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Dragon Quest Builders 2

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Dragon Quest Builders 2
Item: Dragon Quest Builders 2
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2019

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Open World, RPG, Anime and JRPG, Casual, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableJul 12, 2019

PlatformNintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4

DeveloperOmega Force

Overview

Dragon Quest Builders 2 is a block-building role-playing game with a charming campaign and a robust multiplayer building mode that supports up to four players online. Create your customized character, team-up with your fearless friend Malroth, gather the skills required to become a full-fledged builder, and combat the Children of Hargon, a vile cult that worships destruction! Then, take your builder online and join your friends to collaborate and create something truly magnificent. Don’t let the name fool you, despite the 2, this is a completely standalone experience featuring new characters, an expansive world, unlimited building combinations, and a storyline that’s sure to satisfy longtime fans and newcomers alike!

Elsewhere

7.8

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Dragon Quest Builders 2 offers a charming narrative with engaging characters, particularly the intriguing Malroth, blending lightheartedness with darker themes. However, critics cite issues like clichéd storytelling, simplistic dialogue, and repetitive plots, leading to a perception that it appeals more to younger audiences. While it has its merits and ties into the broader Dragon Quest lore, the story ultimately lacks depth and originality, leaving more discerning players wanting more.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

34%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Dragon Quest Builders 2 has garnered a mix of positive feedback from various critics, highlighting its engaging narrative and charming characters. Many reviewers, such as Game Informer and Wccftech, praised the story for its engaging elements, including the conflict between creation and destruction, and the character Malroth, who adds depth and intrigue to the narrative. Critics like Digital Chumps noted the emotional motivation behind the building mechanics, emphasizing how the storyline intertwines with gameplay to create a cohesive experience. The game’s lighthearted tone, combined with darker themes, has been appreciated by several reviewers, including Trusted Reviews and Worth Playing, who noted the balance of humor and seriousness in the dialogue and character interactions. Conversely, several critics pointed out significant shortcomings in the story. M3 described it as akin to a "mundane children's program," lacking depth and engagement, while GamingTrend echoed this sentiment by labeling the narrative as cliché and unexciting. RPG Fan and IGN also highlighted the simplistic nature of the dialogue, suggesting that it may not resonate with older players. Critics like MGG criticized the verbosity of the narrative, indicating that it detracts from the overall experience. The repetitive and predictable nature of the story was mentioned by multiple reviewers, including Cultured Vultures and Pocket Gamer UK, who felt that it did not offer enough originality or challenge to keep players fully engaged. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Dragon Quest Builders 2 presents a charming and engaging story with a solid foundation, it suffers from issues related to depth and originality. Many reviewers, such as Game Revolution and Cubed3, acknowledged the narrative's connection to the broader Dragon Quest lore, which adds a layer of enjoyment for fans of the series. However, the repetitive and sometimes simplistic storytelling elements, as pointed out by critics like M3 and GamingTrend, suggest that the game may appeal more to a younger audience or those seeking a casual gaming experience rather than those looking for a deeply immersive narrative. Thus, while the story has its merits, it ultimately falls short of delivering a rich and engaging experience for all players.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Dragon Quest Builders 2 impresses with its engaging mix of construction, exploration, and RPG elements, earning praise for its interactive NPCs and addictive building mechanics. Critics note improvements over its predecessor, but highlight issues with simplistic combat and excessive dialogue that can slow the experience. Despite some pacing and depth concerns, it remains a standout in the crafting genre, appealing to both newcomers and fans alike.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Dragon Quest Builders 2 has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting its engaging blend of construction, exploration, and RPG elements. Many reviewers, including JeuxActu and GamePro Germany, praised the game's ability to combine scripted adventure with free-form building, allowing players to gather resources and complete quests across diverse islands. The introduction of NPCs who assist in tasks, as noted by Game Informer and PSX Extreme, enhances the gameplay experience by making it more interactive and less repetitive than its predecessor. Critics like M3 and GameSpew emphasized the fun and addictive nature of the building mechanics, which encourage creativity and exploration, while the addition of a companion character, Malroth, provides support in combat and resource gathering, further enriching the gameplay. However, there are notable criticisms regarding certain aspects of the gameplay. Many critics, including Forbes and Gameblog.fr, pointed out that the combat system feels simplistic and lacks depth, often becoming a distraction from the primary building experience. The game also received feedback about the excessive dialogue and the reduction of player agency when it comes to combat and building, as highlighted by Forbes, who noted that NPCs take on larger roles in construction tasks. Additionally, some reviewers mentioned that the game can feel drawn out, with quests that may require significant time investment, which could detract from the overall enjoyment for some players, as mentioned by RPG Fan and GameOver.gr. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Dragon Quest Builders 2 offers a compelling and enjoyable gameplay experience, particularly for fans of crafting and building genres. While there are concerns about combat depth and pacing, the majority agree that the game successfully expands on its predecessor with improved mechanics and engaging systems. Critics like IGN Spain and Digital Chumps noted that the combination of building, exploration, and light RPG elements creates a satisfying loop that keeps players engaged. The positive reception of the gameplay indicates that, despite its flaws, Dragon Quest Builders 2 stands out as a strong title within its genre, appealing to both new players and returning fans.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Dragon Quest Builders 2 impresses with its charming, vibrant visuals and distinctive art style, earning praise from critics for its inviting atmosphere and improved graphical fidelity over its predecessor. However, it faces criticism for simplicity and technical issues, like frame rate drops on the Switch, which may disappoint players seeking modern graphics. Overall, it balances nostalgia with modern design but doesn't quite push visual boundaries.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

39%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Dragon Quest Builders 2 have garnered a mix of praise from critics, highlighting the game's charming aesthetic and vibrant environments. Many reviewers, such as Cultured Vultures and Nintenderos, commend the distinctive art style reminiscent of Akira Toriyama, noting the bright pastels and expressive character designs that contribute to the game’s overall appeal. Critics like Hardcore Gamer and Game Informer appreciate the colorful and varied environments, with some even mentioning the improvements in graphical fidelity over the original game, such as better object draw distances and enhanced textures. The whimsical and cute character designs, as noted by Attack of the Fanboy and Everyeye.it, further add to the game's charm, creating an inviting atmosphere that resonates with fans of the Dragon Quest series. However, despite the positive reception, several critics point out notable shortcomings in the game's graphics. God is a Geek and RPG Fan express concerns regarding the simplicity of the graphics, which they feel do not meet modern expectations, with issues such as enemy clipping and indistinguishable materials. Critics like M3 and Eurogamer Italy mention that while the visuals are appealing, they lack depth and complexity, with some textures needing improvement. Additionally, the performance on the Nintendo Switch has been criticized for frame rate drops in complex environments, as highlighted by Switch Player and Cubed3, which detracts from the overall visual experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Dragon Quest Builders 2 presents a visually charming and engaging experience, albeit with some technical limitations. While many reviewers appreciate the vibrant and inviting art style, there is a shared sentiment that the graphics could benefit from further refinement and complexity. Critics like GameSpot and Digital Chumps note that the game successfully captures the essence of the Dragon Quest aesthetic, but they also acknowledge that the visuals may not fully satisfy players seeking cutting-edge graphics. Ultimately, the game strikes a balance between nostalgia and modern design, appealing to both fans of the franchise and newcomers, even if it doesn't push the boundaries of visual fidelity.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Dragon Quest Builders 2's soundtrack, composed by Koichi Sugiyama, is praised for its nostalgic and immersive qualities, enhancing the game's atmosphere. However, critics note a lack of variety and originality, with repetitive themes and few new compositions. While the music charms longtime fans and complements gameplay, it falls short for those seeking innovation.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

39%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Dragon Quest Builders 2 have garnered a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting the nostalgic and immersive qualities of the soundtrack. Several reviewers, such as Atomix and Everyeye.it, praised the orchestrated music composed by Koichi Sugiyama, noting that it enhances the game's atmosphere and evokes fond memories of the classic Dragon Quest series. Critics like GameOver.gr and PlayStation Universe emphasized the emotional resonance of the music, stating that it contributes positively to the overall gameplay experience. The lively sound effects, as mentioned by DarkStation and Nintenderos, further enhance the immersive quality of rebuilding towns and exploring the game’s environments, creating a whimsical and charming auditory backdrop. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the soundtrack's variety and originality. DualShockers pointed out that while the music features classic Dragon Quest tunes, it lacks a more epic orchestral soundtrack that could elevate the game's overall feel. Critics such as Multiplayer.it and RPG Fan echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the soundtrack can become monotonous over time due to its repetitive nature and reliance on recycled themes. Additionally, some reviewers, like MGG and Game Rant, expressed disappointment in the absence of new compositions or remixes, indicating that the music, while enjoyable, does not push the boundaries of creativity expected from a sequel. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Dragon Quest Builders 2 offers a charming and nostalgic auditory experience, primarily driven by Koichi Sugiyama's compositions. While the music effectively enhances the game's atmosphere and evokes nostalgia for longtime fans, there are concerns about its repetitiveness and lack of variety. Critics such as Vandal and GameSpace highlighted that the sound design complements the gameplay well, but the absence of new material leaves some players wanting more. Ultimately, the soundtrack serves its purpose within the game, providing a satisfying experience for fans of the franchise, but it may not fully satisfy those seeking innovation in the musical landscape.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Critics of Dragon Quest Builders 2 praise its witty dialogue and character development, especially the charming British accents. However, many express disappointment over the lack of voice acting, believing it detracts from the narrative experience and disrupts key moments. While the writing shines, the absence of vocal performances leaves a gap in immersion, creating a mixed reception overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

15%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

77%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The opinions regarding the voice acting in Dragon Quest Builders 2 reveal a notable appreciation for the game's written dialogue and character development. Critics such as Trusted Reviews and We Got This Covered highlight the sharp variety in dialogue, with distinct dialects and well-crafted lines that add charm and personality to the interactions. Worth Playing praises the humorous and lighthearted delivery of British accents, suggesting that these elements enhance the overall experience. Furthermore, Everyeye.it acknowledges that while the protagonist is mute, the character of Malroth adds depth to the narrative, indicating that the writing compensates for the absence of voice acting in some respects. However, a significant number of critics express concerns regarding the lack of voice acting, which they believe detracts from the game's narrative experience. Digitally Downloaded and Vandal both note the absence of voice acting, suggesting that it could have enhanced the storytelling. Game Revolution criticizes the slow delivery of certain lines, which disrupts the flow of key plot moments, while GameSpace points out that the written accents can be difficult to understand, making it hard for players to follow the dialogue. Additionally, PC Invasion mentions that the rural British accents may not resonate well with all players, indicating a potential barrier to immersion. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests a mixed sentiment towards the voice acting in Dragon Quest Builders 2. While many reviewers appreciate the well-written dialogue and character development, they also express disappointment over the absence of actual voice acting, which could have enriched the gaming experience. Critics like PC Gamer and PLAY! Zine reinforce this notion by stating that the lack of voice acting detracts from the overall experience, while others like GameSpot recognize the lively and memorable characters despite their verbosity. This duality reflects a broader conversation about the balance between written dialogue and voice acting in enhancing narrative engagement in video games.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Dragon Quest Builders 2 shines on PS4 and PC with smooth gameplay and stable performance (60fps), but the Nintendo Switch version struggles with significant frame rate drops and long loading times, making it less enjoyable. Critics unanimously favor the PS4 for its polished experience, while the PC version offers enhanced controls. Overall, the PS4 is the top pick for a solid gaming experience, while the Switch version's technical flaws may put off some players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

27%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Dragon Quest Builders 2 has garnered a mix of positive feedback across various platforms, particularly on the PlayStation 4. Critics like PlayStation Universe and Worth Playing have praised the PS4 version for its polished performance, with reports of it running smoothly at 60fps and minimal technical issues. Eurogamer Italy noted that the game runs well with only minor frame drops during intense situations, while Hardcore Gamer highlighted the overall stability despite some minor bugs. The PC version has also received commendations, with reviewers like Digital Chumps and Game Revolution emphasizing its flawless performance and enhanced experience thanks to mouse and keyboard controls. Critics such as MGG and PC Gamer reiterated that the PC port runs smoothly with stable frame rates, making it an appealing option for players. However, the reviews also indicate several technical shortcomings across platforms. On the PS4, critics like Daily Star and DarkStation pointed out issues with long loading times and control mapping problems, particularly with the camera. GamesRadar+ mentioned freezing during text box scenes, while InsideGamer.nl highlighted performance issues in co-op mode. The Nintendo Switch version, in particular, has faced criticism for its performance, with multiple reviewers like Jeuxvideo.com and Nintendo Insider noting significant frame rate drops and long loading times, especially in crowded areas. Critics like FNintendo and Gameblog.fr echoed these sentiments, stating that the Switch version suffers from performance issues that can detract from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while the PS4 and PC versions of Dragon Quest Builders 2 deliver a solid and enjoyable experience, the Nintendo Switch version struggles with technical performance, especially in more demanding scenarios. The PS4 version is generally regarded as the best option for its smooth gameplay and stability, as noted by Atomix and Vandal, while the PC version offers enhanced performance and flexibility. In contrast, the Switch version's performance issues, highlighted by critics like Cultured Vultures and Game Rant, may deter some players, although many still find it enjoyable despite the technical drawbacks. Ultimately, each platform has its strengths and weaknesses, but the PS4 version stands out as the most consistently praised in terms of technical performance.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Dragon Quest Builders 2 scores high on replay value, praised for its vast content, exploration, and engaging co-op mechanics that keep players coming back. Critics celebrate its creativity and multiplayer features, enhancing social gameplay. However, concerns arise over repetitive tasks and shallow multiplayer depth that may limit long-term engagement. Despite some drawbacks, the game is still seen as enjoyable, particularly for fans of building and community interaction, offering ample incentive for multiple playthroughs.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Dragon Quest Builders 2 is largely positive, with many critics praising the game's extensive content and engaging mechanics. Reviewers like GameSpot and Nintendo Life highlight the significant replay value stemming from exploration, building, and online co-op features, which encourage players to return to the game repeatedly. The game's structure, which allows players to revisit islands and experiment with various building styles, is frequently noted as a strong point. Critics such as IGN Spain and RPG Fan emphasize the creative freedom provided by the multiplayer options and the ability to share creations, which enhances the social aspect and longevity of the gameplay experience. However, several critics express concerns about the game's replay value being hampered by certain repetitive elements and a lack of depth in some areas. For instance, GameOver.gr mentions that the challenge of starting anew on each island may discourage players who prefer to see their progress carry over. Gameblog.fr points out that the repetitive nature of tasks could limit long-term engagement, while Destructoid suggests that the game may not hold attention as long as its predecessor. Additionally, some reviewers, like PLAY! Zine, find the cooperative multiplayer mode lacking in depth, which could detract from the overall replayability for players seeking a more robust multiplayer experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Dragon Quest Builders 2 offers a wealth of content and a compelling gameplay loop, making it enjoyable for players who appreciate building and exploration. While there are valid concerns regarding repetition and the depth of multiplayer features, the game is still regarded as highly replayable, especially for those who enjoy creative freedom and community interaction. Critics like Game Informer and InsideGamer.nl affirm that the lengthy campaign and numerous activities contribute to a rich experience, suggesting that despite its flaws, the game provides enough incentive for players to return for multiple playthroughs.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

89%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

11%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding Dragon Quest Builders 2 is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its engaging gameplay, improved mechanics, and charming aesthetics. Reviewers like PC Gamer and Game Informer highlight the well-crafted story and polished experience, emphasizing the game's unique blend of building and RPG elements. Critics from GameSpot and Hardcore Gamer appreciate the captivating exploration and creative freedom that the game offers, making it an enjoyable experience for both newcomers and returning fans. Additionally, several reviews, such as those from VGC and Gameplanet, note that the sequel successfully builds upon its predecessor, correcting past mistakes and delivering a content-rich adventure that is highly recommended. However, there are notable criticisms that some reviewers point out. Issues such as tedious combat, slow dialogue, and simplistic graphics are recurring themes in the critiques. RPG Fan and IGN mention that while the building mechanics are enjoyable, the combat leaves much to be desired, detracting from the overall experience. Critics like GameSpace and Destructoid also express concerns about pacing and the lack of depth in certain gameplay aspects, which may frustrate players seeking a more cohesive narrative or robust multiplayer options. Performance issues, particularly on the Nintendo Switch, are also highlighted by Cubed3 and Gameblog.fr, indicating that technical shortcomings can hinder the gaming experience. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that Dragon Quest Builders 2 is a strong and enjoyable sequel that successfully enhances the original game. Many reviewers, including those from Push Square and GameCritics, affirm that the game offers a gratifying experience, with significant improvements in gameplay and mechanics. The sentiment is echoed by critics like Atomix and USgamer, who laud the game as a must-play for fans of the genre. Overall, while some flaws exist, the majority of reviewers agree that Dragon Quest Builders 2 is a delightful and engaging title that stands out in the building RPG genre.

TL;DR

Dragon Quest Builders 2 receives mostly positive reviews for its engaging gameplay, improved mechanics, and charming visuals, with critics praising its blend of building and RPG elements. While some issues like tedious combat, slow dialogue, and technical flaws—especially on the Switch—are noted, the consensus is that it successfully builds on its predecessor, offering a content-rich and enjoyable experience for both new and returning players. Overall, it's highly recommended for fans of the genre despite some shortcomings.

MONSTER

Reviews

150 reviews found

100

VGC

Nintendo Switch

Jul 11, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dragon Quest Builders 2 is a highly recommended sequel that improves on every aspect of the original game. It offers meaningful content additions, quality of life improvements, and maintains the core enjoyable elements of the series.

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100

Gaming Age

PlayStation 4

Jul 11, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dragon Quest Builders 2 is an absolute blast and a worthy sequel that addresses complaints with the original. Despite some performance trade-offs on the Switch version, it is still a rich and enjoyable game.

100

VG247

PlayStation 4

Sep 18, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dragon Quest Builders 2 is a masterpiece and a great game to lose oneself in during the summer months.

100

GamesRadar+

PlayStation 4

Jul 11, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dragon Quest Builders 2 is a beautiful mashup of iconic games with a quirky sense of humor. The gameplay offers a satisfying mix of building, farming, and exploration. The story can sometimes drag, and there are technical issues on the Nintendo Switch version. Overall, it is a highly enjoyable game.

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DualShockers

PlayStation 4

Jul 11, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dragon Quest Builders 2 is praised as one of the best games of 2019, appealing to fans of various genres and providing a rich, enjoyable experience.

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PlayStation LifeStyle

PlayStation 4

Jul 11, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dragon Quest Builders 2 is described as a successful sequel that improves upon its predecessor with more content, engaging gameplay, and a charming story, making it appealing to both JRPG fans and newcomers.

NintendoWorldReport

Nintendo Switch

Jul 11, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dragon Quest Builders 2 combines the best elements of the Dragon Quest franchise with the creativity and freedom of Minecraft, resulting in an impressive and memorable gaming experience that is likely to appeal to a wide audience.

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Gameplanet

Nintendo Switch

Aug 2, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dragon Quest Builders 2 is a fantastic game that improves upon the first game in every way. It offers a great building and ARPG adventure experience with a lot of content to enjoy.

Wccftech

PlayStation 4

Jul 11, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dragon Quest Builders 2 improves on its predecessor in every way, offering an enjoyable experience for fans of the series and sandbox games.

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Digital Chumps

Dec 16, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dragon Quest Builders 2 on PC offers a meaningful and engaging experience with a well-constructed story, rewarding gameplay, improved graphics, and solid technical performance. The PC version enhances the gameplay experience and provides a different perspective for players familiar with similar games like Minecraft.

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