DRAGON QUEST III HD-2D Remake

Developer: Square Enix
Release: Nov 14th 2024
Platforms:
RPG
Nostalgic
Beautiful
Faithful
Expensive
Grinding
DRAGON QUEST III HD-2D Remake Poster

" Stunning RPG with faithful turn-based combat, HD-2D graphics, and some late-game grind "

DRAGON QUEST III HD-2D Remake Review

DRAGON QUEST III HD-2D Remake is widely regarded as a masterful and definitive remake of the classic RPG, bringing the nostalgic experience into a stunning HD-2D presentation. Players praise the game for its smooth gameplay, immersive music, and significant quality-of-life improvements that make the experience accessible to both longtime fans and newcomers alike. The remake maintains the core charm and traditional turn-based mechanics, while adding new content such as the Monster Wrangling class and difficulty settings to cater to different player preferences.

However, some criticisms include the high price point, which many feel is steep for a remake of a NES-era game, and occasional technical issues such as stuttering on certain platforms. Some players also mention that the story remains simple compared to modern RPGs, and the grind can be tedious in later stages. Despite minor flaws and some divisive design choices like character body type options, the game is celebrated as a faithful and visually striking tribute to a beloved classic.

Highlights

Players especially praise the beautiful HD-2D graphics that breathe new life into towns, dungeons, and battles. The gameplay mechanics remain faithful to the original, with smooth turn-based combat and a rewarding class-changing system. The storyline, while simple, retains the classic charm and nostalgia that fans appreciate. Quality-of-life improvements and mod support enhance the overall experience, allowing for customization such as speeding up travel and adjusting random encounters. The soundtrack and immersive music are also frequently highlighted as standout features.

Criticisms

Common criticisms focus on the high price, which many consider excessive for a remake of an older game, recommending waiting for sales. Some players experience technical issues like stuttering on certain hardware. The grind-heavy gameplay in later dungeons can feel tedious, and the story is viewed as simplistic compared to modern RPG narratives. A few players dislike changes in character customization options and minor censorship elements. Additionally, the lack of attack animations during combat and occasional difficulty spikes are noted as drawbacks.

Pros

  • Stunning HD-2D graphics that refresh the classic game world beautifully.
  • Faithful turn-based combat system preserving original gameplay charm.
  • Immersive and nostalgic soundtrack enhances the gaming experience.
  • Quality-of-life improvements streamline grinding and exploration.
  • Mod support allows customization of gameplay speed and difficulty.
  • Multiple difficulty settings cater to both casual and hardcore players.
  • Engaging class-changing system offers strategic party building.

Cons

  • Price is considered high for a remake of a classic NES game.
  • Some technical issues like stuttering on specific hardware occur.
  • Late-game grind and encounter rates can feel repetitive and tedious.
  • Simplistic story and character development compared to modern RPGs.
  • Lack of combat attack animations reduces visual excitement.
  • Minor censorship and changes in character customization upset some fans.
  • Difficulty spikes may frustrate players unprepared for challenge.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

DRAGON QUEST III HD-2D Remake is a stunning reimagining of the beloved masterpiece and narrative beginning to The Erdrick Trilogy.

Release Date Nov 14th 2024
Publisher Square Enix
Developer Square Enix, ARTDINK
Platforms

User Reviews

Very Positive (1,089)
93% Positive 7% Negative