The Dragon Quest series is iconic in the world of JRPGs, and the highly anticipated Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake delivers on its promise of visual splendor. However, it also introduces modern adjustments that, while well-intentioned, may disrupt immersion for certain players.
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Originally released in 1988 on the Famicom, Dragon Quest III is often hailed as a masterpiece of the genre. It was groundbreaking for its time, introducing a flexible class system and a sprawling world filled with memorable characters and a gripping narrative. The announcement of an HD-2D remake for next-generation platforms immediately captured the attention of fans. Using the HD-2D aesthetic popularized by titles like Octopath Traveler and Triangle Strategy, Square Enix sought to reinvigorate this beloved classic for both longtime fans and new players.
The game’s storyline follows the journey of a young hero destined to defeat the archfiend Baramos and uncover their true lineage. The story retains its timeless charm, blending adventurous themes with heartfelt moments. It’s an emotionally rewarding tale that never feels outdated, standing as a testament to why Dragon Quest remains beloved across generations.
While Dragon Quest III is largely lighthearted, it doesn’t shy away from serious themes, such as sacrifice, morality, and the hero’s burden. These themes are tackled with appropriate subtlety, never veering into overly controversial territory. This careful balance makes the narrative appealing to a wide range of players, from younger audiences to seasoned JRPG enthusiasts.
One of the standout features of this remake is the voice acting, which adds a new dimension to the characters. Toby Laurence (Fire Emblem Engage) voices Hero (Appearance A), while Jenna Sharpe (Bravely Default II) lends her talents to Hero (Appearance B). Both deliver nuanced performances that breathe life into the protagonist, enhancing the emotional depth of key story moments. This addition helps modernize the narrative while staying true to its roots.
The music and sound design in Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake are exceptional. Koichi Sugiyama’s original compositions have been reorchestrated with modern sensibilities, retaining their magic while delivering a richer auditory experience. Iconic tracks like Adventure set the stage for exploration with their lively tempos and triumphant melodies, while Heavenly Flight offers a serene, almost ethereal experience that perfectly accompanies the more emotional moments of the game. The sound design complements the gameplay with subtle ambient noises that immerse the player further into the world.
Visually, Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake is breathtaking. The blend of 2D sprites with 3D environments creates a captivating aesthetic that feels both nostalgic and modern. One particularly stunning vista is the town of Aliahan at dusk, where the setting sun bathes the world in golden hues, reflecting on the water and casting long shadows. Such moments draw players into the world, proving that cutting-edge graphics are not always necessary when the art direction is this strong. Beautifully designed worlds and compelling storytelling are more than enough to captivate players.
Gameplay mechanics remain faithful to the original while incorporating modern conveniences. Square Enix has lightened the load on combat, allowing players to adjust battle speed and offering difficulty options, such as “Casual Mode,” where players cannot die. These features cater to newcomers who may prioritize story over challenge. The menus and UI remain largely unchanged, staying true to the original’s design. While nostalgic for fans of classic JRPGs, this decision might feel clunky or disted to players accustomed to streamlined modern interfaces.
However, no remake is without controversy, and Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake is no exception. One major change is the removal of gender selection. Players now choose between “Appearance A” and “Appearance B,” with all NPCs referring to the protagonist using they/them pronouns. While this aims to be inclusive, it inadvertently limits representation, as players cannot distinctly identify as male or female. This change feels especially awkward when equipping gender-specific armor, such as dresses or helmets, as the visual representations clash with the broader narrative choices.
Furthermore, some characters have been redesigned to appear more gender-ambiguous, and certain elements of Akira Toriyama’s original artwork have been altered. Toriyama, the legendary artist behind Dragon Ball and much of the Dragon Quest series’ signature style, is a major draw for fans. Censoring or modifying his designs has understandably upset purists, as it feels like a deviation from the original creative vision. While inclusivity is an irable goal, these changes risk alienating long-time fans who cherish the artistry of Toriyama’s work.
Despite these concerns, Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake is a remarkable game in many respects. It revitalizes a classic with stunning visuals, a faithful yet enhanced soundtrack, and modern quality-of-life improvements that make it accessible to a broader audience. For JRPG enthusiasts, it’s a must-play, and for newcomers, it’s a fantastic introduction to one of the genre’s most iconic titles.
However, for die-hard fans of Akira Toriyama or those who deeply value the original’s authenticity, these creative decisions may be hard to overlook. While the game excels in so many areas, the changes to character representation and design feel like a missed opportunity to fully honor the legacy of this beloved classic. Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake is beautiful, but its cautious approach to modernization may leave some players longing for the purity of the original.
Disclosure: We received a promotional copy of Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake on PS5 from Square Enix for the purposes of this review.