Dragon Quest III was originally released back in 1988 on the Nintendo Entertainment System. And, this entry in the series holds a special place in the hearts of fans. Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake revives this classic RPG, combining nostalgia with a fresh new look while staying true to its roots.
For fans of the original, it’s a comforting return to familiar territory. Except, now it has modern enhancements that breathe new life into its visuals and gameplay. Whether you’re drawn in by the legendary Erdrick saga or the updated graphics, Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake is a perfect bridge between past and present.
Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake details
Platform(s): PS5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S and PC
Developer(s): Square Enix, ARTDINK
Publisher(s): Square Enix
Genre: Role-playing
Modes: Single-player
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10+)
Journey through an RPG legacy
In Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake, you step into the shoes of a young hero who sets out to fulfill their father Ortega’s quest to defeat the evil Baramos. Your story begins in the village of Aliahan. And, unfolds across a wide variety of different settings and locations, each with its own unique culture and lore. Every town, enemy, and landscape pulls you into a world filled with adventure and discovery.
The HD-2D style elevates the classic story, adding richness and vibrant colour to every landscape. Dragon Quest III has always been about the journey more than complex plot twists. And, Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake honours that by keeping the story simple yet meaningful. New cutscenes expand character development, allowing a closer connection with the hero’s past and relationships. The result is a timeless story that feels fresh and new, yet respects its roots.
For me, exploring towns like Romaria again felt like uncovering an old family album. I hadn’t realized how much of my early gaming memories were tied to these pixelated places. Revisiting these iconic locations reminded me just how timeless this journey feels.
Strategic combat with modern twists
The turn-based combat in Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake stays true to its roots. It retains the strategic, deliberate nature of the original. Choosing actions at the start of each turn requires you to plan ahead. Especially as you get further into the game and face tougher enemies. The combat offers a rhythm that feels satisfying and nostalgic. It delivers a true old-school RPG experience with a few new quality-of-life features.
Early on, you must build your party at Patty’s Party Planning Place. Here, you can assign different vocations to each character—from classic classes like Warrior and Mage to the recently added Monster Wrangler. This addition opens up more options for customizing your team to suit your playstyle. Later, at level 20, you can switch vocations, allowing each character to carry over abilities from previous classes. This encourages you to experiment to find the right combinations that fit your playstyle.
I remember one particular fight where experimentation paid off. I faced a group of Metal Slimes that I could barely inflict any damage. And, what little damage I did was minimal. I’d just assigned a character the new Monster Wrangler role, so I gave it a shot. Summoning a rare monster ally, I watched as it took down the enemies one by one. Seeing this strategy pay off made the battle exciting and reminded me of the fun in trying new team setups.
Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake also includes options to adjust the battle speed and difficulty. This helps in making the experience accessible whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the game. The mix of classic combat and convenience features creates an experience that feels as welcoming as it is challenging.
HD-2D visuals that honour the original
The visuals in Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake offer a gorgeous reinterpretation of the NES original. Enhancing each town, forest, and dungeon with Square Enix’s signature HD-2D style. Every location is alive with colour and detail, capturing the charm of the original while adding modernizing visuals that feel perfectly suited for this legendary adventure.
Each character and monster is smoothly animated, and Toriyama’s iconic art style shines through with added detail and clarity. Watching classic monsters like slimes and golems come to life brings a nostalgic joy while adding visual flair to every battle.
One of my favourite parts of Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake’s HD-2D graphics came when I was exploring a forest. The trees seemed to sway with the wind, casting subtle shadows on the ground. It made it feel like I was stepping into a world that was both familiar and new. It’s these details that make the HD-2D style so effective, allowing you to relive memories while experiencing the game in an entirely new light.
Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake captures the heart of a classic RPG
Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic RPGs. Its visual updates and thoughtful enhancements make it accessible to everyone. The combination of traditional turn-based combat and modern conveniences creates an experience that feels grounded in the past yet ready for the modern gamer.
For fans, this remake is a chance to reconnect with an iconic RPG that defined the genre. For newcomers, it serves as a gateway into the rich history of Dragon Quest. The HD-2D visuals enhance every part of the journey, from towns to challenging dungeons, making it a joy to explore.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stunning HD-2D visuals enhance the classic look. | Difficulty level can be uneven in parts. |
| Modern updates make it accessible to new players. | Slow pacing may not appeal to everyone. |
| Faithful to the original story and gameplay. | Story lacks depth compared to modern RPGs. |
| Nostalgic charm appeals to long-time fans. |
Overall assessment of Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake
Gameplay: 4.5/5
Graphics: 5/5
Sound: 4/5
Lasting appeal/Replayability: 4.5/5
Overall rating: 4.5/5 (90%)
While the turn-based combat may feel slow-paced for those used to modern RPGs, this remake offers a rewarding depth and a nostalgic appeal that stands the test of time. If you’re ready to return to the world of Aliahan, or to experience it for the first time, Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake promises an adventure that captures the magic of a classic RPG.
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