Coinciding with the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 today, this time without a Collector’s Edition figure that I think is staring into my soul, Square Enix has officially released Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster, offering players a revitalised version of the 2012 Nintendo 3DS title. This updated release brings the original’s RPG mechanics and narrative into high definition, accompanied by new content designed specifically for the upgraded hardware.
Set in the world of Luxendarc, Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster follows a quartet of unlikely heroes: Agnès Oblige, Tiz Arrior, Edea Lee, Ringabel and the cryst-fairy Airy, as they journey to restore the balance of four elemental crystals disrupted by an ominous force from the Great Chasm. The game’s story is interwoven with traditional turn-based combat, powered by the signature “Brave & Default” system, where players tactically manage turns to either defend or launch multiple attacks in succession.
The game retains its original job system, allowing players to customise party builds with more than 20 job classes and experiment with various ability combinations. Combat remains turn-based but can be sped up to match player preference, and is accompanied by a soundtrack composed by Revo, known for his work on the original game.
While sequels to the original game have been made available on multiple platforms, this remaster is exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2. In turn, it introduces two new minigames that leverage the console’s mouse input functionality. Luxencheer Rhythm Catch is a rhythm-based performance game in which players wave mice like glow sticks, while Ringabel’s Panic Cruise challenges players to steer an airship and complete party requests simultaneously. Both offer rewards such as costumes, collectible notes, and an accessory that disables enemy encounters.
