Bravely Default (3DS)

This is an awesome little game, brought to us by none other than Square Enix and Silicon Studio. The movement within towns is very much reminiscent of Ni No Kuni's world map, and the graphics also remind me of that awesome JRPG.

A Final Fantasy spiritual sequel?

Though this game is very Final Fantasy-esque, it also has elements of Dragon Age and other JRPGs such as Ni No Kuni. For example, the map roaming reminds me of Ni No Kuni in that you wander around the map to get to the next area, rather than it being through a gate.

Of course, being by Square Enix, this is a game that's bound to have elements of Final Fantasy in it- as a matter of fact, the protagonist (Tiz) looks a little like a chibi version of Vaan from Final Fantasy XII! But that isn't necessarily a bad thing, as it has allowed Square Enix to create yet another brilliant RPG.

Music

One of the things that I love about Bravely Default is the music. Each place, event and conversation has some of the best music I've heard in a video game!

Enemy encounters

The title comes from the game's main two battle options- Brave (your selected character unleashes multiple attacks in one turn) and Default (where you can store battle points for later). As well as this, you have your standard JRPG mode of fighting, with an added "summon friend" option that allows you to use moves sent via the 3ds system's WiFi.

Jobs

Jobs are the roles your characters will take. As the game progresses, you can give your characters more specialized roles and buy items/ spells to make them better at their jobs. You also get pretty costumes, which is awesome. This allows you to bring more diversity to your battles, rather than just having a team of low-health fighters.

Special Moves

Each weapon type has its own special move, which creates awesome 3D scenes!

Use of AR

This game uses the 3DS's ability to read AR cards to its advantage- as a matter of fact, one of the first things you'll do in the game involves an AR card. These are available to download from Nintendo's website, though you don't necessarily have to have the cards, as the game can operate without them- it's just easier if you do!

Overall thoughts

This is another great JRPG from Square Enix, and it plays very well on the 3DS. It even takes advantage of the 3DS system's unique features such as AR and, of course, the 3D. It's a wonderfully beautiful game that shows off the best of both the 3DS and the genius of the developers in the creation of the game.

If you like JRPGs or just want a long game that's fun to play throughout for the 3DS, I strongly recommend that you pick up a copy of Bravely Default!

This review is also live at The Gaming Rig! Go check them out!

All images/videos are owned by Nintendo. "Bravely Default" is owned by Square Enix/Silicon Studio/Nintendo.

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