What is OCTOPATH TRAVELER: Champions of the Continent?
OCTOPATH TRAVELER: Champions of the Continent is a free-to-play single-player RPG for mobile devices (iOS and Android) and serves as a prequel to the highly acclaimed console title, OCTOPATH TRAVELER. The game retains the signature "HD-2D" graphical style, blending retro pixel art characters with modern 3D environments and effects. The story is set years before the events of the original game, focusing on the dark reign of three tyrants over the continent of Orsterra, and the player's journey to confront them. While the core turn-based combat and path actions remain, the game expands the party size to eight characters.
How to Play OCTOPATH TRAVELER: Champions of the Continent
Playing Champions of the Continent involves classic turn-based JRPG exploration, combat, and party management, adapted for mobile devices:
1. Exploration and Path Actions
You explore towns and fields on the continent of Orsterra. Similar to the main titles, characters have unique **Path Actions** that allow you to interact with NPCs. Instead of eight distinct main characters, you follow a chosen story path (Wealth, Power, or Glory), recruiting many characters along the way.
2. Combat System (Boost and Break)
Combat is turn-based and retains the core **Boost** and **Break** system. Enemies have weaknesses (weapons or elements). Striking a weakness depletes their shield points. Depleting all shield points "breaks" the enemy, making them vulnerable. Players use **Boost Points (BP)** to multiply the power or number of attacks, strategically focusing on breaking enemies.
3. Party Management and Recruitment
The biggest difference is the party size. You assemble a battle party of eight characters (four frontline, four backline) that can be swapped mid-battle. Characters are recruited via the **Gacha** system (called "Guide") using Rubies, emphasizing collecting a wide variety of Travelers with different strengths.
4. Story Progression
You progress through the main story chapters, choosing a narrative path (e.g., the story of "The Wealthy") which dictates the immediate challenges and bosses you face, gradually leading to the ultimate confrontation against the tyrants.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this game a sequel or a prequel to OCTOPATH TRAVELER?
It is a prequel, set before the events of the original OCTOPATH TRAVELER.
Does the game use the classic HD-2D graphical style?
Yes, it faithfully retains the distinctive HD-2D graphical style, mixing 2D pixel sprites with 3D effects and camera work.
Is Champions of the Continent a free-to-play game?
Yes, it is a free-to-play game with optional in-app purchases, primarily centered around the character recruitment system.
What is the Gacha system called in this game?
The Gacha system for recruiting new characters is called the "Guide" system.
How many characters can I have in my party?
Unlike the console titles, you can bring eight characters into battle (four active in the front row, four ready to swap in the back row).
Can I play as the original eight Travelers from the first game?
Yes, the original eight Travelers (Olberic, Primrose, Tressa, etc.) have been gradually added to the game's Guide/Recruitment pool.
Do I need to have played the console games to understand the story?
No, since it is a prequel, new players can jump right in. Fans of the console games will appreciate the returning lore and references.
Is the combat purely turn-based?
Yes, the combat is based on the traditional turn-based structure with the strategic Boost and Break mechanics.
Are there multiple job classes for characters?
Each character comes with a fixed job class, but the strategy comes from recruiting characters who cover all the necessary weapon and elemental types.
Can I play this game offline?
No, as an online mobile game with a Gacha system and live updates, an internet connection is required to play.
What are the three main storyline paths?
The initial story is divided into three parallel paths: "The Opulence of Wealth," "The Fame of Power," and "The Zenith of Glory."
Does the game have an auto-battle feature?
Yes, an auto-battle feature is available, particularly useful for grinding experience and farming materials.
Are the Path Actions the same as in the original game?
The names and function of Path Actions are generally the same (e.g., Scrutinize, Guide), but they are used by individual Travelers rather than the main character.
Is this game considered canon to the main series story?
Yes, Champions of the Continent is an officially recognized part of the OCTOPATH TRAVELER timeline and lore.
What are Rubies used for?
Rubies are the premium currency used primarily for the Guide (Gacha) system to recruit new Travelers and acquire better gear.
How often are new characters released?
New Travelers, often including powerful 5-star characters, are typically released every few weeks as part of ongoing live service events.
Is the music by the original composer?
Yes, the acclaimed music composer Yasunori Nishiki returned to compose the score for Champions of the Continent, ensuring the same quality of music fans expect.