Octopath Traveler 0: Missing the Heart?

What’s Happening Octopath Traveler 0, the latest in the beloved RPG series, offers a mixed bag for fans. While some gameplay elements are undeniably captivating and the overall experience feels satisfying, it unfortunately falters in areas where its predecessors truly excelled. The core strength of Octopath Traveler games has always been the deep connection players form with characters and their individual stories. Building each person with jobs that feel perfectly suited is a highlight. However, Octopath Traveler 0 is weakest in precisely these critical areas. ## Why This Matters For many, the Octopath Traveler series is defined by its rich narratives and the personal investment players make in their party members. When a game in this franchise struggles to foster that closeness, it fundamentally shifts the player experience away from what made the series special. Producer Hirohito Suzuki hinted at a possible reason in a Square Enix interview, mentioning a “self-insertion situation” as a design choice. This approach, while aiming for player immersion, appears to have inadvertently diluted the strong character-driven storytelling that fans have come to expect and cherish. ## The Bottom Line Ultimately, Octopath Traveler 0 is a game with engaging moments and satisfying mechanics, but it seems to have lost a bit of its soul in the process. It’s a noticeable departure from the character-centric focus that defined earlier entries. Is a “self-insertion” approach worth sacrificing the deep, personal character stories fans adore?