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Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake
Item: Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresFantasy, Adventure, RPG, Top-Down Perspective, Anime and JRPG, Strategy, Single Player

AvailableOct 30, 2025

PlatformNintendo Switch, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5, PC

DeveloperArtdink

Overview

DRAGON QUEST I & II HD-2D Remake will continue the classic RPG trilogy’s narrative, offering players two adventures to undertake in DRAGON QUEST I and DRAGON QUEST II.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

The Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake is largely praised for enhancing the stories with richer character development, emotional depth, and new features like voice acting and cutscenes. Critics highlight Dragon Quest II as the standout, offering more engaging narratives. However, some note that both games suffer from predictability and a lack of complexity, with the original charm feeling dated. Overall, the remakes successfully modernize classic tales while retaining a nostalgic RPG feel, appealing to both new and longtime fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

66%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

34%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the story of Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake is largely positive, with many critics praising the enhancements made to the narrative. Reviewers like COGconnected and Game Informer highlight how the remakes have expanded the original stories, providing richer character development and emotional depth, particularly in Dragon Quest II. Critics such as GamingTrend and Nintendo Insider commend the inclusion of new characters, locations, and subquests, which transform the original narratives into more engaging experiences. The addition of voice acting and cutscenes has also been noted as a significant improvement, with MMORPG.com and Final Weapon emphasizing how these elements enhance the impactful story beats and overall narrative flow. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the depth and complexity of the stories in both games. GameSpot and Multiplayer.it point out that Dragon Quest I suffers from a lack of character connection and a minimalistic plot, while Dragon Quest II, despite being more engaging, still adheres to a somewhat predictable narrative structure. Critics like KonsoliFIN and Hobby Consolas mention that while the stories maintain their classic charm, they feel dated and overly scripted, lacking the humor and complexity found in more modern entries in the genre. Additionally, some reviewers, such as RPG Fan and Critical Hits, argue that the enhancements in Dragon Quest I can detract from its original simplicity, making it feel forced at times. The overall consensus among critics is that while the remakes of Dragon Quest I & II successfully modernize the narratives and enhance character interactions, they still retain a traditional RPG feel that may not appeal to everyone. Many critics agree that Dragon Quest II benefits more from these enhancements, offering a deeper and more engaging story compared to its predecessor. The remakes are seen as a nostalgic journey that successfully ties the narratives together, as noted by critics like IGN and Forbes, creating a cohesive experience that connects the two games and sets the stage for future installments. Despite some criticisms regarding predictability and depth, the remakes are generally regarded as a successful revival of classic narratives, appealing to both new players and long-time fans of the series.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake impresses critics with modern upgrades like auto-saving and new combat mechanics, enhancing accessibility and engagement, especially in Dragon Quest II. However, Dragon Quest I suffers from frustrating gameplay and dated elements, leading to mixed reviews. While the remake updates the charm of the originals, it struggles with some classic design flaws, leaving both newcomers and veterans with divided opinions.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

57%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

43%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake has garnered a generally positive reception among critics, highlighting various improvements that enhance the traditional RPG experience. Many reviewers, such as Meristation and IGN Italia, praised the introduction of quality-of-life features like auto-saving, adjustable difficulty levels, and new combat mechanics that allow for multiple enemies in battles. These enhancements not only modernize the gameplay but also make it more accessible to a broader audience. Critics like GAMINGbible and GameSpot noted that the combat system has evolved to include new spells and tactical options, contributing to a more engaging experience, especially in Dragon Quest II, which benefits from a party system that adds depth and variety to gameplay. However, the remake is not without its criticisms. A number of reviewers, including RPGamer and Nintendo Life, pointed out that Dragon Quest I can feel frustrating due to its increased enemy numbers and the limitations of solo play, leading to a more tedious experience. While Dragon Quest II introduces a party system that alleviates some of these issues, critics like Inverse and Combo Infinito mentioned that the lack of a profession system and certain design choices, such as the collectible medals tied to story progression, can detract from the overall enjoyment. Additionally, some players expressed that the gameplay still feels dated compared to modern RPG standards, as highlighted by Gamesurf and Hobby Consolas. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake successfully retains the charm of the original titles with its turn-based combat and exploration, it also introduces several modern enhancements that improve the gameplay experience. However, there remains a divide in how well these improvements address the inherent challenges of Dragon Quest I compared to the more polished experience of Dragon Quest II. Critics like Worth Playing and Gameliner encapsulate this sentiment, acknowledging that while the remake offers significant updates, some aspects still reflect the limitations of classic RPG design, making it a mixed bag for both newcomers and veterans of the series.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake is visually stunning, earning acclaim for its charming HD-2D aesthetic that blends pixel art with modern 3D. Critics rave about its vibrant colors and detailed character designs by Akira Toriyama, enhancing the classic feel. However, some note performance issues in handheld mode and limited animations as drawbacks. Overall, it modernizes the originals while preserving their charm, making it a visual triumph for both new and veteran players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

98%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of the Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake have been met with widespread acclaim from critics, who praised the game's charming HD-2D aesthetic. Reviewers like Combo Infinito and COGconnected highlighted the effective blend of pixel art with modern 3D environments, which captures the essence of the classic Dragon Quest series while providing a fresh visual experience. Critics noted the vibrant and warm color palette, with Jeuxvideo.com and Nintendo Insider emphasizing how these graphics enhance the overall aesthetic, fitting seamlessly within the franchise's legacy. The character designs, particularly those by Akira Toriyama, have also been lauded for their vibrancy and detail, with Hobby Consolas and IGN Spain acknowledging the successful modernization of these beloved characters. Despite the overall positive reception, some critics pointed out certain shortcomings in the visual design. For instance, Combo Infinito noted that while the HD-2D style is charming, it lacks the impression of a true remake, and performance issues in handheld mode were mentioned as a detractor. Additionally, Nintenduo and PlayStation Universe observed that the absence of dynamic features like a day-night cycle could diminish some visual effects, which could have further enriched the game's environments. Furthermore, while many praised the character animations, some, like RPGamer, pointed out that the animations could be somewhat limited, which may affect immersion. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake delivers a visually stunning experience that successfully modernizes the classic titles while retaining their charm. Reviewers such as LevelUp and Game Informer noted the significant improvement over the original NES versions, with vibrant environments and detailed sprites that enhance the gameplay experience. The majority of critics, including those from IGN and Meristation, agree that the game’s graphics are a highlight, showcasing Square Enix's dedication to quality and artistic direction. Despite a few criticisms regarding performance and animation limitations, the overwhelming sentiment is that the visual design is a triumph, appealing to both new players and longtime fans of the series.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics are raving about the sound design and music in the Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake, praising the reorchestrated soundtrack and high-quality voice acting that enhance gameplay. While some noted issues with track variety and a desire for original music options, the overall response is overwhelmingly positive. The remakes successfully modernize the classics while retaining their charm, making for an enriching auditory experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

12%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the sound design and music of the Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake is overwhelmingly positive among critics. Many reviewers praised the reorchestrated soundtrack, highlighting the contributions of the late Koichi Sugiyama. Critics like Combo Infinito and RPGamer noted that the orchestral arrangements significantly enhance the sense of adventure and emotional impact of the gameplay. The inclusion of high-quality voice acting, particularly in Dragon Quest II, was also frequently mentioned as a major improvement that adds depth to character interactions, with reviewers from Final Weapon and Inverse emphasizing how this elevates the overall experience. The Tokyo Metropolitan Symphony's performance received acclaim for its ability to create a whimsical atmosphere, as noted by Nintendo Life and IGN Italia, further enriching the nostalgic feel of the remakes. However, some criticisms were raised regarding the soundtrack's variety and potential repetitiveness. Critics like Jeuxvideo.com pointed out that while the orchestral music is beautiful, certain tracks can become monotonous over time. Additionally, Worth Playing mentioned that the remixed tracks, while functional, lacked creativity, suggesting that the new arrangements did not always capture the originality of the classics. Some reviewers, such as ComicBook, expressed disappointment over the absence of an option to switch back to the original music, indicating a desire for more flexibility in experiencing the game's audio. Despite these minor critiques, the overall consensus among critics is that the sound design and music in Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake are exceptional and significantly enhance the gaming experience. The combination of high-quality orchestration and improved voice acting has been widely recognized as a successful modernization of the classic titles, with critics like TechRadar Gaming and Gameliner praising the majestic and emotive qualities of the new score. Ultimately, the remakes have been celebrated for their ability to maintain the charm of the originals while providing a fresh auditory experience, making them a worthy addition to the franchise.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake is highly praised for its quality and emotional depth, significantly enhancing storytelling and character dynamics. While critics love the bilingual options and the boost to narrative immersion, some note the limited coverage and Old English dialogue may feel excessive. Overall, it’s a standout feature that adds charm and engagement to the game.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in the Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake has received considerable praise from critics, highlighting its positive impact on the game's overall experience. Many reviewers, such as Final Weapon and TechRadar Gaming, noted the superb quality of the Japanese voice acting, emphasizing its ability to convey character expression and depth. Critics like Game Informer and Nintenderos echoed this sentiment, stating that the voice acting enhances character dynamics and storytelling, making the narrative more immersive. The inclusion of voice acting in both English and Japanese was also lauded for adding emotional weight and personality to key moments, as pointed out by MMORPG.com and Forbes. Overall, the voice acting has been described as a significant improvement over the original titles, with many critics acknowledging its contribution to humor and character development. Despite the overall positive reception, some critics pointed out limitations in the voice acting implementation. Combo Infinito and IGN Benelux mentioned that while there is notable voice acting, it is not comprehensive, with only select dialogues and character introductions being voiced. Critics like MGG and Checkpoint Gaming expressed a desire for more extensive voice coverage throughout the main story, suggesting that the sparse nature of the voice acting could leave some players wanting more. Additionally, Player 2 noted that the Old English influence in the dialogue could sometimes feel excessive, potentially detracting from the overall experience for some players. The consensus among critics is largely favorable, with many agreeing that the voice acting significantly enhances the storytelling and character interactions in Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake. While there are some calls for more extensive voice coverage, the general sentiment is that the quality of the voice performances adds depth and energy to the narrative, as highlighted by critics like COGconnected and Vandal. The combination of both English and Japanese voice acting options has been appreciated, allowing players to connect more deeply with the characters and their stories. Overall, the voice acting stands out as a noteworthy aspect of the remake, contributing positively to the game's charm and engagement.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake is well-received for its performance on various platforms, particularly the Nintendo Switch 2, which boasts smooth gameplay but suffers from graphical blur in performance mode. Critics praise vibrant visuals and quality-of-life improvements but note inconsistencies with physical media on different consoles. The PS5 version shines with flawless 4K and 60 FPS performance, though it faces some balance issues. Overall, both versions deliver a solid experience, despite minor drawbacks.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

59%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

41%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake across different gaming platforms has generally received a positive reception from critics. On the Nintendo Switch 2, several reviewers, including Final Weapon and NintendoWorldReport, praised the game for its smooth performance, with no significant frame drops reported. Critics like Multiplayer.it highlighted the vibrant colors and well-designed environments, while others, such as Nintenderos, noted the inclusion of modernized interfaces and quality-of-life improvements that enhance overall playability. The game also offers options for adjusting graphics and performance, which is appreciated by critics like IGN Benelux, who mentioned the various gameplay adjustments available. However, there are notable negatives associated with the Nintendo Switch 2 version. Combo Infinito pointed out the blurriness in performance mode, indicating a compromise between frame rate and visual clarity. Critics like Nintenduo echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need to sacrifice visual quality for a higher frame rate. Additionally, while some reviews, such as those from Jeuxvideo.com and KonsoliFIN, acknowledged the game's smooth performance, they also mentioned issues with the physical media versions on different consoles, suggesting inconsistencies in experience across various formats. On the other hand, the PS5 version has its own set of critiques, with some reviewers like COGconnected mentioning balance issues and complaints about battle speed, although these were not universally echoed. Overall, the consensus among critics for both platforms leans towards a favorable view of the technical performance of Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake. The Nintendo Switch 2 version is generally seen as stable, with a few criticisms regarding the trade-offs in graphical fidelity and frame rates. In contrast, the PS5 version is widely regarded as having excellent performance, with critics like Wccftech noting its flawless operation at 4K resolution and 60 FPS. While minor issues were raised across both platforms, the majority of reviewers, including those from IGN Spain and Metro GameCentral, found the game to provide a smooth and enjoyable experience, bolstered by modern quality-of-life improvements that cater to a wide audience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Critics are largely positive about the replay value of Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake, praising new content and quality of life improvements that enhance the experience for both new and veteran players. However, concerns about repetitiveness and outdated mechanics may deter some, particularly newcomers. Despite these issues, the remakes successfully blend nostalgia with fresh features, making them worthwhile for fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

42%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions of various critics regarding the replay value of Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake reveal a generally positive sentiment, particularly highlighting the enhancements made in the remakes. Many reviewers, such as Digitally Downloaded and IGN, emphasize the addition of new content, side quests, and gameplay mechanics that enrich the experience for both new players and veterans of the series. Critics like Nintendo Insider and Gameliner note that the expanded content and quality of life improvements significantly contribute to the replayability, making the games more engaging. The ability to toggle objective markers and explore at one's own pace, as mentioned by IGN, further enhances the experience, allowing players to discover new elements and revisit the game with fresh perspectives. However, there are notable concerns regarding the replay value, particularly related to the potential repetitiveness and dated mechanics of the gameplay. Critics such as Jeuxvideo.com and Retcon point out that while the remakes offer nostalgia, some archaic design choices and frustrating elements may deter players from returning. Additionally, KonsoliFIN raises the issue that the game might not be the best introduction for newcomers to the RPG genre, which could limit its replay value for that demographic. Shacknews echoes this sentiment, suggesting that the difficulty of Dragon Quest I may discourage players from replaying it, while also acknowledging that Dragon Quest II offers a more enjoyable experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake provides a solid replay value, particularly for fans of the series, thanks to the new content and quality of life improvements. While some reviewers express concerns about potential repetitiveness and the appeal to newcomers, the majority agree that the remakes successfully enhance the original experiences. Critics like Game Informer and TechRadar Gaming highlight the value of the collection, suggesting that the combination of nostalgia and new features creates a compelling reason for players to revisit these classic titles.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

91%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding the Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its modernization of classic titles. Reviewers like GAMES.CH and Game Informer commend the remake for honoring the original games while enhancing visuals, music, and gameplay mechanics, making it appealing to both nostalgic fans and new players. The HD-2D art style has been highlighted as a standout feature, with critics such as TechRadar Gaming and Meristation referring to the visuals as stunning and engaging. Additionally, many reviewers, including IGN and Nintendo Insider, note that the remakes serve as a definitive way to experience the classics, with substantial improvements across the board, making it a worthwhile addition to the franchise. However, not all feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Critics like Shacknews express disappointment with Dragon Quest I, suggesting that it feels flawed compared to its sequel, which received more praise. Others, such as GameSpot and RPG Fan, echo similar sentiments, indicating that while Dragon Quest II shines, Dragon Quest I struggles to resonate as strongly with players, leading to a mixed experience. Additionally, some reviews mention technical limitations and pacing issues, which detract from the overall enjoyment of the remakes. These criticisms suggest that while the remake successfully modernizes the classics, it doesn't fully escape the limitations of the original titles. Despite the mixed feelings regarding Dragon Quest I, the overall consensus among critics is that the Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake is a commendable effort that successfully revitalizes the classic RPGs. Many reviewers, including those from IGN Italia, Vandal, and GamersRD, agree that the remakes capture the essence of the original games while providing modern enhancements that appeal to a broad audience. The majority of critics consider it a strong recommendation for both fans of the series and newcomers, highlighting its nostalgic charm and modern execution. Overall, the remakes are seen as a significant achievement in bringing these foundational JRPGs to contemporary audiences, with many reviewers suggesting that they are essential experiences for anyone interested in the genre.

TL;DR

TLDR: The Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake has garnered mostly positive reviews for modernizing the classics with stunning visuals and improved gameplay, appealing to both nostalgic fans and newcomers. Critics praise its enhancements but note flaws in Dragon Quest I, which struggles compared to its sequel. Despite some technical issues, the remakes are recognized as a commendable effort that revitalizes these foundational JRPGs, making them essential for genre enthusiasts.

MONSTER

Reviews

80 reviews found

100

Forbes

PlayStation 5

Oct 29, 2025