Octopath Traveler 2 Highlights the Strengths and Weaknesses of Individual Character Stories in RPGs
All video game RPGs owe much of their foundation to Dungeons & Dragons, and my recent playthrough of Octopath Traveler 2 underscored how both tabletop RPGs and JRPGs can excel or falter when focusing on character backstories and goals. The Octopath Traveler series pays homage to Square Enix’s niche SaGa franchise with its roster of multiple protagonists and nonlinear gameplay. However, while Octopath Traveler 2 offers a richer experience compared to its predecessor by expanding interactions between characters, it also illustrates some of the pitfalls associated with putting individual character stories at the forefront.
In D&D 5e, Backgrounds help shape a character’s goals and traits, serving as a solid foundation for new players. More experienced tabletop RPG enthusiasts often prefer to craft their own backstories and aspirations. Despite this, Octopath Traveler 2 demonstrates how focusing solely on individual character quests can lead to disjointed narratives.
Though Octopath Traveler 2 features more engaging interactions between party members compared to the first game, it still suffers from the issue of each character’s story feeling like a separate solo mission, with allies merely providing additional support. While there are some side missions involving two characters and occasional commentary from party members on each other’s quests, the individual narratives remain largely isolated.
The problem of having each character pursue their own goals without a unifying objective is evident in Octopath Traveler 2, mirroring the challenges a Dungeon Master (DM) might face if they centered a D&D campaign solely around disparate character backstories. Without a common goal, player characters’ drives may clash or lack coherence, making the campaign feel fragmented.
A D&D campaign benefits from a shared goal that fosters group cohesion and allows for the organic development of camaraderie. While individual character ambitions can enhance the story, a strong overarching quest is crucial for ensuring that all party members remain engaged and invested in the campaign. For instance, a campaign where each character’s backstory is the sole focus could result in a chaotic and disjointed experience, as seen in Octopath Traveler 2.
To avoid this issue, a DM should consider incorporating mandated elements into character creation, such as shared affiliations or goals. This approach helps ensure that all characters have a reason to work together, whether through loyalty to a common cause or alignment with a shared moral framework. While this might limit some aspects of character freedom, it promotes a more cohesive and engaging campaign experience.
In conclusion, while Octopath Traveler 2 provides a compelling JRPG experience with its individual character stories, it also serves as a reminder that a balanced approach, combining personal quests with a central shared goal, is essential for a successful D&D campaign. A well-crafted campaign integrates character backstories into a unified narrative, allowing for both personal and collective achievements.
