Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake

If you’re a newcomer to the Dragon Quest series, this remake is a solid entry point. However, at $59.99, the value may not justify the price for veterans familiar with the original titles. Comparatively, you'll find better bang for your buck in more expansive RPGs on the Switch 2.

This remake of Dragon Quest I & II captures the essence of the original adventures while updating its visuals with an appealing HD-2D style. The vibrant graphics breathe new life into these classic RPGs, but don’t expect drastic changes to the gameplay. Combat feels familiar, with the addition of enemy variety making battles slightly more engaging than before. However, veterans might find the experience lacking; the story doesn’t evolve much from its roots and can feel slow at times. Performance on Switch 2 is solid, with smooth frame rates in both handheld and docked modes. Yet, the absence of voice acting might leave some players craving a deeper connection to the characters.

You’ll explore the classic worlds of Alefgard and beyond, battling iconic monsters and completing quests. Combat utilizes a turn-based system with new mechanics like ‘Tactics’ that lets you set AI behavior. Character progression remains traditional, with grinding necessary to keep up with tougher foes.