Platforms:
Nintendo Switch & PC (2023 re-release)
PlayStation Vita (Japan only, 2016)
PlayStation 4 (Worldwide, 2017)
Genre: Monster Raising RPG / Open-World Adventure
Developer: B.B. Studio
Publisher: Bandai Namco Entertainment
Story Overview
You play as a high school student who gets transported into the Digital World, which is now in crisis due to the rampaging Machinedramon. With the help of two partner Digimon, your task is to uncover the source of this chaos, rebuild the city of Floatia, and restore balance to the Digital World.
Unlike previous entries where you had one Digimon partner, here you raise and battle with two simultaneously, adding complexity to the training and combat systems.
Gameplay Core Loop
Explore the Digital World
Battle wild Digimon and bosses
Train your Digimon partners
Rebuild the city by recruiting Digimon
Manage food, rest, discipline, and bathroom needs (yes, it’s back!)
Evolve (Digivolve) your Digimon through stats, bonds, and lifespan
Main Mechanics
Partner System
- You start with two Rookie-level Digimon.
- You raise both of them simultaneously: feed, train, scold/praise, and bond.
- They evolve based on stat thresholds, weight, care mistakes, and other factors.
- If they reach Mega level, they can become extremely powerful.
- Each Digimon has a limited lifespan, eventually dying and being reincarnated.
Training
- Use the training hall to boost stats like Strength, Speed, HP, MP, etc.
- Day-night cycles and weather affect performance.
- Properly balancing rest and training is key to reaching better evolution paths.
Battle System
- Real-time combat where Digimon auto-attack, and you issue commands.
- You build Order Power (OP) to perform powerful skills or tag-team moves.
- Positioning, timing, and synergy between partners matter in tougher fights.
City Building (Floatia)
- You recruit Digimon from across the world to return to the city.
- Each Digimon unlocks or upgrades facilities: shops, training halls, fishing spots, etc.
- The city visually upgrades and becomes more populated over time.
Digivolution System
Use the Digivolution Dojo to preview or influence evolution lines.
Over 230 Digimon available.
Branching evolution paths similar to Digimon World 1, but more complex.
You must meet multiple criteria to unlock stronger forms (e.g. stats, bonds, discipline).
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Dual Partner System | Manage two Digimon at once – each with their own needs and evolutions. |
| 230+ Digimon | Including many from all generations up to Digimon Fusion. |
| Fully 3D Open World | Roam areas like deserts, volcanoes, forests, and icy mountains. |
| Dynamic Digivolution | Every evolution path feels earned and unique. |
Tips for New Tamers
- Respect the Life Cycle: Digimon WILL die eventually — focus on improving your next generation.
- Use the Tamer Skills: Invest in the skill tree early to boost training efficiency, OP gain, and care skills.
- Plan Your Evolutions: Use the Tamer Notebook to track hints and evolution conditions.
- Recruit Early: The more Digimon you bring to Floatia, the faster your gameplay options expand.
- Save Often: Time and decisions matter — one bad evolution can make your team weaker.
Reception & Legacy
Limited voice acting and story depth
Praised for:
Deep and nostalgic monster-raising gameplay
Strategic dual combat system
Vast Digivolution variety
Gorgeous environments
Criticized for:
Repetitive training cycles
Steep difficulty early on
Despite those critiques, Next Order is considered a spiritual successor to Digimon World 1, and the best option for players who love classic-style Digimon raising with modern polish.
Digimon World: Next Order is a love letter to long-time fans, especially those who enjoyed the original Digimon World on PS1. Its complex systems, meaningful progression, and emotional lifecycle mechanics give players an immersive and rewarding Digimon experience — especially if you’re looking for something beyond the typical JRPG or monster collector formula.