I wasn’t sold on the Switch 2, but then Nintendo promised me a remaster of a game I’ve been hankering to play again for over 10 years

Just a couple of days before the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, I decided to upgrade my 3DS charging cables. The old ones are now lost in a cluttered drawer, replaced by these affordable £3 replacements. My motivation for this upgrade was my desire to revisit some classic games like Shin Megami Tensei 4, Shin Megami Tensei 4: Apocalypse, and the original Bravely Default.

Initially, I wasn’t overly excited about the Switch 2. The high price point of $449.99 and the $80 price tag for games made me hesitant. The lack of information on game compatibility and the need to pay for upgrades to existing Switch games didn’t sit well with me. However, as someone who grew up as a Sega kid and not a Nintendo fan, I was on the fence about getting a Switch 2 on launch day.

Despite my initial reservations, my love for RPGs, especially those developed by Japanese teams, swayed me. As I glanced at my 3DS with Bravely Default beckoning me, the Direct unveiled the new game, and I was hooked. The trailer drew me in, and I found myself pre-ordering the Switch 2 without hesitation. It’s amazing how a 2.43-minute video can change your mind and make you part with $450 for a game released in 2013.

Admittedly, Bravely Default has its flaws, especially in the late-game section. However, I enjoyed the strategic elements it introduced and the challenging difficulty curve reminiscent of classic Final Fantasy games. The game’s art direction by Akihiko Yoshida and the script by Naotaka Hayashi added depth and maturity to the experience, making it stand out in the RPG genre.

The battle system in Bravely Default is innovative and engaging, offering a unique risk-reward dynamic that keeps players on their toes. The game’s self-awareness and willingness to poke fun at genre tropes add charm and humor to the overall experience.

As I eagerly await the release of Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remastered on the Nintendo Switch 2’s launch day, I can’t help but reflect on my love for niche RPGs. While others explore the new games on the Switch 2, I’ll be immersed in the world of Bravely Default, enjoying every moment of the gameplay.