No—you don’t need to play Octopath Traveler before Octopath Traveler II. Square Enix describes the sequel as a story in a new, independent world, and producer Masashi Takahashi says there is no continuous narrative between the games. Play the first game before the second if you want release order; start with II if it’s the one you’re more interested in or the only one you plan to play.
Should I play Octopath Traveler 1 before 2?
Either order works for understanding the story. The games share a broad identity—each is an HD-2D RPG with eight protagonists and their own stories—but they take place in different worlds. Octopath Traveler is set in Orsterra; Octopath Traveler II is set in Solistia. Square Enix says the games are standalone experiences, and Takahashi put it plainly: “there’s no continuous narrative between that game and Octopath Traveler II!”
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
OCTOPATH TRAVELER 0 (NSW) | $29.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Octopath Traveler II - Nintendo Switch | $39.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
The Art of Octopath Traveler: 2016-2020 | $24.26 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
Octopath Traveler: The Complete Guide | $33.39 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
|
The Art of Octopath Traveler: 2020-2023 | $37.18 | Buy on Amazon |
That means the first game is not a prerequisite for the sequel. Square Enix describes II as “the perfect entry for newcomers to the series, while also preserving the charm of the original game for existing fans.” That is the publisher’s positioning, not an independent verdict on which game is better.
Which game should you start with?
| If you… | Start with… | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Plan to play both and prefer release order | Octopath Traveler | It is the original release, so this follows the series’ release order. It is a preference, not a story requirement. |
| Want the newer standalone entry | Octopath Traveler II | Square Enix presents it as suitable for newcomers, and its story is independent of the first game. |
| Expect to play only one | Either one | Neither game depends on the other’s plot. Choose based on which setting or edition appeals to you. |
Can I start with Octopath Traveler II?
Yes. The sequel’s new setting and independent story let you begin there without needing to know the first game. If you want to try it before deciding, Square Enix announced a three-hour demo with save carryover in 2023. That announcement does not establish whether the demo is currently offered in your store or region, so check your local digital storefront.
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#1 Best Overall
- Embark on an adventure of your own creation. The latest in the OCTOPATH TRAVELER series.
- New story content – Experience original, streamlined story content and quests with new paths to achieve.
- Character creation – Create a customized protagonist with unique appearance, voice, motions and more.
- Town building system – Rebuild the protagonist's town as the story progresses with evolving town reconstruction mechanics and development while inviting new people to live in the town.*
- HD-2D Visuals – The series’ iconic graphic style returns, bringing a striking blend of retro 2D characters in a beautiful 3D world.
Where can you play the games?
Platform listings depend on the game, edition, date, and region. Square Enix’s July 13, 2026 announcement says both games are coming to Nintendo Switch 2 on October 1, 2026. It announced individual digital releases and a physical Switch 2 bundle, while warning that store availability may vary by region. The publisher lists II for Switch 2, Switch, Steam, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Xbox on PC.
In a June 2024 announcement, Square Enix said both games were available across PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows PC, and Steam. For a purchase, check the live listing for your region and chosen platform rather than assuming a particular version or bundle is available.
Rank #2
- Begin your adventure as one of eight new travelers, each with their own origins, motivations, and unique skills
- The series’ HD-2D graphics, a fusion of retro pixel art and 3DCG, have reached even greater heights
- The story takes place in Solistia, where diverse cultures thrive from east to west and the industries of the new era flourish; You can sail the seas and explore every corner of a world that changes from day to night
- Each traveler has a unique set of Path Actions they can use to battle townspeople, obtain items, take others along in their travels, and more; Where will you go, What will you do, Every path is yours to take
- Familiar mechanics from the original game have been preserved, like the freedom to develop your travelers’ jobs and skills, as well as the Break and Boost system that made battles so exhilarating; New mechanics have also been added
Square Enix reported that the series had shipped and sold more than six million copies worldwide in its July 2026 announcement. That is a combined series figure, not sales for either game individually.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Is one game objectively better?
The official information establishes that the games share an HD-2D format and eight-protagonist structure while using distinct worlds and stories. It does not establish a universal winner for writing, combat, difficulty, pacing, value, or performance across every version. Choose by your own preference—or play them in release order if you intend to experience both.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
