Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake Preview: Timeless Classics Reborn

The unique Dragon Quest is, for sure, probably the most influential video video games of all time. The sport’s legacy lives on as being extensively thought of the primary actual JRPG, and its success spawned a franchise that is likely one of the most recognizable and common in all of video video games as we speak.

Although the mainline video games haven’t seen a brand new entry since 2017, Square Enix most lately launched an unbelievable remake of the third sport within the collection final yr. A yr later, and so they’re again, with one other HD-2D artwork fashion remake, this time remaking the primary two video games within the collection.

During PAX East 2025, I used to be in a position to get some hands-on time with Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake, and though my time with the video games was transient, it’s clear that Square Enix is eager on giving followers the last word expertise in terms of taking part in these legendary video games in a brand new manner.

My first cease within the preview for the brand new batch of remakes was Dragon Quest I. Similar to Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake, the very first thing you’ll discover when taking part in is simply how improbable the sport appears. The HD-2D fashion of artwork, popularized by video games like Octopath Traveler, works extremely properly in a setting like the unique Dragon Quest video games.

Whether or not it’s touring the overworld or making your manner via a small city, the sport’s visible overhaul is a sight to be seen. Partially because of the truth that it’s been so lengthy for the reason that unique sport’s launch, however the brand new look actually does lend itself properly to getting misplaced within the large world of Dragon Quest. Even smaller animations like transitioning right into a battle or leaving an space have been up to date a bit to supply a clearer and extra concise really feel.

After a while with the primary Dragon Quest, it was time to maneuver over to the second sport. My time right here was a bit shorter, and spent totally on one of many earlier parts of the sport, visiting the destroyed kingdom of Moonbrooke. It’s right here that the sport’s visible overhaul actually shone. While the unique sport does an incredible job of depicting the ruined fortress for its time, this time round, the sport can showcase the destruction and ruined side of the world considerably extra.

Visuals aren’t all that’s new to those remakes, although. Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake additionally sports activities a number of of the identical high quality of life updates that Dragon Quest III’s replace acquired. These embody issues just like the introduction of a mini-map whereas touring world wide, simpler save choices, the flexibility to maneuver quicker on this planet, and maybe better of all, the flexibility to hurry up battles as you’re combating.

Gameplay clever, each Dragon Quest I and Dragon Quest II don’t differ an excessive amount of. The sport continues to be very a lot a traditional JRPG, and Square Enix has made positive to maintain that fashion a robust driving issue. As famous earlier than, among the high quality of life adjustments do make issues higher, although. For as enjoyable because the video games are, the fight in each generally is a bit tedious, so the choice to hurry up fights and get via areas quicker actually is a much-needed luxurious.

Of course, mechanical adjustments aren’t all that’s new to those remakes. While we’re unable to debate them totally, Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake each sport some new options that improve the already traditional video games. Ranging from considerably useful options to brand-new, full-fledged issues that construct upon the story of the sport, there’s assured to be loads of issues followers of the collection have by no means seen earlier than.

Unfortunately, my time with Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake was transient. However, even in a short while, it’s clear that Square Enix has discovered a profitable methodology to bringing again these timeless classics. Similar to its Dragon Quest III remake, the brand new variations of Dragon Quest I and II are extra about presenting these video games in an package deal that makes it simpler for contemporary audiences to take a look at.

While there are some adjustments that make issues simpler, the sport’s are largely saved intact, with Square Enix as an alternative selecting to give attention to what made them so unbelievable all these years in the past. For followers of the Dragon Quest collection, JRPGs, and newcomers alike, Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake is a must-play and one thing that elevates a traditional to new heights.

Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake will launch on October 30, 2025, and shall be obtainable on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, and PC.