Retro Revamped is a series of review articles written about new games that attempt to embody the founding principles of their respective genres, whilst still yielding an experience that feels nuanced and fresh. What constitutes a game that “feels” retro is completely my subjective opinion, and may not have been the intention of the developers.

Introduction

Bravely Default was responsible for renewing my interest in JRPGs, following a prolonged hiatus resulting from burn out. When I first obtained Bravely Default, I held on to it for over a year before jumping in. Why? Well, because I feared I didn’t have the time to invest in an expansive JRPG. At the time this was true, considering I was working multiple jobs and going to school at night. When the doldrums of life were replaced instead by a more sustainable existence, I finally did venture into the world of Luxendarc my life quickly reverting back to my childhood. I went on an RPG binge that continues even now.

After taking a break from the Bravely Default for a while, exploring new JRPGs and childhood favorites such as Phantasy Star, I revisited the game and tied up some loose ends; namely defeating the secret Uber-bosses, The Adventurer and Comrade.

This additional taste of the Bravely world compelled me to finally commit to finishing the sequel: Bravely Second: End Layer; but how would it measure up to the well-regarded original? Would it continue to foster my reignited passion for JRPGs, or would it usher in a new era of RPG-fatigue?

Continue reading “Retro Revamped #2: Bravely Second: End Layer”