New to series: Should I play Ni no Kuni 1 first?

[ALIEN CAT]

I played a lot of JRPGs but I'm new to this franchise and I have absolutely 0 idea of the Ni no Kuni™ series.

I want to buy Ni no Kuni™ II: Revenant Kingdom now because it's on sale, but is the story of Ni no Kuni™ II: Revenant Kingdom connected to the story of Ni no Kuni 1?

Should I play and finish Ni no Kuni 1 first?

Also what is the average playing hours of this game from start to finish? assuming I'm not a completionist (aka. Achievement Hunter)

[B l u e b e r r y P o p t a r t]

You can play 1 or 2 first, there is nothing except a few references in 2 that are from 1 (like a name). Other than that and a few small things they are separate games.

I don't like to go on how long a game is because everyone plays at different levels and gets everything done in their own time, if I had to guess 25-35h. I put 400+ h into it because I like to farm and get things done and even played it again.

[ALIEN CAT]

Originally posted by B l u e b e r r y P o p t a r t:

You can play 1 or 2 first, there is nothing except a few references in 2 that are from 1 (like a name). Other than that and a few small things they are separate games.

Is it similar to Final Fantasy series

[B l u e b e r r y P o p t a r t]

Originally posted by ALIEN CAT:

Originally posted by B l u e b e r r y P o p t a r t:

You can play 1 or 2 first, there is nothing except a few references in 2 that are from 1 (like a name). Other than that and a few small things they are separate games.

Is it similar to Final Fantasy series

I guess you can use that comparison but with much fewer games. But most of them don't take place in the same universe. But some games have sequels or prequels.

[TheRealRws]

Personally the most notable difference between the two games is the amount of ghibli inspiration. 1 has alot more ghibli vibes than 2 in my opinion. And 2 is about 35 hours long.

They have their own unique combat and gimmics but i like 1 more.

[EolSunder]

its not like final fantasy. Its a good game to get on sale but the 2nd half of the game is kind of boring it turns into a big fetch quest and you'll eventually just go "ok i'm going to finish the game, bored with quests, running back and forth everywhere, playing with a town for no more reason, etc". so good first half, boring 2nd half.

[enterthelight13]

Yes, you should. Both games are independent of each other but play differently. Although there is no specific reason to play part one first, I would probably op to because it's a fantastic game (equally to part two) and the graphics are still fantastic. You would not regret playing the first part and then still get to enjoy the second.

[Tr0w]

Originally posted by ALIEN CAT:

Originally posted by B l u e b e r r y P o p t a r t:

You can play 1 or 2 first, there is nothing except a few references in 2 that are from 1 (like a name). Other than that and a few small things they are separate games.

Is it similar to Final Fantasy series

Not really, FF titles don't take place in the same world with the same cities. Also Evan is a descendant of King Tom from the first game, and the trial of knowledge is all about Oliver and the gang.