Square Enix apologizes for Octopath Traveler shortages

Square Enix’s latest role-playing game, Octopath Traveler, just landed on Nintendo Switch. While a throwback, pixel-art JRPG doesn’t usually scream gangbusters, the game has become an immediate hit and store copies have become difficult to find. If you don’t have a physical copy your mitts already, you might have to sit on those hands. The game is facing some very dire stock issues.

Square Enix’s latest role-playing game, Octopath Traveler, just landed on Nintendo Switch. While a throwback, pixel-art JRPG doesn’t usually scream gangbusters, the game has become an immediate hit and store copies have become difficult to find. If you don’t have a physical copy your mitts already, you might have to sit on those hands. The game is facing some very dire stock issues.

The game is currently on back order, with stock not expected to replenish for one to two months. The shortage isn’t only in the west. Low quantities are being seen in Japan, with Square Enix’s Japanese Twitter account apologizing to fans. The post suggests that prospective players should purchase the game digitally or pick up a digital download card if they can’t wait. 

The game released last Friday, July 13, to positive reviews praising its unique aesthetic, deep gameplay, and nostalgic riffs on yesteryear JRPG trappings. It has revived feelings from many players for Square Enix’s older SaGa games. Aside from apologies, Square Enix Japan’s social media crew are celebrating other deeper cuts this week, like the 20th anniversary of Brave Fencer Musashi.

Nintendo hasn’t yet offered an official statement on the Octopath Traveler shortage, but hopefully the issue is resolved soon. The Octopath Traveler: Wayfarer’s Edition is the physical version to seek out, though it appears to be selling out across the board as well. This version contains a pop-up book, two-sided cloth map, soundtrack CD, and replica coin all packaged in astorybook keepsake box.