8-Bit Adventures 2

Really, it's 8-Bit Adventures 2's straightforward, but tidily balanced gameplay that ties the package together. Turn-based combat is, of course, the order of the day, with each party member bringing their own unique abilities to the fray.

8-Bit Adventures 2 is an exquisitely crafted RPG epic that any fan of classic (and we mean classic) RPGs will appreciate for its adherence to the conventions of games of the era. With gorgeous pixel art, a satisfying battle style with as much challenge as variety, and a story that both honours and subverts RPG tropes, there's so much to love. However, it doesn't always respect your time and the lack of some modern conveniences - auto-battle, an auto-scroll for dialogue, any real way to point you towards your goal or remind you of the story so far - could make this a journey that many get lost on before reaching the end.

Simply put, this game rocks!

Every little detail in 8-Bit Adventures 2 combines to deliver a nostalgic yet modern RPG experience. Its RPG mechanics are modern yet classic, which are easy to understand, and the combat has enough depth to keep you immersed in the game. The story pulls you into the world and it is also one of the reasons why you keep coming back to it and completing it. For around 40-45 hours, 8-Bit Adventures 2 can easily keep you occupied with its beautiful, pixelated visuals, a solid soundtrack, and excellent combat. If you love playing RPGs from the early 90s when visuals were pixelated and gameplay mechanics were deep, 8-Bit Adventures 2 is a great game for you to jump into because it will keep you busy for hours to come with its expansive world and a cool airship to travel around.

The vibrant use of color and variety of settings help make adventure maintain momentum once it gets going, but it's hard not to see the finished product as needing a good trim. If you need to explain what a save point does in a game tailormade for RPG fans, then you aren't really respecting the time of your target audience. There's a really enjoyable 20-30 hours here if you cut out a portion of the early game and the over-tutorializing, but in a year of incredible additions to the RPG genre, 8-Bit Adventures 2 is a tougher sell.

8-Bit Adventures 2 makes for a great palette cleanser between longer big-budget titles, helped along by the fantastic spritework and soundtrack. Its pacing might not be to everyone’s tastes, but this is an RPG that rarely wastes your time.

8-Bit Adventures 2 is a story-driven RPG that feels like the classics in the genre. It is now available on all platforms, so you need to check it out!

8-Bit Adventures 2 is a blast. The game is fun and charming, easily doing the hard work of winning over and keeping the player hooked. All this, I must say, while paying a beautiful homage to titles from past eras. If you're looking for a cool RPG to pass the time, go for it. You won't regret it.

A very accessible and enjoyable adventure with a classic 8-bit RPG look, feel, and perspective

8-Bit Adventures 2 is easily my favourite RPG surprise of the year. Going in, I expected another formulaic RPG Maker project, but instead, I was met with a heartfelt plot and deep, engaging gameplay. I absolutely recommend this game for fans of the genre, but even newcomers will find it welcoming while still offering a satisfying challenge. If you’re looking for your next long-term game project, look no further.