– Advertisement –
The Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake has garnered praise and criticism from both critics and players. Built using Square Enix’s HD-2D aesthetic, similar to Octopath Traveler and Triangle Strategy, this remake aims to bring a beloved classic to modern audiences with enhanced visuals, a revamped soundtrack, and various quality-of-life updates.
What’s new?
The remake completely reimagines the original 8-bit game, introducing vibrant 2D sprites set against richly detailed 3D environments. The game includes a fully orchestrated soundtrack performed by the Tokyo Metropolitan Orchestra, partial voice acting, and significant quality-of-life enhancements such as auto-battle options, combat speed settings, and a memory system for saving NPC hints. New content includes an expanded storyline supervised by Yuji Horii, creator of the Dragon Quest series, as well as additional dungeons and vocations.
What Could have been
The Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake succeeds in blending nostalgia with modern enhancements, creating a product that feels both faithful and fresh. The HD-2D aesthetic is undoubtedly the star of the show, providing a stunning visual upgrade that elevates the game’s world while maintaining its charm. From shimmering water effects to dynamic lighting in dungeons, the game’s art direction breathes new life into the original design. Additionally, the orchestral soundtrack beautifully complements the visuals, delivering a powerful auditory experience that enhances both exploration and combat.
The quality-of-life features, such as a mini-map, combat speed settings, and auto-battle, make the gameplay more accessible without compromising its RPG roots. The memory system, which allows you to save lines of NPC dialogue, is a particularly thoughtful addition for players who enjoy solving quests independently but want the option to revisit important hints.
That said, the lack of character animations during combat feels like a missed opportunity. While the first-person perspective is a faithful nod to the original, the static battle sequences feel underwhelming compared to modern RPG standards. Including a toggle between classic and dynamic views could have satisfied purists and new players alike.
The price point, while high, is reflective of the effort put into the visual and audio enhancements. However, players may find the value proposition less compelling compared to other RPGs in the HD-2D line-up.
Final thoughts
The Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake is a stunning tribute to one of the most influential RPGs of all time. While not without its flaws, it successfully captures the heart of the original while offering a polished, modern experience. Fans of the series and newcomers with an appreciation for retro-inspired games will likely find this remake a worthy addition. However, for those seeking a more action-packed or dynamically animated experience, the game may not fully meet expectations. With its rich legacy and careful modernization, this remake strikes a delicate balance between honouring the past and embracing the present.
