How would you answer the question, “Are Dragon Quest I & II a masterpiece or a trash game?”
The long-awaited HD-2D remake of “Dragon Quest I & II” is set to arrive on October 30, 2025.
With a multi-platform release across Switch 2, PS5, Xbox, Steam, and more, the big topic is “Will both longtime fans and newcomers enjoy it?”—and expectations are mixed with a bit of anxiety.
In this article, we’ll thoroughly cover the latest info on “Dragon Quest I & II,” its pros and cons, reactions on social media, and recommended related titles!
Will this game be a “masterpiece” or a “trash game”? Let’s make a prediction and get to the truth.
- What is Dragon Quest I & II?
- Release date, price, platforms, genre, and publisher for Dragon Quest I & II
- The strengths of Dragon Quest I & II
- The weaknesses of Dragon Quest I & II
- FAQ for Dragon Quest I & II
- Settings, environment, and peripherals to maximize enjoyment
- Must-check titles for Dragon Quest I & II fans: related works & recommended masterpieces
- Dragon Quest I & II vs. LIVE A LIVE: which should you buy?
- Hopes and worries from social media
- Are Dragon Quest I & II a masterpiece or a trash game? (Conclusion)
What is Dragon Quest I & II?
“Dragon Quest I & II” is a modern HD-2D remake of the original “Dragon Quest” (released in 1986) and “Dragon Quest II: Luminaries of the Legendary Line” (released in 1987) for the Famicom.
This title leverages Square Enix’s HD-2D technology to revive these classics with gorgeous visuals that blend pixel art and 3D.
As the opening entries of the “Erdrick Trilogy,” these two games hold an extremely important position in the history of Japanese RPGs as the origin of the series, and this remake is expected to deliver their charm to a new generation of players.
Overview and placement in the series
Dragon Quest I features a simple story of a Hero defeating the Demon Lord and rescuing the Princess, while establishing foundational elements like “leveling up,” “command battles,” and “field exploration.”
The sequel, Dragon Quest II, introduced a party system with multiple characters and is a pivotal work that laid the groundwork for the series’ evolution.
In this remake, these two titles are combined into a single, content-rich package.
The appeal and features of the HD-2D remake
The biggest highlight is the visual overhaul using the “HD-2D” technique refined in titles like Octopath Traveler.
While preserving the flavor of pixel art, it adds realistic lighting and a sense of depth to deliver a brand-new Dragon Quest experience.
Additionally, the BGM has been rearranged, SE improved, and controls refined, allowing you to enjoy that “nostalgic yet new” feeling.
In this way, Dragon Quest I & II aims to fuse the “core of classic RPGs” with “modern playability.”
Release date, price, platforms, genre, and publisher for Dragon Quest I & II
“Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake” is a highly anticipated title slated for release on Thursday, 2025/10/30.
Coming nearly 40 years after the originals, this remake draws attention for its supported platforms, pricing, publisher, and more.
Here, we’ll organize the key “release info” and “platform” basics you should check before buying.
Release date, price, and package info
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | 2025/10/30 (Thu) |
| Suggested Retail Price | Physical: 7,480 yen (tax included) Download: 6,980 yen (tax included) |
| Pre-order Bonuses | Original soundtrack DL code, limited “Hero’s Emblem-style” sticker, etc. (varies by retailer) |
Some retailers (AEON, Lawson, HMV, etc.) plan to offer limited bonus sets, so it’s smart to compare bonus content when pre-ordering.
Supported hardware and genre details
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Platforms | Switch2 / Nintendo Switch / PlayStation 5 / Xbox Series X|S / Steam (PC) |
| Genre | Role-Playing (HD-2D RPG) |
| Players | 1 (offline only) |
| Publisher / Developer | Square Enix Co., Ltd. |
While graphics and scenario adhere to the originals, the UI and systems are said to feature modern quality-of-life improvements, making it a reassuring experience for veteran RPG fans.
The strengths of Dragon Quest I & II
“Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake” draws attention not just as a nostalgic recreation but also for its completeness as a modern game.
Below, we’ll explain two standout strengths that are particularly well-received.
Stunning HD-2D graphics
The top attraction is its unique visual expression leveraging HD-2D technology.
While characters retain their 2D pixel look, backgrounds are treated with perspective and lighting, blending nostalgia with freshness.
- Enhances visual immersion without losing the original atmosphere
- Day–night cycles and city lights shine with flair
- The coarseness of pixels is designed to read as “character”
Iconic locations like the Castle of Tantegel (Radatome) and the Dragonlord’s Castle are breathtakingly remade, which will move fans of the originals.
Storytelling that respects the originals
It avoids the common remake pitfall of “changing too much,” carefully recreating the original scenarios and direction.
The text retains period-appropriate phrasing with subtle tweaks for readability, delivering presentation that firmly preserves the “Dragon Quest feel.”
- Iconic lines like “I hope you had a good time last night” are intact
- Key events have good pacing that keeps players engaged
- BGM and sound effects are high-quality arrangements that exude love for the source
With added motion in the presentation, emotions and the thrill of adventure are conveyed more intuitively, which is another highlight.
The weaknesses of Dragon Quest I & II
While “Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake” has many appealing elements, some users have expressed concerns.
Here, we dig into two areas frequently pointed out as having room for improvement.
Possibility that old systems remain
Because it’s faithful to the originals, some aspects may feel “inconvenient” by modern standards.
Common concerns include the following:
- Few save points: If it doesn’t support save-anywhere, pacing may suffer
- High encounter rate: Recreating the old specs could become a stressor
- Movement speed and UI: Even with HD-2D, the feel might seem dated
In particular, balancing in “II” is tough and demands old-school trial and error, which could be a barrier for newcomers.
Gripes with certain UI and presentation elements
Despite the improved visuals, some feel menu operations and battle presentation are “sluggish.”
Anticipated feedback includes:
- Poor battle animation tempo: The rhythm undermines combat enjoyment
- Lack of skip options for dialogue/events: Not ideal for replays
- Hard-to-read fonts: Certain users may find the typography uncomfortable
These issues could be improved with post-launch patches or user settings, but they directly affect early impressions and thus have a big impact on evaluations.
FAQ for Dragon Quest I & II
We’ve compiled answers to common questions and concerns about “Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake” in a Q&A format.
Before purchase, check these key points on specs, link features, and overall volume.
Q: How does saving work? Do saves link between I and II?
A: The game is planned to support both autosave and manual saves.
Prioritizing HD-2D convenience, it’s said you can save at your preferred timing.
Also, save data from I and II will have linking elements, as officially announced.
For example, if you complete certain events in I, you can obtain bonus items early in II—an exciting incentive for completionists.
Q: What about total playtime? Is it too short?
A: As for volume, “I” is expected to take about 5–8 hours, and “II” about 15–20 hours.
In total, you can expect around 20–30 hours or more of playtime, which seems reasonable for the price.
There are also features like a monster compendium, achievements, hidden items, and link events, so players who love to dig deep should be satisfied.
Q: Is there a difficulty option? Is it beginner-friendly?
A: This remake is planned to include difficulty options like “Normal” and “Easy.”
Because II has long been called “unreasonably hard,” it’s said to feature balancing for modern players.
Expect features that support smooth play like faster leveling, encounter adjustments, and hint displays.
Settings, environment, and peripherals to maximize enjoyment
“Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake” is a multi-platform title playable on both consoles and PC.
Therefore, your setup can greatly affect your experience. Here are settings and peripherals to enhance comfort and immersion.
Recommended display settings and sound environment
Display settings are key to making the most of HD-2D’s beauty.
- Resolution: Ideally a 4K display. Background depth especially benefits
- HDR support: Turning HDR on makes day–night and lighting effects more lifelike
- Audio: Headphones or a 5.1ch speaker setup recommended; pairs great with orchestral arrangements
Because HD-2D shines with subtle light and shadow, the optimal combo is playing in a dark room + a high-contrast display.
Recommended peripherals by playstyle
Choosing peripherals suited to your platform improves comfort and control for deeper immersion.
| Playstyle | Recommended peripherals |
|---|---|
| Switch2 / Switch (handheld) | HORI grip Joy-Cons, blue-light cut film |
| PS5 / Xbox Series X | Controllers with back paddles, high-speed HDMI cable |
| Steam (PC) | Gaming monitor (144Hz+ recommended), XInput-compatible gamepad |
Also, for long sessions, consider an ergonomic gaming chair and wrist supports.
By optimizing your environment, your immersion in Dragon Quest’s world will increase dramatically.
Must-check titles for Dragon Quest I & II fans: related works & recommended masterpieces
If you enjoy “Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake,” here are related titles and similarly compelling “masterpieces” carefully selected for you.
Beyond the next entries in the Erdrick saga, don’t miss other works that showcase HD-2D’s visual splendor.
Erdrick Trilogy: Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake (scheduled for 2026)
Scheduled for release in 2026, “Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake” is the conclusion to the “Erdrick Legend” following I & II.
Chronologically, it precedes I and reveals “the truth of the Hero Erdrick.”
- Uses HD-2D visuals like this title
- Deeper job-change system and party-building
- Further evolution expected, like faster battles and added voice work
After playing I & II, this is a must.
Octopath Traveler series (Switch / Steam / PS)
The seminal HD-2D hits “Octopath Traveler” and “Octopath Traveler II” pair wonderfully with Dragon Quest fans.
- Eight protagonists’ individual stories are richly portrayed
- Command battles with excellent weakness mechanics
- Music, direction, and UI are highly acclaimed
Highly recommended if you like HD-2D and story-driven RPGs.
LIVE A LIVE (HD-2D Remake)
The classic RPG “LIVE A LIVE” was brilliantly revived in 2022 with HD-2D.
Featuring an omnibus structure across multiple eras, it’s a unique masterpiece delivering high satisfaction in compact stories.
- Strategic grid-based combat
- Music and direction fully refreshed for each era and character
- Short but dense storytelling
Take this chance to experience standout works that make the most of HD-2D as an expressive style.
Dragon Quest I & II vs. LIVE A LIVE: which should you buy?
Both are classic RPGs reborn with HD-2D, but “Dragon Quest I & II” and “LIVE A LIVE” differ greatly in gameplay and feel.
Here, we compare their features to help you pick what suits you best.
Gameplay differences
| Aspect | Dragon Quest I & II | LIVE A LIVE |
|---|---|---|
| Genre | Classic turn-based RPG | Omnibus-style tactical RPG |
| Structure | Two long-form stories in one package | Seven short stories + extras |
| Growth | Leveling, equipment, and spells | Progression freedom varies by character |
| Battle system | Traditional command battles | Grid-based strategic battles |
Dragon Quest shines with “a royal road of adventure and growth,” while LIVE A LIVE stands out for “diverse worlds and surprising twists.”
Differences in presentation and graphics
Both employ HD-2D, but their directorial approaches differ.
- Dragon Quest I & II: Warm, nostalgic fantasy presentation; beautiful lighting for day and night
- LIVE A LIVE: Bold shifts in color and style by era, delivering constant surprises
Their BGM also differs: Dragon Quest favors weighty symphonic arrangements, while LIVE A LIVE features eclectic, genre-spanning tracks.
Which should you buy?
If you want a long, leisurely adventure, go with “Dragon Quest I & II.”
If you prefer a brisk pace with short stories and presentation-heavy thrills, pick “LIVE A LIVE.”
Either way, both are excellent showcases of HD-2D and deliver strong value for the price.
Hopes and worries from social media
Since the HD-2D remake was announced, fans on social networks and forums have voiced both excitement and concerns.
Whether this title achieves both “a return to roots” and “fresh evolution” remains under close watch.
Common hopes
- “I’m so happy to play it again in HD-2D!”
- “The Erdrick legend linking to III is irresistible for series fans.”
- “Can’t wait to hear how the iconic lines and music are arranged!”
- “II was super hard back then, so I hope it’s more approachable now.”
Common worries
- “I’m uneasy because there’s little in-depth info in the trailers.”
- “Concerned the UI and pacing might feel sluggish.”
- “If they replicate the old balance as-is, it could be rough.”
- “I want to make sure they didn’t make weird changes in the remake.”
Overall, while fans expect “beautiful HD-2D” and “respect for series traditions,” they remain cautious about the pace of information before release and any “unexpected changes” unique to remakes.
Are Dragon Quest I & II a masterpiece or a trash game? (Conclusion)
“Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake” is expected to be highly rated for its completeness as a remake, its respect for the originals, and the balance of modern refinements.
Here, we’ll score the game across five parameters to predict whether it’s a “masterpiece” or “trash.”
Five evaluation parameters and scores
| Category | Details | Score (out of 20) |
|---|---|---|
| Graphics & Direction | World recreated with HD-2D; among the series’ most beautiful | 19 |
| Story & Structure | Original-faithful + link features; simple yet flavorful | 17 |
| Systems & Usability | Pacing and UI improvements are key; some concerns remain | 15 |
| Volume & Replay | Two games + achievements; worth the price | 18 |
| Originality & Innovation | Fusion of nostalgia and modernity; could read as conservative | 16 |
Overall Score: 85 / 100
Summary: The beauty of HD-2D, respect for the originals, and solid systems shine.
While there are some worries about certain system aspects, given the trust in the “Dragon Quest” IP and the remake’s craftsmanship, a masterpiece-leaning verdict is reasonable.
Even players used to modern RPGs will be able to rediscover the allure and depth of retro RPGs with this one.
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