Dragon Quest III is a significant entry in the history of JRPGs, regarded in Japan as the defining title of the genre. Its success has resulted in numerous re-releases, with the recent HD-2D Remake being the most lavish version to date. This remake embraces the nostalgic elements of the original, retaining much of its gameplay while enhancing the visual experience with Square Enix’s HD-2D art style.
The remake immerses players in beautifully detailed settings that reflect the game’s world, from vibrant cities to ominous dungeons. While the visuals elevate the experience, some criticisms arise regarding limited sprite animations and performance issues on the Nintendo Switch, particularly in graphically intense areas.
The storyline follows the familiar plot of a hero embarking on an epic quest to defeat an evil overlord, enhanced by humorous localization and new flashbacks depicting the hero’s father, Ortega. These additions, although standard, provide a degree of fun and context for players.
In terms of gameplay, the core mechanics of Dragon Quest III remain intact. Players engage in turn-based battles, manage items, and navigate between locations. However, the remake introduces a new character class, the Monster Wrangler, who can recruit monsters and participate in monster battles. This addition incentivizes exploration through hidden items and new locations scattered throughout the world.
Additional gameplay improvements include quest markers, automatic healing upon leveling up, and unique class abilities. While the combat system retains its classic form, it can feel simplistic at times, lacking some of the innovations found in later Dragon Quest titles. The personality system, which affects character growth, remains convoluted and could use refinement.
Overall, the Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake successfully combines nostalgia with modern enhancements. It appeals to both veteran players and newcomers, presenting a visually stunning and faithfully executed homage to a beloved classic, even as it carries some of the original’s flaws.
