Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster flew under the radar when it released exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2 as a launch title in June. If you’re a fan of traditional turn-based RPGs made by Square Enix, we’d highly recommend checking it out–especially now that it has received its first discount. Amazon Prime members can get Bravely Default HD Remaster for $30 (was $40). This is a limited-time Lightning Deal.
Bravely Default originally released on Nintendo 3DS in Japan in 2012. An expanded version of Flying Fairy arrived in North America in 2014, so the Switch 2 edition is technically the third iteration of the thoroughly nostalgic turn-based RPG. Bravely Default is one of the best games from the Nintendo 3DS era, and the remaster is great for newcomers and returning players alike.
$30 (was $40) | Limited-time deal
Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster’s physical edition is one of many third-party Switch 2 games that includes a Game-Key Card instead of the full game on the card. When you insert the card for the first time, your console will download the game data from Nintendo’s servers. The remaster takes up 9.3GB of storage space.
Along with the visual overhaul, the remaster adds a new fast-forward option for cutscene events, two all-new minigames, and more. Since the original 3DS version used a dual-screen interface, UI and menu systems were remade for the Switch 2’s single screen. The presentation is similar to Bravely Default II for Switch.
Bravely Default has a robust Job system that fans of classic Final Fantasy games will likely appreciate. You can modify your roles for each party member at any time. The weapon/armor catalog adds another layer of depth as you balance your party for some of the game’s tougher bosses. All of these overarching systems feed into a turn-based combat system that is every bit as fun today as it was over a decade ago.
If you enjoy Square Enix’s Octopath Traveler series, there’s a good chance you’ll enjoy Bravely Default’s systems. The title references the combat system’s central mechanic: Brave/Default. Characters can use future turns in advance, allowing them to attack four times in one turn. The caveat here is that party members who use Brave will have to wait multiple turns to attack again. Default is the opposite; you forgo your turn and save it for later. Party members can Default up to three times. Then you can attack four times and still participate in your next turn.
Popular time-saving features return in the remaster, including adjustable battle speeds and enemy encounter rates. You can also create custom auto-battle profiles, which is a handy option if you’re grinding levels while streaming a TV show or movie. The mainline campaign offers over 50 hours of content, but when you include side content that figure can double.
Since its original release on 3DS, Bravely Default has received two sequels: Bravely Second: End Layer for 3DS and Bravely Default II for Nintendo Switch. The latter is available for 33% off at Amazon. Prices for the original 3DS game and Bravely Second vary since they are long out of print, but each one is currently going for $50 from resellers on Amazon.
Bravely Default Series
Bravely Default Art Books
Square Enix has also partnered with Dark Horse on official art books for all three Bravely games. The Art of Bravely Default is on sale for $22.82 (was $40) at Amazon. Fans can also save big on The Art of Bravely Default II, which released earlier this year. The 304-page hardcover is on sale for $25.49 (was $50). The Art of Bravely Second: End Layer is the only one that’s not discounted right now.
Nintendo Switch 1/2 JRPG Game Deals
Bravely Default HD Remaster is far from the only Square Enix RPG for Switch 1/2 on sale at Amazon this week. The Final Fantasy I-VI Collection Anniversary Edition is discounted to only $40 (was $75). Fans can also pick up the Amazon Edition of Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles for $40 (was $50). The turn-based tactics game comes with a free double-sided poster if you buy it from Amazon. Final Fantasy Tactics has a free Switch 2 upgrade. Switch 2 owners can also upgrade Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake for free. The stellar HD-2D Remake of DQIII is discounted to $35 this week.
Check out more Switch 1/2 RPG deals below. A bunch of the games on the list were published by Square Enix, but there are notable deals on retro RPGs from other studios, including Suikoden I & II HD Remaster (Konami) and the Switch 2 version of Persona 3 Reload (Atlus).