Bravely Default Reviews
Bravely Default: Where the Fairy Flies is a bit of a return to form, albeit hopefully the rule rather than the exception when it comes to Square-Enix’s future. It is surprisingly adept at fusing classic RPG ingredients with novel refinements, and plus, it wields a story which at first appears traditional but eventually grows horns and attacks you. Its shameless implementation of 90s-era mechanics and design does mean that participants will need to have a love for conventional JRPGs—and perhaps a bit of patience to endure the homogeneity of the first part of the game—but beyond that, Bravely Default is a great experience.
Bravely Default’s decision to transform turns into a currency adds a layer of complexity to classic JRPG combat, and the flexible job system gives you tons of room for customization. Honestly, if you’re a fan of the genre, then there’s little here not to like.
Bravely Default is a wonderful little game if you understand where it’s coming from.
In short, Bravely Default is the Japanese RPG that we've been waiting for. As many JRPG companies cram increasingly bizarre gimmicks, half naked underage-looking girls, or overly convoluted plots into their games, Bravely Default reminds us that it's possible to go back to basics without feeling stale. This classic Final Fantasy-style game is beautifully executed, fun to play, and not to be missed by anybody who has ever loved the JRPG genre.
Bravely Default is a masterful blend of old and new
Bravely Default is an RPG for everyone. Its configuration and customization possibilities make it a great choice to be someone's first RPG or 500th RPG. It has a story that starts out cliché but ends up leaving a lasting impression, gameplay that stays interesting for triple-digit hours, a blend of innovation and tradition, graphics and music that please the eyes and ears, and when it's all over, left me with a feeling well beyond satisfaction.
Bravely Default is the best new Final Fantasy game I've played in years, and it isn't even a Final Fantasy game.
However, the game is also let down by its fair share of derivative and less ambitious features. Bravely Default disappointingly wastes a lot of its potential, but Square Enix will get another shot with the already-announced sequel.
Bravely Default is, for better or worse, a pretty good '90s RPG
If you've got a craving for that classic RPG feeling, this is your game. Four heroes; four crystals; a world to be saved--you know how it is.
Bravely Default is a reminder that classic Final Fantasy themes and gameplay elements are timeless in the right hands. Unfortunately, its later segments are some of the worst examples of unnecessary padding in RPG history. All told, it’s a flawed masterpiece that shows more potential than any other current Square Enix RPG property.
This isn't the next big JRPG, but it'll certainly take you a long time to complete.
It's a return to Final Fantasy's roots, and it's beautiful.
While many might argue that turn-based combat has become stagnant over the years, 'Bravely Default' intends to breath it new life.
Bravely Default is a joy to play for old school JRPG fans. The music, graphics and mechanics all blend together perfectly and it continues in a already strong lineup of RPGs on the 3DS. This little handheld is becoming quite the powerhouse for these kind of games.
Together with the Brave/Default mechanic, wealth of character customization, and overall streamlined approach, Bravely Default manages to maintain that classic JRPG feel while modernizing outdated conventions.
Silicon Studios and Square Enix have delivered an almost classic, very Final Fantasy-esque Japanese role-playing game for Nintendo 3DS
Bravely Default is a refreshing infusion of modernity into what's otherwise a traditional old-school RPG. It adds some new spice to turn-based battles, while also adding an engaging story, an engrossing Job system, and much-needed customization.
The tale of Bravely Default is lovable, if a bit cliché.
Bravely Default: Where The Fairy Flies comes remarkably close to being one of the best JRPGs I've ever played. The combat system is exciting, difficult, and highly customizable. The early design is wonderful, and the level of freedom with the game's difficulty makes it easy for anyone to play. Unfortunately, the game design falls so heavily in the last chapters that it becomes a chore to finish. That's still 25 hours of great gameplay before 5-10 hours of tedium, but it's enough to drag down the experience. If you're a JRPG fan, you must play Bravely Default. It comes so close to greatness that it's possible to overlook its glaring flaws. Just be warned that it'll be a slog to get to the end.