From the creative minds behind Octopath Traveler and Bravely Default, Square Enix has quietly announced The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales — a new HD-2D action RPG that arrives not as a reinvention of something beloved, but as something entirely its own. Unveiled during a Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase in mid-2025, the game signals that the studio is capable of holding two truths at once: that action and tradition need not be enemies, and that a genre's future is best served by expanding its edges rather than erasing its roots. A playable demo is already available, with a full mu
GamesRadar+
· Jul 31, 2025
· technology
· 2 min read
High
Sourcing: Verified
Square Enix's New HD-2D Action RPG Joins Turn-Based Octopath Traveler 0
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Bias & Framing
⚖
Article uses celebratory framing and personal enthusiasm to cover Square Enix announcements, with minimal critical analysis or balanced perspective on the games' features.
Bias Direction
center-right
Confidence
MED
Enthusiast advocacy framing - the writer expresses personal excitement ('best timeline for once,' 'genuinely looks great') and frames the announcements as positive news rather than providing neutral reporting. Uses phrases like 'proudly turn-based' that valorize design choices.
best timeline for once
genuinely looks great
proudly turn-based
all-new, every bit as gorgeous
punchy, dungeon-crawler version
will sound far-fetched
Skeptical or critical takes on action RPG vs turn-based design trade-offs
Player concerns about platform exclusivity or pricing
Analysis of whether HD-2D aesthetic is becoming oversaturated
Developer or industry commentary on the shift from turn-based to action combat
Comparison of gameplay depth between action and turn-based mechanics
Geopolitical Impact
🌎
This article discusses video game announcements and has no geopolitical implications.
Escalation Risk
N/A
Confidence
HIGH
Economic Lens
📈
Square Enix launches new HD-2D action RPG alongside turn-based Octopath Traveler 0, diversifying JRPG portfolio across Nintendo Switch 2 and multiplatform release in 2026, signaling continued investment in niche gaming markets.
Market Signal
bullish
Confidence
HIGH
Video game development and publishing
Gaming hardware (Nintendo Switch 2)
Digital distribution platforms
Entertainment software
Consumers benefit from expanded JRPG options with dual releases catering to both action and turn-based preferences. Multi-platform availability (Switch 2, PS5, Xbox, PC) increases accessibility. Free demo lowers entry barriers for potential buyers.
Demonstrates continued viability of niche gaming genres in competitive market. May influence other publishers' portfolio diversification strategies. Platform exclusivity decisions (demo vs. full release) reflect evolving digital distribution negotiations.