Best Order to Play the Bravely Default Games

Bravely is one of the best JRPG series from Square Enix in recent memory. This line holds true to the turn-based, job-centric roots of the company well. But there is some confusion when it comes to the best order to play the Bravely Default games. After all, some of the names are a bit misleading, but there is a best order you should use.

Bravely Default: Flying Fairy or Its HD Remaster

It is finally happening. An HD Remaster of the beloved 3DS JRPG that kicked off this entire series is coming to the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5, 2025, which is the same date as its launch day. It’s also available on the 3DS. If you can wait to start this series until then, that is your best bet. You will see much smoother graphics for the first title, plus some neat quality-of-life features. This is where the series began, so it is best to start here.

Bravely Second: End Layer

The second game in this series is a direct sequel to the original. No matter what you do, you should not play this 3DS title before the aforementioned experience. You will miss out on so much that matters in this game, including most importantly, the cast of characters. I will admit, too, that there are some pacing and gameplay issues with this sequel. As such, it is not the best place to start.

While I wouldn’t say to ever skip this game if you love this series, it is better to play after you experience the first game since it is a slightly lesser experience. Unfortunately for now, you will have to play the original 3DS version since it is stuck on that platform.

Bravely Default 2

You could theoretically start with this Nintendo Switch game. Yeah, I know the name is confusing, but it sort of sits as its own standalone experience. It is fully 3D with a new cast of characters and plenty of new jobs to unlock and switch between.

It has fantastic quality-of-life features and looks pretty great, too. It is also the most accessible, being available on multiple platforms. That said, if you can play this after its two predecessors, you will get the most out of your experience this way.

Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster releases for Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5, 2025.