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80

MONSTER

Star Icon

Dragon Quest Builders 2

2019
GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Open World, RPG, Anime and JRPG, Casual, Single Player, Multiplayer
AvailableJul 12, 2019
PlatformNintendo Switch, PC, Xbox One, 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!

Score icon

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

81

TL;DR

Dragon Quest Builders 2 dazzles with whimsical charm, inventive world-building, and a lighthearted RPG narrative that blends gameplay and story seamlessly, but its reliance on tired tropes, sluggish pacing, and shallow character arcs undermine its potential, offering a fun yet formulaic adventure for fans of creative freedom over deep storytelling.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

81

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

34%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

1%

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

The story of Dragon Quest Builders 2 receives praise for its charm, creativity, and integration with gameplay mechanics. Critics like IGN Spain highlight the narrative’s focus on a builder restoring hope in a world where construction is forbidden, while GameSpot commends its creative reinterpretation of Dragon Quest II’s ending, making it accessible to newcomers. The game’s lighthearted tone and humor are frequently noted, with PC Gamer praising its "massive RPG story full of peril and plot twists" and GameSpew describing the narrative as "whimsical and fun." Many reviewers, such as GamesRadar+ and Nintendo Life, appreciate the structured storytelling that balances gameplay tutorials with exploration, while Critical Hit emphasizes the emotional engagement through the protagonist’s role as a "master builder" transforming dilapidated islands. Themes of trust, creation, and rebuilding resonate strongly, with PSX Extreme and InsideGamer.nl highlighting the importance of personal connections and world-building. However, several critics criticize the story for being formulaic, unoriginal, or lacking depth. M3 and GamingTrend describe it as "mundane" and "cliché," with the former noting that players prioritize building over narrative engagement. Xbox Achievements and GamesRadar+ point to pacing issues, where the story feels like a "grind" or drags due to excessive tutorials. GameSpace and Cubed3 critique the narrative’s disjointed structure and predictable twists, while Pocket Gamer UK calls it a "regurgitation of Dragon Quest II," diminishing its originality. Some reviewers, like XGN, find the plot "long-winded," and Destructoid mentions pacing problems despite anti-religious themes and a satisfying conclusion. The story’s focus on gameplay mechanics occasionally overshadows character development, with IGN noting simplistic dialogue that only becomes engaging toward the end. Overall, critics agree that Dragon Quest Builders 2’s story balances charm and creativity with notable flaws. While it excels in world-building, humor, and integrating gameplay with narrative (as highlighted by GameSpot and PC Gamer), its reliance on familiar tropes and pacing issues (criticized by M3, Xbox Achievements, and Pocket Gamer UK) prevent it from being groundbreaking. The narrative’s emphasis on rebuilding and community resonates with fans, as noted by Gamer.nl and Critical Hit, but its lack of depth and occasional predictability (mentioned by Cubed3 and GameSpace) leaves some critics underwhelmed. Despite these drawbacks, the story remains a cohesive and engaging experience for those who prioritize creative freedom and lighthearted adventure over complex storytelling.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Dragon Quest Builders 2 dazzles with whimsical charm, inventive world-building, and a lighthearted RPG narrative that blends gameplay and story seamlessly, but its reliance on tired tropes, sluggish pacing, and shallow character arcs undermine its potential, offering a fun yet formulaic adventure for fans of creative freedom over deep storytelling.

88

TL;DR

Dragon Quest Builders 2 shines with creative freedom, seamless RPG-sandbox fusion, and addictive building loops, praised for its immersive world and quality-of-life upgrades—yet struggles with simplistic combat, repetitive mechanics, and reduced player agency, though these flaws fail to overshadow its inventive charm and nostalgic appeal.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

88

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

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

The gameplay of Dragon Quest Builders 2 is widely praised for its creative freedom, engaging building mechanics, and immersive world-building. Critics consistently highlight the game’s ability to blend construction with RPG elements, offering a satisfying loop of exploration, resource gathering, and creative expression. For instance, Gamer.nl and Cubed3 commend the sandbox-style gameplay, noting that building mechanics are both intuitive and rewarding, while XGN and GamingTrend emphasize the game’s fantastic construction system and the joy of crafting expansive structures. The sequel also introduces quality-of-life improvements, such as enhanced tool management and underwater building, which RPG Fan and GameSpew appreciate for their seamless integration into the gameplay. Additionally, IGN and Cultured Vultures praise the game’s balance between structured quests and open-ended creativity, with the latter highlighting the unique room system that enriches AI interactions. Overall, the majority of critics agree that Builders 2 excels in fostering a meditative, exploratory experience rooted in its core building mechanics. However, several reviewers point out notable flaws, particularly in combat and progression systems. GameSpace and Forbes criticize the combat as simplistic and less engaging compared to other RPGs, with Forbes specifically noting that pairing Malroth with the player dilutes combat satisfaction. JeuxActu and IGN describe combat as unexciting, relying on basic attacks and lacking depth, while InsideGamer.nl and RPG Fan point to repetitive mechanics that detract from the overall experience. Additionally, some critics, like Video Chums and Forbes, express frustration with reduced player agency in building tasks, as non-playable characters handle large projects, limiting creative control. The game’s pacing also draws mixed reactions: while Twinfinite acknowledges that slower progression makes discoveries feel earned, others, such as Forbes and Cubed3, find the structure overly drawn out or gated by story-driven constraints. These issues, though significant, are often framed as minor drawbacks in an otherwise strong package. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with many hailing Dragon Quest Builders 2 as a standout entry in the genre. The game’s emphasis on creative building, community management, and exploration resonates strongly, as noted by Cubed3, RPGamer, and Nintendo Life, who praise its addictive progression loops and diverse island adventures. While combat and pacing issues are acknowledged, they rarely overshadow the game’s strengths. IGN and GameCritics highlight its successful fusion of Minecraft-like creativity with JRPG elements, while Eurogamer Italy and PC Invasion commend its expansive world and varied gameplay mechanics. Ultimately, the majority of reviewers agree that Builders 2 delivers a fulfilling experience, balancing innovation with nostalgia for fans of the series and newcomers alike. The game’s ability to prioritize creative expression and exploration over rigid structure ensures it remains a compelling title despite its imperfections.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Dragon Quest Builders 2 shines with creative freedom, seamless RPG-sandbox fusion, and addictive building loops, praised for its immersive world and quality-of-life upgrades—yet struggles with simplistic combat, repetitive mechanics, and reduced player agency, though these flaws fail to overshadow its inventive charm and nostalgic appeal.

83

TL;DR

Charming blocky art style and whimsical design win praise, but technical hiccups and performance issues on Switch undermine polish. Critics adore its nostalgic, vibrant aesthetic and creative building tools, yet note muddy visuals, clipping, and frame rate drops. A mixed reception where charm often overshadows flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

83

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

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

The graphics and visual design of Dragon Quest Builders 2 are widely praised for their charm, consistency with the series’ aesthetic, and improvements over its predecessor. Critics highlight the game’s blocky, voxel-based art style as "charming and effective" (Nintendo Life) and note its vibrant, colorful environments that align with Akira Toriyama’s iconic character designs (Nintenderos, RPG Site). Many commend the game’s ability to blend simplicity with creativity, such as the "versatile building tool" (VG247) and "clean graphics with tons of new items" (We Got This Covered). The visual appeal is further emphasized by critics like Game Informer, who praise the "remarkable improvements in graphics and visual design," including detailed animations and environmental elements like water effects. The game’s whimsical, cartoonish style—described as "cute and fitting for the game's aesthetic" (XboxAddict) and "bright pastels" (Cultured Vultures)—is seen as a core strength, reinforcing its playful and immersive world. However, several critics point out technical limitations and areas where the visuals fall short of modern expectations. God is a Geek notes that the graphics appear "muted and fuzzy compared to the original game," while RPG Fan criticizes issues like "enemy clipping and indistinguishable materials." Performance inconsistencies across platforms are also highlighted, with PLAY! Zine pointing out frame rate struggles on the Switch and Vandal noting a drop from 60fps on PS4 to 30fps on Switch. Some critics, like M3, acknowledge that the "simple" visuals "may not impress" but argue they don’t detract from enjoyment. Others, such as Gameblog.fr, mention technical limitations in the Switch version, while Multiplayer.it points to minor issues like "character compenetration." These critiques suggest that while the art style is endearing, its technical execution and modern polish are occasionally lacking. Overall, the consensus among critics leans positive, with most appreciating the game’s visual design as a key part of its identity. The blocky, whimsical aesthetic—rooted in Akira Toriyama’s work—is seen as both nostalgic and effective, with many praising its "vibrant" (RPG Site) and "inviting" (GameSpot) nature. While some critics like COGconnected and Game Revolution note improvements in scale, detail, and performance, others acknowledge that the visuals are not without flaws. The game’s charm and creativity often outweigh its technical shortcomings, as seen in praise from Cubed3, who calls the world "visually appealing and polished," and VGC, who highlights "excellent translation and attention to detail." Despite mixed opinions on graphical ambition, the visual design is broadly celebrated for enhancing the game’s playful, community-driven experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Charming blocky art style and whimsical design win praise, but technical hiccups and performance issues on Switch undermine polish. Critics adore its nostalgic, vibrant aesthetic and creative building tools, yet note muddy visuals, clipping, and frame rate drops. A mixed reception where charm often overshadows flaws.

80

TL;DR

Dragon Quest Builders 2’s sound design nails nostalgic charm with Koichi Sugiyama’s iconic themes, delivering lively SFX and consistent cross-platform music that elevates gameplay. While praised for its familiar warmth and immersive quality, critics call out repetitive motifs and a lack of originality, with some calling it a rehash of classic material. The soundtrack excels as a fitting companion to the game’s whimsical style but misses chances for innovation, balancing tradition with minor flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

80

Positive Reviews (80-100)

59%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

41%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

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

The sound design and music of Dragon Quest Builders 2 received widespread praise for their nostalgic charm and faithful adherence to the series’ iconic style. Critics like Atomix, Everyeye.it, and RPGamer highlighted Koichi Sugiyama’s compositions, noting that the classic Dragon Quest themes enhance the game’s atmosphere and evoke a sense of familiarity for long-time fans. Eurogamer Italy and PSX Extreme emphasized the lively sound effects and catchy background music, which complement gameplay without overwhelming players. The soundtrack’s consistency across platforms—whether on PS4, Nintendo Switch, or PC—was also noted as a strength, with VGC and Nintenderos praising its immersive quality. Many reviewers, including DualShockers and Impulsegamer, acknowledged that the music effectively supports gameplay mechanics, from town-building to exploration, while Twinfinite and Jeuxvideo.com celebrated the vintage orchestral melodies that align with the game’s whimsical tone. However, several critics pointed out limitations in the soundtrack’s originality and variety. Multiplayer.it and RPG Fan criticized the lack of diversity, noting that repeated use of classic themes could feel monotonous over long play sessions. MGG and XboxAddict expressed disappointment, arguing that the music lacked fresh material compared to earlier entries in the series, with RPG Fan specifically mentioning a “rehash of classic themes” as a drawback. While GameSpace acknowledged the catchy tunes, they noted some players might find them irritating. Additionally, Vandal and XboxAchievements pointed out that the absence of voice acting for dialogues, though not directly tied to music, underscored a broader sense of missed opportunities in audio design. These critiques suggest that while the soundtrack is competent, it occasionally prioritizes nostalgia over innovation. Overall, the consensus among critics leans positively, with most agreeing that Dragon Quest Builders 2’s sound design and music successfully capture the spirit of the series. The nostalgic appeal, led by Sugiyama’s enduring compositions, was a unifying factor, as highlighted by Game Rant and NintendoWorldReport, who praised its role in enriching the gameplay experience. While some critics like Worth Playing and Vandal acknowledged minor flaws—such as repetition or limited variety—the majority viewed the soundtrack as a fitting and effective complement to the game’s creative mechanics. The balance between tradition and accessibility, along with the charm of familiar melodies, ensured that the music remained a strong, if not groundbreaking, aspect of the title. As Gameblog.fr noted, the soundtrack “could benefit from a broader selection,” but for many, it was sufficient to enhance the game’s whimsical and nostalgic appeal.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Dragon Quest Builders 2’s sound design nails nostalgic charm with Koichi Sugiyama’s iconic themes, delivering lively SFX and consistent cross-platform music that elevates gameplay. While praised for its familiar warmth and immersive quality, critics call out repetitive motifs and a lack of originality, with some calling it a rehash of classic material. The soundtrack excels as a fitting companion to the game’s whimsical style but misses chances for innovation, balancing tradition with minor flaws.

67

TL;DR

Praised for witty, character-driven dialogue and quirky accents, Dragon Quest Builders 2 shines with creative writing but falters without voice acting, leaving key moments flat and immersion fragmented by confusing dialects and a mute protagonist.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

67

Positive Reviews (80-100)

15%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

77%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

8%

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

The initial reception of Dragon Quest Builders 2’s dialogue and voice acting highlights several positive aspects, particularly its well-crafted writing and distinct character voices. Critics like Digitally Downloaded and Trusted Reviews praised the game’s “well-written dialogue” and “sharp variety,” noting that accents and dialects add charm and personality to interactions. We Got This Covered emphasized unique character voices, while Worth Playing appreciated the lighthearted British accents that enhance the game’s whimsical tone. Additionally, GameSpot highlighted lively, memorable characters with dialogue that brings them to life, even if it occasionally veers into being “overly chatty.” These reviews suggest that the written dialogue effectively compensates for the absence of voice acting, creating a sense of depth and individuality for many characters. However, several critics pointed out significant drawbacks related to the lack of voice acting and its impact on immersion. Game Revolution criticized the “slow delivery of certain lines,” which disrupted key plot moments, while Vandal and PLAY! Zine argued that the absence of vocal performances detracted from the narrative experience. GameSpace and PC Invasion noted that written accents—particularly rural British ones—could be difficult to follow or even off-putting for some players, with GameSpace explicitly suggesting that voice acting would have improved clarity. The protagonist’s muteness, as mentioned by Everyeye.it, also raised concerns about character development, though the inclusion of Malroth’s vocal presence was seen as a redeeming factor. These critiques underscore a tension between the game’s written dialogue and its lack of auditory engagement. Overall, critics largely agree that Dragon Quest Builders 2’s dialogue is strong but suffers from the absence of voice acting, which limits its emotional impact. While Digitally Downloaded, Trusted Reviews, and PC Gamer acknowledged that written accents and well-structured lines contribute to character depth, others like GameSpace and PC Invasion felt these elements fell short of fully immersing players. The consensus leans toward a balanced view: the game’s dialogue is commendable for its creativity and personality, but the lack of voice acting—particularly in key moments—diminishes its potential. As Vandal and PLAY! Zine noted, this omission leaves room for improvement, especially for players seeking more dynamic storytelling. Despite these criticisms, many reviewers recognized that the game’s charm and humor largely compensate for its vocal shortcomings.

TL;DR

voice acting

Praised for witty, character-driven dialogue and quirky accents, Dragon Quest Builders 2 shines with creative writing but falters without voice acting, leaving key moments flat and immersion fragmented by confusing dialects and a mute protagonist.

74

TL;DR

Dragon Quest Builders 2 shines on PS4 and PC with stable, smooth performance, while the Switch struggles with frame drops, slowdowns, and long load times—though all versions remain playable despite technical hiccups.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

74

Positive Reviews (80-100)

27%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

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

The technical performance of Dragon Quest Builders 2 varies across platforms, with notable positives for the PlayStation 4 (PS4) and PC versions. On PS4, most reviewers praise its stability, with Eurogamer Italy noting "smooth gameplay with minor frame drops in intense situations" and PlayStation Universe calling it "very polished." The PS4 Pro version runs near stable 60fps, as highlighted by Worth Playing, while RPG Fan acknowledges improvements over the predecessor. The PC port also receives high marks, with Digital Chumps praising its "super smooth" performance and PC Invasion noting "solid performance" with adjustable settings. Cultured Vultures and GameSpot even commend the Nintendo Switch for running smoothly in docked or handheld modes, though they acknowledge minor issues. Overall, the PS4 and PC versions are seen as technically robust, offering a seamless experience despite some minor quirks. However, the Nintendo Switch version faces more significant technical challenges. Critics like DarkStation report it runs at 30fps with "occasional dips in performance," while Gameplanet notes "slowdowns and pop-in issues" in crowded areas. Forbes highlights "framerate issues" on Switch compared to the smoother PS4 version, and VGC mentions that the game "pushes the console hard," causing frame rate drops during intense battles. Loading times are a recurring complaint across platforms, with Daily Star citing long starts and GamesRadar+ mentioning freezes during text scenes. The PC port also has its flaws, as RPG Site points out a "CPU bottlenecking issue" and compatibility problems with AMD drivers, while PLAY! Zine notes optimization issues with occasional frame rate drops. These negatives suggest the Switch and PC versions require more tuning to match the PS4’s polish. Despite platform-specific issues, critics generally agree that Dragon Quest Builders 2 is a technically sound game with minor hiccups. The PS4 and PC versions are lauded for their stability and performance, while the Switch, though less optimized, remains playable despite frame rate fluctuations and loading delays. Hobby Consolas notes that "PS4 and Switch versions are essentially the same," emphasizing that differences are largely cosmetic. While some reviewers like InsideGamer.nl and Jeuxvideo.com criticize the Switch’s performance in dense environments, others such as Cultured Vultures and GameSpot find it stable enough for casual play. The consensus is that technical flaws—whether on Switch, PC, or PS4—are largely overshadowed by the game’s core mechanics and charm, making it a worthwhile experience despite its imperfections.

TL;DR

technical performance

Dragon Quest Builders 2 shines on PS4 and PC with stable, smooth performance, while the Switch struggles with frame drops, slowdowns, and long load times—though all versions remain playable despite technical hiccups.

84

TL;DR

Dragon Quest Builders 2 thrives on creative freedom, multiplayer chaos, and endless island-building fun—but repetitive grinding and uneven pacing risk boring players before they finish.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

84

Positive Reviews (80-100)

68%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

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

The majority of critics highlight the strong replay value of Dragon Quest Builders 2 through its emphasis on creativity, exploration, and multiplayer engagement. Reviewers like RPG Site and VGC emphasize the game’s ability to revisit past creations, explore diverse islands, and build new utopias, which offers a sense of endless possibilities. The inclusion of online co-op, shared constructions, and the ability to visit friends’ islands (noted by USgamer and Worth Playing) adds social dimensions that enhance longevity. Additionally, GameSpew and JeuxActu praise the game’s open-ended building mechanics and vast array of items, suggesting that players can sink hundreds of hours into creative experimentation. The postgame content, such as new islands and challenges (as mentioned by Cubed3 and RPG Fan), further reinforces the game’s appeal for those who enjoy sandbox-style gameplay. However, several critics point out limitations that could hinder replayability. Gameblog.fr and RPG Fan (PC) note that repetitive tasks and tedious mechanics, such as resource gathering or grinding, may wear on players over time. Cubed3 also mentions that the second half of the game feels less engaging compared to the first, while GameOver.gr criticizes the lack of carryover between islands, which could discourage repeated playthroughs. Additionally, some reviews, like TheXboxHub and FNintendo, suggest that the structured gameplay might feel monotonous for players seeking more dynamic challenges. The absence of explicit replayability features or clear goals in certain areas (as noted by GamePro Germany and PSX Extreme) also raises concerns about sustained interest beyond the initial campaign. Overall, the consensus among critics leans toward a positive assessment of Dragon Quest Builders 2’s replay value, with most agreeing that its creative freedom, multiplayer elements, and expansive world encourage long-term engagement. While some critiques highlight repetitive aspects or structural shortcomings, these are often balanced by praise for the game’s flexibility and depth. GameSpot and Jeuxvideo.com emphasize the game’s ability to reward exploration and creativity, while Gaming Age and DualShockers commend its enduring appeal through varied quests and customization. Despite mixed opinions on specific mechanics, the majority of reviewers agree that Dragon Quest Builders 2 offers a compelling experience for fans of building and open-world adventures, with replay value stemming from its social features, creative potential, and diverse gameplay loops.

TL;DR

replay value

Dragon Quest Builders 2 thrives on creative freedom, multiplayer chaos, and endless island-building fun—but repetitive grinding and uneven pacing risk boring players before they finish.

Overall verdict

Overall Verdict

80

MONSTER

Star Icon

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

80

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

12%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

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

The overall verdict of Dragon Quest Builders 2 is overwhelmingly positive, with critics praising its engaging building mechanics, charming world, and refined gameplay. Multiple reviewers highlight the game’s strengths in creative freedom and RPG elements, calling it a “great construction game” (IGN) and a “smart sequel” that addresses flaws from the original (TheXboxHub). The blend of sandbox creativity with JRPG storytelling is frequently lauded, with Gameblog.fr noting its “rich experience with a well-structured adventure” and Impulsegamer describing it as “utterly fun, adorable, and charming.” The game’s expansion on the first title—through larger worlds, improved community-building systems, and structured gameplay—has been celebrated by critics like Digital Chumps, who called it a “significant upgrade,” and RPGamer, who praised its appeal to both veterans and newcomers. The visual design and whimsical tone also shine, with GamesRadar+ noting its “quirky sense of humor” and Nintendo Life highlighting its “charming characters” and replay value. Despite these positives, several critics pointed out notable flaws, particularly in combat and narrative depth. RPG Fan and IGN both criticized the combat as “tedious” or “weak,” with the latter noting it lacks cohesion but is offset by exploration and crafting. Cultured Vultures and JeuxActu mentioned pacing issues and simplistic dialogue, while Gameblog.fr and Hobby Consolas pointed to technical hiccups and repetitive questlines. The game’s story, though praised for its charm, was occasionally seen as “simplistic” (IGN) or “dragging” (GamesRadar+), with some reviewers like Daily Star expressing frustration over NPC management and formulaic quests. Additionally, GamesRadar+ and Gameblog.fr noted technical issues on the Nintendo Switch version, though these were often framed as minor drawbacks rather than deal-breakers. The consensus among critics is that Dragon Quest Builders 2 is a strong, enjoyable sequel that successfully balances creativity with RPG elements, despite its imperfections. While combat and narrative depth are frequently cited as weaknesses, the majority of reviews emphasize its charm, accessibility, and improvements over the original. Critics like IGN, Digital Chumps, and RPGamer argue that the game’s strengths—such as its engaging building systems, character interaction, and structured gameplay—outweigh its flaws, making it a worthwhile experience for fans of the genre. Even reviewers with reservations, such as GameSpace and XboxAddict, acknowledged its value, with the latter giving it a 7.5/10. Ultimately, the game is seen as a standout title that refines its predecessor’s formula while offering a relaxing, creative experience, as noted by RPG Fan and Worth Playing, who called it “a highly recommended sequel” and “an impressive and memorable gaming experience.”

TL;DR

"Dragon Quest Builders 2" earns high praise for its creative building mechanics, charming world, and refined RPG blend, but struggles with clunky combat, simplistic story beats, and technical hiccups—yet its whimsical charm and improvements over the original make it a must-play for fans.

80

MONSTER

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Reviews

152 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.

Read full review

Full review

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.

Read full review

Full review

95

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.

Read full review

Full review

95

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.


95

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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Full review

95

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.


93

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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Full review

92

Digital Chumps

PC

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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Full review
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