Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster Brings Strategy to Switch

Okay, so here’s a story for ya. PAX East 2025 was buzzing — like, actually buzzing — and I’m standing there realizing something kinda wild. Never played Bravely Default on the 3DS. Yeah, I know, it’s like admitting I’ve never tried pizza or something. Everyone’s been raving about this RPG, saying it’s right up there with Final Fantasy. So, Square Enix drops this surprise demo of Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster, and boom, here I am with zero context but a fresh pair of eyes.

First off, no dual screens anymore, right? Kind of a bummer. But wow, those graphics — like someone took all the pixels and ironed them out, super smooth. They revamped the UI too, and — oh man — I asked this Square Enix rep if they’re thinking about giving the sequel the same treatment. She kinda dodged, but I swear, maybe she’s just trying to keep secrets. Or I’m imagining things. Who knows?

Now, let’s talk about this demo. Picture it: a timer ticking, pressure’s on, and I’m skipping through dialogue like my life depends on it. Finally, I dive into the combat. Let me tell ya, it’s not your average RPG fight scene. There’s this whole Brave and Default thing going on. You can go all out attacking with Brave, but here’s the catch — you’re wide open for a counterattack after. And then Default’s like, playin’ it cool, saving up those moves for a bigger punch later. Could I resist going all-out Brave? Nope. Not even a little. I was like a bull in a china shop, hoping my luck wouldn’t run out.

And jobs? Oh, right — the game’s got this job system everyone seems to be hyped about. Didn’t mess with that in the demo, but it sounds cool, I guess.

So, here’s me, late to the Bravely Default party, still having a blast. By the way, if you missed it on the 3DS like I did, no worries. This remaster is your ticket on a time machine but better. Catch it when it hits Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5, the same day the console comes out. Trust me, worth it.