Octopath Traveler (2018)
Game Description:
In "Octopath Traveler," released in 2018 for the Nintendo Switch, players embark on a journey through the vibrant world of Orsterra, where eight distinct characters, each with their own unique stories and abilities, set out on personal quests. The game features a unique "HD-2D" art style, blending retro pixel art with modern CG effects. Players can choose any of the eight protagonists, including a warrior, a dancer, a merchant, and a scholar, to start their adventure, with the freedom to explore the intertwining narratives of the other characters. The game emphasizes strategic turn-based combat, where players exploit enemy weaknesses and build up powerful attacks. As the stories unfold, players uncover hidden connections and face formidable challenges.
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What Parents Should Know About Octopath Traveler
Age Rating
Release Date
2018
ESRB Age Rating Summary:
Octopath Traveler is rated T for Teen by the ESRB with Blood, Fantasy Violence, Mild Language, Suggestive Themes, and Use of Alcohol. This is a role-playing game in which players follow a story, through the perspectives of eight different characters, in the fantasy world of Orsterra. As players explore villages and caves, they interact with locals and battle brigands, monsters, demons, and other fantastical creatures. Combat is turn-based, with players selecting attack moves from a menu. Characters use swords, spears, and magic attacks (e.g., ice spikes, fireballs) to defeat enemies; battles are highlighted by cries of pain, impact sounds, and light effects. One boss character is depicted with a bloody sickle and a bottle of blood; a pool of blood also appears in a cutscene. A handful of female characters wear outfits that reveal large amounts of cleavage; the dialogue also contains suggestive material (e.g., “That naughty mouth of yours belongs to me. Put it where it belongs...” and "Master...go pleasure yourself."). One sequence requires players to spike a barrel of wine and give it to others; another scene depicts a slurring, hiccupping man called “Crest-bearing drunk.” The word “bastard” appears in dialogue.
Content Warnings:
Blood, Fantasy Violence, Mild Language, Suggestive Themes, Use of Alcohol
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Parental Notes
While many parents praise the gameplay experience, they caution that Octopath Traveler contains elements that may not be suitable for younger children. The game includes mild language, with words like “bastard” appearing in dialogue. Violence is present but not graphic, featuring turn-based combat with cries of pain and impact sounds. Some scenes depict blood, such as a boss character with a bloody sickle and a pool of blood in a cutscene. Suggestive themes are also noted, with female characters in revealing outfits and dialogue with sexual innuendos. Alcohol use is depicted, including a scene where players spike wine. Many parents recommend the game for teens 13 and older due to these mature themes.
Why Your Kid Might Like Octopath Traveler
Octopath Traveler, released in 2018 for the Nintendo Switch, offers a unique blend of retro and modern visuals that appeals to teens. The "HD-2D" art style combines nostalgic pixel art with contemporary CG effects, creating a visually stunning experience. The game allows players to choose from eight distinct characters, each with their own story and abilities, providing a sense of freedom and personalization. Teens enjoy the strategic turn-based combat system, which requires them to think critically and plan their moves to exploit enemy weaknesses and build powerful attacks.
The intertwining narratives of the characters keep players engaged as they uncover hidden connections and face challenging quests. The game's open-world exploration and the ability to switch between characters' stories offer a sense of adventure and discovery. The depth of the characters and their personal quests resonate with teens, who appreciate the opportunity to delve into each character's journey. Octopath Traveler's combination of strategy, storytelling, and exploration makes it a popular choice among teens who enjoy RPGs with rich narratives and engaging gameplay.