Square Enix graciously allowed us to take another look at Dragon Quest III: HD-2D Remake during PAX West 2024. I had the chance to sample it earlier this year at Summer Game Fest, and I was thrilled to dive into it again. As the name suggests, Dragon Quest III: HD-2D Remake is a modern reimagining of the original Dragon Quest III with stunning HD-2D visuals. Chronologically, this marks the beginning of the Dragon Quest saga, which is why it’s the first to be remade. According to Square Enix, remakes for Dragon Quest I and II aren’t far behind, with a planned release in 2025.
What Is New
During the Dragon Quest III: HD-2D Remake Preview, I got to explore two areas in the demo, the first being the personality test, which has been faithfully remade in Dragon Quest III: HD-2D Remake. The test asks a series of questions, encouraging honest answers. Afterward, you’re placed in a small dungeon and instructed to follow specific directions.
While navigating, I was told not to give in to impulse and to stay on the path. Along the way, I encountered treasure chests that tempted me to stray. Shortly after, I was told to continue straight when I came across a woman trapped under a rock, crying for help. I couldn’t resist aiding her, so I diverted from the path briefly to rescue her before continuing to the dungeon’s exit. The game then informed me that I was a bit of a straight arrow who wears their beliefs on their sleeve
After completing the personality test, we were encouraged to load a second save file set later in the game, where our objective was to reach Skyfell Tower. This section was specifically chosen to highlight the Monster Wrangler class and the Monster Arena
Monster Wrangling
While in the Monster Arena, you can use captured monsters to compete in a small tournament. The tournament consists of multiple rounds where monsters battle according to the strategies you set. For instance, Healslimes can heal and deal small amounts of damage, while Slimes can tackle enemies with minimal impact. We also had access to a Bunicorn, which could tank damage and hit harder compared to the Slime and Healslime.
Originally introduced in Dragon Quest X, the Monster Wrangler class now makes an appearance in Dragon Quest III: HD-2D Remake. I added the Monster Wrangler to my party, and it proved to be quite effective. One of the standout moves I used was the ability to summon a monster to deliver four random attacks to any enemy on the battlefield. The Hero started with a boomerang, making it easy to grind through enemies at Skyfell Tower. I later found a chain sickle and, after reaching the top of the tower, encountered Robbin’ Ood and his lackeys. Swapping my boomerang for the chain sickle, I managed to defeat them. The updated artwork and music in this section were truly impressive.
I still get emotional when I hear the overworld music from Dragon Quest and the way it sounds in Dragon Quest III: HD-2D Remake is simply amazing. I could spend all day exploring the world map, marveling at the beautifully updated sprites. This game is shaping up to be a truly magical experience.
If Dragon Quest III: HD-2D Remake sets the standard for the upcoming remakes, then they will be an absolute must-buy. Dragon Quest I, II, and III will be presented in the best format they’ve ever been in.
Dragon Quest III: HD-2D Remake will released on October 14th, 2024 on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S|X, and PC.
