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The HD-2D art brings new life to the classic Dragon Quest games.
Quality-of-life changes make the gameplay smoother and faster.
A great entry point for newcomers and a nostalgic trip for fans.
The beloved Dragon Quest series is back with a stunning HD-2D remake of the iconic classics, Dragon Quest 1 & 2. This rebirth perfectly blends nostalgia with modern design, resulting in a truly fabulous experience. As games that helped shape the JRPG genre, the question remains: do they still hold up today? Let's dive in and find out.
The first thing players generally notice is the visuals of the game. Square Enix has used the HD-2D visual style. It is the same style used in Octopath Traveler and Live A Live. The result is stunning. Characters are 2D sprites, but the environments have depth and lighting. Towns glow at night. Caves look dark and dangerous.
The original Dragon Quest games were renowned for their simple mechanics, but this remake is upholding that legacy with new and clever upgrades.
Battles are faster. The UI is cleaner. Players can now save anywhere, which helps with pacing. There's also auto-battle, useful for grinding.
Movement feels smoother. Menus are easier to navigate. And some new mini quests have been added to make exploration more rewarding.
These quality-of-life improvements make a big difference without changing the heart of the games.
These games don’t have deep twists. However, they are loved by a lot of people.
In Dragon Quest 1, the player performs the role of a lonely hero who is on a mission to save the kingdom.
Dragon Quest 2 adds more depth to the story. Now players can control a party and explore a larger world.
The charm lies in the writing. It's lighthearted, yet sincere. The dialogue is funny in places, but always feels honest.
The soundtrack has been re-orchestrated. Fans will hear familiar tunes with a richer sound. Each area theme feels warm and nostalgic.
Sound effects are also crisper. From menu clicks to spell casting, every audio detail feels updated while staying true to the original.
Also read: Dragon’s Dogma 2
There are no major complaints in the Dragon Quest remake review, but still, some players wish for added story content.
Additionally, players expecting deep JRPG mechanics or cinematic storytelling are finding this story underwhelming.
But for those who love classic RPGs, that’s exactly what makes it work.
Since its release, the remake has been well received. According to Famitsu, the game scored 34/40, with high marks for visuals and nostalgia.
Online forums are praising the balance between old and new. Many call it the best way to experience these classic titles in 2025.
This remake is perfect for:
Fans of the original games are looking for a polished experience
New players curious about the roots of JRPGs
Anyone who loved Octopath Traveler and wants more HD-2D style games
Also read: Ninja Gaiden 4 vs Ninja Gaiden 2 Remake: What to Expect?
Dragon Quest 1 & 2 HD-2D Remake is succeeding where it matters, and additionally, it respects the legacy of the originals while improving the gaming experience of current or new players. The visuals of this game are stunning. The updates are smart.
