Bravely Default Demo Hits 3DS In US Today

Today’s a big day for US RPG fans, as the Bravely Default demo finally arrives on the Nintendo 3DS eShop, offering up an exclusive slice of content and several bonuses that will transfer over to the game proper once it releases on Feb. 7.

Already a huge hit in both Japan and Europe, Bravely Default is the latest JRPG from developer Silicon Studio (3D Dot Game Hero) and publisher by Square Enix. Everything from the art style and music to the character models and battle system harkens back to the glory days of the Final Fantasy series, with plenty of unique twists to set this new IP apart from the pack. Based on reviews coming from Japan and Europe, Bravely Default has proven that it is quite possible to teach an old dog new tricks in the realm of RPGs, staying true to genre roots while simultaneously exploring bold new territories.

While Bravely Default doesn’t arrive on US shores until early next month, there’s plenty of reasons to check out today’s demo aside from the fact that it will give you a chance to experience the gameplay firsthand. The demo features a brief side story, one that doesn’t actually appear in the game proper. So that should serve as a nice primer, as well as get you in the mindset for the game and its world before actually diving in to its epic storyline.

And along with that exclusive story content, the hours you pour into the Bravely Default demo won’t go to waste, as quite a bit of content will actually carry over into the regular game. StreetPasses you make with the demo will make the transition, which allow for various in-game stat boosts, like speedier building for your in-game city. You’ll also earn extra citizens for your town in the demo, which also carries over to the main game. And any item packs you purchase or new friends your register with the demo will also make their way into the regular game, meaning there’s plenty of reasons to check out the demo if Bravely Default is already making a big blip on your gaming radar.

Releasing on Feb. 2 for the 3DS, Bravely Default will set you back $39.99 for the regular version or $49.99 for the Collector’s Edition. That bad boy comes with all of the usual trimmings, including a special game box, a soundtrack, art book, augmented reality cards and more. The Collector’s Edition is currently sold out on Amazon, so you might have some trouble tracking down a copy.