The first Octopath Traveler was a trailblazer for HD-2D games, as it was the first game to adopt the art style. Now, you can see HD-2D games everywhere, a style that mimics 2D pixel art with 3D environments and lighting. 8 years after this visual style was popularized, there are tons of options if you’re into JRPGs with this look. Here are our top five HD-2D JRPGs that we recommend you play.
Unicorn Overlord
ATLUS and Vanillaware teamed up to bring us Unicorn Overlord, a tactical RPG with an innovative battle system that lets you customize units and watch them fight in real time. As the commander, you’ll be deciding on where and when to send your units to ensure victory.
This makes its combat system entirely unique from other games on this list. Still, it shares the familiar HD-2D art style in the overworld, while having gorgeous close-ups of characters during dialogue moments. With over 60 characters to meet and recruit, you’re in for a journey with Unicorn Overlord.
Triangle Strategy
Square Enix knew they hit the jackpot after creating Octopath Traveler, so they ended up creating similar titles with the familiar HD-2D visual style, like Triangle Strategy. This game was a tactics JRPG set in a war-torn world between three great powers.
The choices you make in Triangle Strategy will affect the path you take and which allies you’ll be able to recruit. While it may not be the most beloved recent Square Enix title, it showed the potential of future HD-2D JRPGs apart from the Octopath series.
Octopath Traveler 2
While the first Octopath Traveler set a precedent within its own franchise and with the HD-2D visual style, its sequel enhanced everything that was already good with the first title. Most fans consider it a step-up from the original, giving players a whole new story to follow.
Just like the first game, Octopath Traveler 2 lets you play as 8 different characters who eventually join up after you explore each of their adventures. The iconic HD-2D art style has never looked so good, whether you’re in tense turn-based battles or just exploring the overworld.
Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake
While Dragon Quest III HD-2D remake came out first, I & II HD-2D Remake is the more recent entry and gives players access to two beloved classics in a reimagined art style. Square Enix is back at it again, but this time with an HD-2D style that’s a lot more colorful and cartoonish.
Veterans and newcomers to the series can enjoy this game that revitalizes the first two Dragon Quest games. Its beautiful take of the HD-2D style and riveting turn-based combat makes this title well worth playing.
Octopath Traveler 0
Octopath Traveler 0 is the latest entry in the series, but instead of following 8 characters, you make your own protagonist who can recruit dozens of unique party members. Not only do you get to experience a lengthy saga and epic fights, but you can restore and rebuild your hometown to its former glory.
The great thing about Octopath Traveler 0 is that you don’t have to play the older games to get into it. It’s the most modern take on this HD-2D JRPG series, meaning the visuals, story, and gameplay are at their best.
Aside from these incredible HD-2D JRPGs, you may also be interested in these 5 games to play if you loved Pragmata.
