Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake Review

courtesy of Square Enix

This product was provided by Square Enix

Square Enix is ending the Erdrick Trilogy with the Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake, combining the first two games in the series into a single package for the Switch, Switch 2, PS5, Xbox Series X/S and PC. Like the excellent Dragon Quest III remake released last year, this new release features the same stunning HD-2D graphics, improved turn-based combat and quality-of-life enhancements such as adjustable battle speed and auto-battle, along with new content including a completely explorable underwater world in Dragon Quest II.

The outcomes, though, are varied. Dragon Quest II comes out as the clear winner since the revised pacing and structure turn what was originally a slow and unbalanced experience into one of the most pleasant entries in the series. Dragon Quest I, on the other hand, does not perform as well; its expanded systems and increased complexity undermine the game's initial charm and blur the simple and elegant design which was the reason it became a classic in the first place.

The presentation is still a strong feature in both games—the pixel and 3D art style is just as impressive as before and the music does capture the series' timeless magic. For fans who want the complete set, the trilogy is available as part of the Erdrick Trilogy Collection when bundled with Dragon Quest III.

The package is worthwhile as a whole, thanks to the excellent II, although the I at times fails to stay on track.

Score: 7.5/10