Bravely Second: End Layer Reviews
Look closer and the connections between "the daily grind" and this form of "play" multiply, spiral out, form fractals.
If it weren't for the utterly brilliant turn-based battle system, freely customisable characters through new and old job types, and the breadth of accessible options that enhance the RPG experience tenfold, Bravely Second would be held in lower esteem, since the narrative that tries too much to hit comical notes and lacks a core that sets itself apart from other role-playing storylines is disappointing. There are some clever ideas thrown in that try to improve on the original game's plot, along with a handful of entertaining characters in amongst the obnoxious ones, as well as great use of 3D, but End Layer should be played for its battle and job systems first and foremost, provided the original title was enjoyed.
Bravely Second manages to retain much of what made the first game so good, but it stumbles too much to really leave a mark.
Bravely Second: End Layer does not live up to its predecessor's standards but this does not make it any less of a good RPG. Its visual environment is superb, it's loaded with content and its lifespan will keep everyone around it for a long time. It also improves on its predecessor's class system, while it falls out with the soundtrack and narrative.
Review in Portuguese | Read full review
Bravely Second is a missed opportunity in many ways. It's too similar to the original to woo a new crowd, and any risks it takes are narrative-centric and mostly fall flat. Don't get me wrong, I'm thrilled to still be playing JRPGs in 2016, but it's more important than ever for studios to avoid resting on their laurels.
Bravely Second takes after its predecessor almost to a fault
Despite a cloying story and poor dialogue, Bravely Second is a sweeping adventure.
A great combat system and world held back by immersion-breaking dialogue choices.
A good combat system and gorgeous visuals are significantly let down by an underwhelming and perfunctory narrative that can make progression a real chore. Whilst there are elements that work in isolation, Bravely Second doesn't manage to tie them together in a way that matches the quality of the original.
The follow-up to Square Enix's terrific JRPG Bravely Default is decidedly the former. And while it's a great game, it may not satisfy everyone.
Too similar to the first chapter, Bravely Second: End Layer has a bland story and a cast of characters not exactly charismatic. It convinces only thanks to the proven combat system and the ability skill management. You could expect a lot more.
Review in Italian | Read full review
Enjoying everything Bravely Second has to offer still requires putting up with a lot of filler
Although it’s not going to win over those who struggled to get into Bravely Default from the early going, Bravely Second should hold great appeal for everyone else.
All in all, it was still a great game from beginning to end with a nifty little twist once you "beat" the game. It's addicting and really fun to play and it makes me wish for more turn-based RPGs. Even if Square decides to re-use everything again, I really wouldn't mind seeing a Bravely Third. If you're a fan of classic RPGs, then I believe that this is a must-have title. Despite its flaws, it's still a charming game that gives you a great dose of nostalgia while providing you with hours upon hours of entertainment you find yourself coming back to after you put the game down thinking you've had enough!
A spellbinding, effortlessly charming JRPG that freaks with the formula while respecting what makes the genre great. While some might find Bravely Second two twee or jokey to be taken seriously, others will find a smart, witty and surprisingly rich adventure, mixing old-school style with brilliant 3D graphics and a knowing, humorous tone. We'd warmly recommend it.
"Bravely Second: End Layer" is a well-polished rendition of the classic gameplay that fans of Japanese RPGs know and love. The game doesn't necessarily break any new ground in a widely travelled genre and can be susceptible to some well worn RPG tropes. Its beautifully presented world combined with wonderful music and fun battle system, however, make the game a pleasing romp and worthy addition to any classic JRPG fan's library.
Bravely Second is one of the few JRPGs to play purely for the gameplay. While the story is good, the writing tends to spoil one too many potentially great moments with unnecessary fluff and comedic skits. On the other hand, everything else about the game is fantastic and was more than enough to hold my attention. Though the writing may make you cringe, the fun and incredibly deep battle and customization system makes this an easy recommendation to any JRPG fan.
Bravely Second: End Layer isn't quite the innovative powerhouse its predecessor was, but offers a more refined experience that learns from Bravely Default's mistakes.
Bravely Default modernized the classic Final Fantasy formula, but Bravely Second improves on it in almost every way.
Another inspired attempt to modernise old school Japanese role-players, while retaining all the charm and depth of early era Final Fantasies.