a lot of game for your money, its an enjoyable, challenging experience and worth your time.	Read review
The Games Machine	Danilo Dellafrana	7.8 / 10	02-25-2021	Bravely Default 2 is a classic JRPG that certainly doesn't reinvent the wheel, but its intriguing combat system and the customization offered by the many classes available can make it interesting for fans of the genre.	Read review
TheSixthAxis	Reuben Mount	8 / 10	02-25-2021	What Bravely Default II has retained from previous games has been polished to a high standard and delivers the perfect slice of turn-based JRPG nonsense you're craving. However, be warned as the areas that have changed aren't as solidly executed and can have frustrating results. Bravely Default II is definitely worth the look for JRPG fans or fans of the series, but be prepared for an experience that's a tad rough at times.	Read review
Twinfinite	Zhiqing Wan	4 / 5 stars	02-25-2021	Bravely Default II can get frustrating at times, but it more than makes up for that by being endlessly charming and endearing, and remains a joy to play through from start to finish.	Read review
VG247	Alex Donaldson	Not Recommended	02-25-2021	As a retro RPG revival, Bravely Default 2 is faithful and full of heart, just like its predecessors. As a high definition 2021 video game, it sometimes falls short.	Read review
Video Chums	Mary Billington	9 / 10	02-25-2021	Fans of the Bravely series will have a blast with Bravely Default II. It may not stray far from its predecessors but it does deliver another thoroughly enjoyable journey with updated graphics and a whole new story with loveable characters.	Read review
Video Games Chronicle	Jon Bailes	3 / 5 stars	02-25-2021	The tactical flexibility in Bravely Default 2 is among the best in class, and tinkering with its possibilities is a fine pass-time in itself. But it gets bogged down in a churn of routine battles, wayward balancing and humdrum fantasy. While the original game’s compact focus felt comfy on a 3DS, the Switch magnifies the blemishes of the sequel and leaves it looking a little underdressed.	Read review
Wccftech	Rosh Kelly	7.5 / 10	02-25-2021	Bravely Default 2 is a comfortable game in an uncomfortable season. It offers a well-refined experience with a few exciting elements but doesn't quite grasp the experimental or groundbreaking design it was shooting for.	Read review
WellPlayed	Kieron Verbrugge	8.5 / 10	02-26-2021	Without straying too far from the formula set by its predecessors, Bravely Default II proves there's still life left in old-school JRPG ideals with challenging and addictive combat and some beautiful sights and sounds. Its punishing nature might put some players off, but the satisfaction of mastering its systems is well worth the time and effort.	Read review
Worth Playing	Chris "Atom" DeAngelus	8 / 10	03-04-2021	All in all, Bravely Default II is a game that chose to play it safe. It offers few surprises or twists, but it does offer one of the most excellent and enjoyable JRPG experiences on the Nintendo Switch. Whatever the story lacks, the gameplay more than makes up for, and I was delighted to advance and find what new jobs I was going to get. It's well worth the money for any Final Fantasy fan or anyone looking for an old-school JRPG. We have to hope that for the next game, the developers decide to go for Brave instead of Default when it comes to the story and setting.	Read review