Where to start in Octopath Traveler 2 may seem like a difficult question, especially if you played the first game where some of the starting classes made life more difficult than it needed to be. Fortunately, the classes and characters of Octopath Traveler 2 are more balanced, so you can choose any character that interests you. RPG. However, there are some whose stories begin with a strong narrative push or have a greater use in combat.
This guide explains which character to start with in Octopath Traveler 2 and which path to take after the first chapter.
Where to start in Octopath Traveler 2
The opening chapters of Octopath Traveler 2 are more evenly balanced than the first game, so you’re not at a disadvantage no matter who you start with.
The best story to start in Octopath 2
If you want a story that starts with a strong hook and stays interesting throughout, your best options are Partitio, Throné, Ochette, or Temenos.
Partitio’s story may begin as a simple merchant’s tale about an intrepid adventurer looking for an opportunity to make money, but it quickly becomes something more serious and complex. His desire to eradicate poverty is a fascinating look at capitalism and the duty that Partizio believes people have to each other.
Tron’s narrative eschews optimism in favor of a closer look at the dark side of the world and oppressed people. It’s a tense story, but it’s also consistently strong throughout the game.
Ochette has one of the most interesting first chapters, with a mixture of heavy themes and light-hearted optimism, as well as a unique twist to the in-game economy. Her story also offers a different perspective on the story of Octopath 2 and the larger story that unites the eight heroes.
Finally, Temenos, a priest whose hobby is making people question their faith. Temenos takes on the role of inquisitor of the church, but soon discovers that it is not the unbelievers who pose the greatest threat.
The best Octopath 2 starting character for combat
Every class can handle Octopath 2, but Oswald, Occhett, and Hikari make your early battles a lot easier.
Oswald’s class perk allows him to determine an enemy’s weakness when a battle begins. Even if he can’t cover these weaknesses, his spells target every enemy on the field, making him ideal for dealing with persistent enemies and stronger night mobs.
Regardless of which companion animal you choose for Ochett, she can automatically target an enemy’s physical or magical weakness by summoning them. In addition, Occhett can capture and summon monsters, many of which have multi-target attacks and some with healing skills to support Occhett during tough battles.
Hikari starts off with a sword attack that hits multiple enemies, and while his spear attacks are only single-target at first, you can learn a powerful skill that makes even bosses easier. His counter attack skill reduces the damage he takes and then automatically hits the attacking enemy and reduces their shield point by one, regardless of their weakness.
Which path to choose in Octopath Traveler 2
After choosing your starting character, the next step is up to you. The first chapter of each character has a recommended level of one and they are located in low level areas that you can access at any time with no problem. Both continents have ports roughly in the center, so you can access the other side of the world at any point.
Once you clear the first eight sections, you’ll have a slightly clearer structure. The second sections for each contain recommended levels that make it easier to decide where to go next. For example, the second chapter of Throné has an event on the eastern continent with a recommended level in the 30s, while an event on the western continent has a much lower level.
If you want to choose the most effective path, the ideal way is to choose a character that would cover the weaknesses of your starting character. Those who specialize in magic should team up with a melee character, for example.
It would look something like this:
- Oswald: Partitio, Ochette or Hikari
- Temenos: Oswald, Hikari or Partizio
- Throne: Oswald, Ockett or Castty
- Count: Oswald, Kastti or Hikari
- Castes: Oswald or Hikari
- Hikari: Temenos, Oswald or Kastti
- Partition: Oswald or Tron
- Agnea: Oswald or Oschett
If you need more help getting started, check out our Octopath Traveler 2 tips for beginners before leaving.
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