Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake: A Modern Revival of a Classic RPG
I was first able to play Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake during Anime Expo 2024, but it just wasn’t enough. Thankfully, there are more gaming events, which led us to get more time with an updated build during PAX West 2024. From the opening moments of the adventure, I was immediately hit with a wave of nostalgia after witnessing the opening scene. The updated visuals and modernized gameplay elements offer a fresh take on a beloved title, all while staying true to the charm that has kept fans hooked for decades.
The HD-2D art style blends nostalgia with modern aesthetics, making each environment feel fresh yet familiar.
HD-2D Art Style: Blending the Old and New
The HD-2D art style, which many might recognize from Octopath Traveler, impresses me every time I see this game. The mix of pixel art with modern lighting and effects creates a unique visual experience that feels new and familiar. The environments pop with detail, and the character sprites, while simplistic, carry a certain warmth and charm that suits the game’s tone well.
Classic Turn-Based Combat With Modern Touches
Gameplay-wise, Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake doesn’t stray far from the original. It still carries that classic turn-based combat system that long-time fans will appreciate. However, there are some quality-of-life improvements that help streamline the experience, making it more accessible for new players without alienating the veterans. That being said, the game doesn’t hold your hand, and you’ll still need to rely on strategy and a bit of grinding to progress, just like in the old days.
Updated Soundtrack: Nostalgic and New
One of the highlights is the updated soundtrack, which enhances the emotional impact of key moments while retaining the iconic melodies that fans will remember. It’s a respectful nod to the past, with just enough polish to make it stand out in the present.
Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake offers a streamlined experience while retaining the strategic depth that fans love
Challenges and Quality-of-Life Improvements
However, while the remake is impressive, it’s not without its minor hiccups. Some of the older mechanics may seem unappealing to a subset of JRPG fans who don’t enjoy the sudo-2D battles, but the auto-systems worked to modernize the battle flow without taking away from the core system. Regardless, I feel like this is an adventure that every fan of the genre should experience at least once.
A Must-Play JRPG Experience
Overall, Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake successfully walks the fine line between honoring the past and embracing the present. It’s a game that will likely resonate with both long-time fans of the series and newcomers looking for a quality JRPG experience. Whether you’re revisiting Aliahan or exploring it for the first time, there’s plenty here to enjoy.
Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake is coming to PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam and Windows on November 14, 2024.