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MONSTER

Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince
Item: Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Single Player

AvailableDec 1, 2023

PlatformPC, Nintendo Switch

DeveloperArmor Project

Overview

Journey into a fantastical world on a quest for revenge in DRAGON QUEST MONSTERS: The Dark Prince. Psaro is cursed and is unable to harm anything with monster blood. Now, he must become a Monster Wrangler to create an army for battle. The hunt for high-ranked monsters takes Psaro through the ever-changing seasons of Nadiria and its unique environments, with rivers of bubbling lava, mysterious ancient ruins, and soaring towers of cake. Along the way, Psaro meets the kind-hearted elf, Rose, who joins his adventure to seek out ever-stronger monsters. The key to Psaro's success lies with synthesis: the ability to combine two monsters and create a stronger offspring. Each new creation brings Psaro one step closer to his goal of becoming the Master of Monsterkind.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince is a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing origin story with a solid grip on monster-collecting mechanics and series callbacks, but its formulaic narrative, underdeveloped characters, and reliance on clichéd revenge tropes fail to deliver depth or emotional punch, making it a competent yet unremarkable entry in the franchise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

22%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

69%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince receives praise for its nostalgic ties to the broader Dragon Quest universe and its engaging, if formulaic, narrative structure. Critics like Digitally Downloaded highlight its well-written script, trademark humor, and steady pacing, while RPGamer commends its bold approach to reimagining Psaro’s origins as a villain, offering a fresh perspective on familiar lore. GamesHub and Nintenderos emphasize the anti-heroic appeal of Psaro, a half-human, half-demon protagonist driven by revenge, and note how the plot provides a sense of purpose for gameplay. Checkpoint Gaming and RPG Fan appreciate its role as an origin story for Dragon Quest IV’s antagonist, with callbacks to the main series that resonate with longtime fans. Additionally, Impulsegamer and Gaming Age acknowledge its simplicity and integration with monster-collecting mechanics, which they argue avoids feeling forced or disruptive. The narrative’s fairy-tale charm, as noted by Game Informer, and its balance of standalone appeal and series connections, as mentioned by Press Start Australia, further underscore its accessibility and nostalgic value. However, several critics find the story lacking in depth and emotional resonance. Digital Chumps and Meristation criticize its slow progression and underwhelming storytelling, while Checkpoint Gaming and GAMINGbible point to a silent protagonist and choppy narrative arcs that hinder immersion. Game Informer and TheSixthAxis note weakly developed motivations, making Psaro’s journey harder to connect with, and Hobby Consolas and God is a Geek describe the plot as dark but poorly executed or bland. Shacknews and CGMagazine argue that the story fails to fully commit to its premise or match the strength of Dragon Quest IV, with CGMagazine specifically highlighting its secondary focus on monster-collecting over narrative depth. Noisy Pixel and Vandal acknowledge cohesion issues, with the latter criticizing the protagonist’s lack of impact and the story’s reliance on clichéd revenge tropes. These critiques suggest the narrative struggles to elevate beyond its traditional framework, often prioritizing gameplay over character development. Overall, the consensus leans toward a mixed but generally favorable reception, with critics recognizing the story as a competent, if unremarkable, entry in the Dragon Quest franchise. While many praise its connections to the series, charm, and gameplay integration, others find it derivative or emotionally flat. Digitally Downloaded and RPGamer stand out for their positive take on its narrative ambition, whereas Digital Chumps and GAMINGbible highlight its shortcomings. The story’s simplicity and reliance on familiar tropes, as noted by Games.CH and Hardcore Gamer, make it approachable but not particularly innovative. Despite varied opinions, most agree it serves as a solid foundation for the game’s monster-taming mechanics, even if it doesn’t fully capitalize on its potential to deliver a groundbreaking or deeply immersive tale. Ultimately, it’s seen as a nostalgic, if not revolutionary, addition to the series that balances accessibility with the occasional misstep.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince dazzles with a massive monster roster, creative fusion systems, and strategic depth, but repetitive combat and grind-heavy mechanics drag it down. While it leans on Pokémon-like formulas, unique touches like the "Scout" system and environmental play keep it fresh, delivering a rewarding, if occasionally tedious, monster-collecting experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

74%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

26%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince is widely praised for its engaging monster-collecting and customization mechanics, which form the core of its appeal. Critics like Digitally Downloaded and RPGamer highlight the vast roster of over 500 monsters to collect, breed, and fuse, emphasizing the strategic depth and variety this offers. GamesHub and Noisy Pixel commend the freedom to experiment with combat strategies and the addictive nature of the gameplay loop, while Checkpoint Gaming and Impulsegamer note the fusion system as a standout feature that encourages creativity and replayability. The turn-based battles, though simple, are described as "fun" by Digital Chumps and "a blast" by God is a Geek, with Vandal and TheSixthAxis appreciating the structured yet flexible approach to recruiting and developing monsters. Many reviewers also draw comparisons to Pokémon, with Gaming Age and SpazioGames acknowledging the familiar formula while emphasizing unique elements like the "Scout" system and environmental mechanics that add freshness to the experience. However, several critics point to notable flaws in the gameplay, particularly its repetitive combat and reliance on grinding. But Why Tho? and Cubed3 criticize the turn-based battles as "shallow" and "passive," respectively, arguing that they lack complexity and distinct monster weaknesses. Game Informer and RPG Fan mention the need for excessive grinding to level up new monsters, which can test patience, while GamesHub and SpazioGames note that the combat feels repetitive despite its strategic potential. Checkpoint Gaming also highlights the early game's sluggishness due to performance issues and repetitive tasks, though they acknowledge improvements later on. Additionally, some reviewers, like Impulsegamer and SpazioGames, point out that the battle system doesn’t introduce new mechanics, relying on a traditional framework that may feel underwhelming to those seeking innovation. These critiques suggest that while the game’s core systems are solid, they occasionally fall into formulaic or tedious patterns. Overall, the consensus among critics leans positive, with the monster collection, fusion, and customization systems being the game’s strongest assets. While there are criticisms about the combat’s simplicity and grind-heavy progression, these are often balanced by praise for the game’s accessibility, replayability, and depth in team-building. Noisy Pixel and Shacknews describe the gameplay as "addictive" and "rewarding," respectively, while RPGamer and Digital Trends emphasize its adaptability and strategic potential. The game’s similarities to Pokémon and other monster-raising titles are seen as both a strength and a limitation, with some reviewers like Multiplayer.it noting its streamlined approach to appeal to a broader audience. Despite its flaws, the majority of critics agree that Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince delivers a satisfying and immersive experience for fans of the genre, with its monster-centric systems remaining the highlight.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince shines with whimsical, varied monster designs and a vibrant anime-inspired art style, but technical hiccups on Switch—choppy frames, texture pop-in, and sluggish load times—sink its visuals, turning creativity into a double-edged sword that struggles to deliver a smooth experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

77%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

16%

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

The Graphics and Visual Design of Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince receive praise for their charm and creativity, particularly in monster designs and art direction. Critics like But Why Tho? highlight that the game’s monster designs are "creative and varied," while Digital Trends and God is a Geek commend their "charming and varied" nature, noting that they are "goofy and endearing." The art style is often described as fitting the game’s genre, with Impulsegamer appreciating its "cartoonish style that fits the genre of the game" and Multiplayer.it comparing it to an "anime" aesthetic. Additionally, RPGamer praises the "detailed and charming character models and environments," and Checkpoint Gaming acknowledges the "visually appealing" varied environments. The seasonal system, mentioned by Digitally Downloaded and SpazioGames, adds visual diversity, transforming locales with distinct seasonal aesthetics and monster populations, which some reviewers find intriguing despite technical shortcomings. However, the negatives dominate discussions around performance and technical execution. Multiple critics, including Checkpoint Gaming, Cubed3, GamesHub, and Shacknews, point to issues like "low draw distance," "texture pop-in," "choppy frame rate," and "frequent loading pauses," which detract from the experience on the Nintendo Switch. Digital Chumps and Hobby Consolas criticize the "unremarkable landscapes" and "empty, lifeless" environments, while Eurogamer Germany and Vandal note "outdated" visuals and "slow frame rates." RPG Fan mentions "simplistic UI" and long loading times, and Worth Playing highlights that the game's "simple and cartoony" graphics "run poorly" despite basic environments. Many reviewers, such as Digitally Downloaded and SpazioGames, argue that these technical flaws undermine the visual appeal, especially in open-world areas where performance dips are most noticeable. Even But Why Tho? acknowledges that character models lack detail, and Game Informer criticizes the "repetitive, cyclical world." Overall, the consensus leans toward a mixed reception, with the game’s visual charm and monster designs balancing its technical shortcomings. While critics like RPGamer and Impulsegamer appreciate the distinct visual identity and creative elements, the recurring complaints about performance issues—such as frame rate drops and texture problems—cast a shadow over the experience. Digital Trends and Vandal compare the graphics unfavorably to other titles like Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, yet GAMINGbible and Multiplayer.it find the "charming retro graphics" and "clean and detailed" presentation acceptable for the series’ style. The game’s art direction and monster variety are seen as strengths, but the technical limitations on the Switch, as noted by GamesHub and Shacknews, make these positives feel compromised. While some reviewers, like TheSixthAxis, remain ambiguous about whether the criticism applies to graphics or visual design, the majority agree that the game’s visuals are a double-edged sword—endearing in concept but hindered by execution.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince’s soundtrack is a nostalgic, charm-filled homage to the franchise, with familiar Dragon Quest IV tracks and dynamic voice acting earning praise. However, repetitive MIDI compositions and subpar sound effects draw criticism, with some calling it a "mixed bag" and lacking originality. While it delivers a solid, traditional experience, fans crave more innovation in future entries.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

17%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

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 Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince leans positively, with several critics praising the soundtrack for its familiarity and charm. Gaming Age and Noisy Pixel both highlight the music as quintessential to the Dragon Quest franchise, with Noisy Pixel noting that it "is what you would expect from a Dragon Quest game." Hobby Consolas and RPGamer acknowledge the use of familiar tracks, particularly from Dragon Quest IV, which adds a nostalgic appeal. Meristation and SpazioGames also express appreciation for the soundtrack, with the latter mentioning that it includes "familiar tracks and some new additions." Additionally, RPG Fan and Hobby Consolas note that the music, while reusing older material, captures the essence of the series and contributes to its charm. The presence of voice acting in both English and Japanese, as mentioned by Noisy Pixel and Nintenderos, further enhances the game’s atmosphere, with RPG Fan emphasizing the "dynamic performances in the English voice cast." However, some critics found the sound design and music to be lacking in originality and quality. Hobby Consolas specifically criticized the sound design as "subpar," pointing to "low-quality sound effects" and "forgettable music." Multiplayer.it noted that the soundtrack was "repetitive," relying on "the same midi tracks from previous Dragon Quest games," which suggests a lack of innovation. This sentiment is echoed by RPGamer, who described the music as a "mixed bag" due to the reuse of tracks from Dragon Quest IV and earlier Monsters games. While these critiques do not entirely dismiss the music, they highlight concerns about its freshness and the potential for future entries to offer more original compositions. Despite the mixed feedback, the overall consensus among critics is that the music and sound design of Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince are largely in line with the series’ established style, offering a nostalgic and familiar experience for fans. While some reviewers found the soundtrack to be repetitive or underwhelming, many others appreciated its charm and connection to the franchise’s legacy. The voice acting, particularly in English, is seen as a positive aspect by several critics, adding character and fun to the game. Ultimately, the sound design and music are viewed as a solid but not groundbreaking part of the game, fitting well within the Dragon Quest tradition while leaving room for improvement in future installments.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince's voice acting is a hit-and-miss affair: charming, whimsical performances and authentic Japanese accents lift the game's tone, but a silent protagonist and poor English voice work undermine emotional engagement, leaving critics divided between delight and frustration.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

18%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince receives mixed but generally positive reception, with several critics highlighting its charm and atmospheric contributions. Gaming Age praises the over-the-top stereotypical accents for enhancing the game’s fairytale-like whimsy, while Noisy Pixel describes the English voice acting as “cheesy and charming,” adding to the overall experience. RPG Fan also commends the “dynamic performances” of the English voice cast, noting the charm and variety in dialects. Additionally, the presence of Japanese voice acting, as noted by Nintenderos, provides an authentic cultural touch, and TheSixthAxis appreciates the general inclusion of voice acting, even if they don’t delve into specifics. These positives suggest that the voice work, while not universally flawless, successfully contributes to the game’s lighthearted and fantastical tone. However, several critics point to significant drawbacks, particularly regarding the silent protagonist and the quality of the voice acting. Checkpoint Gaming and Press Start Australia both criticize the “silent protagonist” for undermining emotional engagement, as the lack of voice lines makes interactions feel one-sided and jarring, especially when other characters are vocally expressive. GAMINGbible and Hobby Consolas specifically call out the low quality of English voice acting, with the latter noting it detracts from the overall audio experience. Malditos Nerds and RPGamer also express disappointment in Psaro’s silence, arguing that it diminishes his character’s impact and feels like a letdown for fans familiar with his previous portrayals. These critiques highlight a disconnect between the game’s ambitious voice work and its execution, particularly in key narrative moments. Overall, the critical consensus leans toward a balanced view, acknowledging both the charm and the flaws. While many praise the voice acting’s contribution to the game’s whimsical atmosphere and dynamic performances, the lack of a voiced protagonist and inconsistent quality in some voice tracks remain notable issues. Critics like Noisy Pixel and Gaming Age emphasize the charm of the English cast, but others, such as Hobby Consolas and RPGamer, stress that these positives are overshadowed by technical shortcomings. The presence of Japanese voice acting offers a contrast, but it doesn’t fully address the narrative gaps caused by the protagonist’s silence. Ultimately, the voice acting is seen as a mixed bag—capable of enhancing the experience for some, but a source of frustration for others due to its uneven execution.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince stumbles on Nintendo Switch with shaky performance, frame drops, and glitches, making it a frustrating experience — though minor fixes exist, the PC version is smoother. Technical flaws overshadow its charm, making it a tough sell for Switch users.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

46%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

50%

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

The technical performance of Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince on the Nintendo Switch is largely criticized, but there are a few nuanced positives. RPGamer acknowledges that performance has improved since launch through updates, noting "minor performance hiccups" but an overall "stable experience," while CGMagazine highlights that the PC version runs smoothly with "high frame rates," suggesting the game’s technical issues may be platform-specific. Some critics, like Game Informer and Nintenderos, downplay the severity of performance dips, stating they are "minor" or "not significantly affect[ing] the overall experience." These remarks indicate that while the Switch version is flawed, it remains playable, and the PC port offers a more polished alternative. However, these positives are overshadowed by widespread concerns about optimization and stability. The negatives for the Nintendo Switch version are extensive and consistent across most reviews. Critics like But Why Tho? and Checkpoint Gaming cite "constant frame rate dips," "load screens," "occasional freezes," and "stop-motion animation," while Cubed3 and GamesHub compare the Switch port unfavorably to Dragon Quest XI, calling it "worse." Issues like "texture pop-in," "low resolution," and "choppy frame rates" are repeatedly mentioned, with Digital Trends and Nintendo Life noting "long load times" and "crashes." Even critics like God is a Geek and Hardcore Gamer describe the performance as "unacceptable" or unsuitable for households with multiple players. The PC version, while praised by CGMagazine for its stability, is not discussed in detail by other reviewers, leaving the Switch’s technical shortcomings as the primary focus. These issues collectively paint a picture of a game that struggles to meet expectations on its primary platform. The overall consensus among critics is that Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince suffers from significant technical issues on the Nintendo Switch, with only minor improvements noted over time. While a few reviewers, like RPGamer and Nintenderos, suggest that the problems are manageable, the majority—such as Digitally Downloaded, Eurogamer Germany, and SpazioGames—highlight persistent flaws that detract from the experience. The PC version, though not extensively reviewed, is seen as a more stable alternative. Despite these challenges, the game’s core mechanics and charm may still appeal to fans, but the technical performance on the Switch remains a major hurdle. Critics like Noisy Pixel and Vandal emphasize that the game’s frame rate issues and optimization problems are dealbreakers for many, underscoring a lack of polish that hampers its overall reception.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince delivers massive replay value with 500+ monsters, a 40-hour story, addictive capture/synthesis loops, and robust online/seasonal content—perfect for genre fans. But its lack of innovation, grindy progression, and shallow mechanics (no compendium, strength-based recruitment) may alienate newcomers. A solid, if slight, entry for dedicated players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The critics overwhelmingly highlight the strong positives in Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince’s replay value, emphasizing its expansive content and engaging systems. Cubed3 notes the game’s “over 500 monsters and 40 hours of main story,” while Impulsegamer and Meristation praise the addictive gameplay loop of capturing and synthesizing monsters. Digital Trends and GamesHub commend the fusion system and monster collecting mechanics, which drive players to explore and experiment. The game’s online multiplayer features, including ranked battles and tournaments (Nintenderos, TheSixthAxis), and post-game content like seasonal updates (Vandal) further enhance its longevity. RPGamer and Noisy Pixel also highlight the satisfaction of building custom teams and the post-game depth, while Hobby Consolas and Multiplayer.it point to competitive breeding and combat as key draws. These elements collectively create a robust foundation for repeated playthroughs. However, several critics point to notable limitations that may hinder long-term engagement. Digital Trends and GamesHub note the lack of evolution or innovation compared to competitors, while Multiplayer.it criticizes the absence of a compendium for recovering consumed monsters and a reliance on strength-based recruitment. RPG Fan mentions the grind-heavy level progression, which might deter some players, and Worth Playing highlights the limited appeal of online multiplayer without top-tier teams. Additionally, while the game’s 500+ monsters are praised (SpazioGames), some feel the diversity of environments and mechanics falls short of expectations. These critiques suggest that while the core systems are strong, certain design choices may reduce the game’s appeal for players seeking deeper or more varied challenges. Despite these drawbacks, the overall consensus among critics is that Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince offers solid replay value, particularly for fans of the monster-catching genre. Most reviewers agree that the game’s combination of exploration, customization, and online features provides substantial content, even if it doesn’t fully innovate. Cubed3, Digital Trends, and Noisy Pixel all emphasize the game’s addictive nature and post-game engagement, while Hobby Consolas and TheSixthAxis highlight competitive elements that encourage repeated play. While some critics like GamesHub and RPG Fan acknowledge its shortcomings, the majority view it as a worthwhile experience with enough depth to justify multiple playthroughs. The balance between its strengths and weaknesses suggests it appeals most to dedicated fans of the series and monster-collecting mechanics, even if it doesn’t surpass its peers in every aspect.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

39%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

61%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment of the critics regarding Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince highlights several positive aspects that resonate with fans of the series and monster-collecting RPGs. Many reviewers praise the game’s engaging monster-training mechanics, turn-based combat, and the nostalgic return to the world of Dragon Quest IV, which adds a layer of familiarity and charm. For instance, RPGamer commends the deep monster mechanics, while Noisy Pixel notes the addictive gameplay and player freedom, calling it a worthy resurgence for the spin-off series. GamesHub and RPG Fan both appreciate the game’s balance of darker tone with fun and humor, and Digital Chumps and Impulsegamer suggest it could be a satisfying alternative for fans of Pokémon or Yokai Watch. Additionally, Digitally Downloaded calls it an "exceptional return" for the series, indicating that it holds promise for those looking for a serious alternative to Pokémon. However, the game is frequently criticized for its technical and presentation flaws, which many feel hold it back from being a more polished experience. But Why Tho? and Checkpoint Gaming point out performance issues that detract from the exploration and grinding, while Digital Trends and Impulsegamer note that the technical shortcomings and outdated visuals hinder the overall enjoyment. Eurogamer Germany and God is a Geek both mention that the game requires overlooking its technical problems, and Hobby Consolas and SpazioGames highlight that it feels outdated in terms of graphics, sound, and level design. Shacknews criticizes the poor technical performance and disappointing story execution, and Vandal points to frame rate issues and texture pop-in as areas needing improvement. These criticisms suggest that while the gameplay is enjoyable, the technical execution is a major concern for many players. Despite these drawbacks, the overall consensus among critics leans toward a recommendation for Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince, particularly for fans of the series or those interested in monster-collecting RPGs. While some reviewers, like GAMINGbible, give it an average rating, others, such as Digitally Downloaded and TheSixthAxis, still highly recommend it despite its flaws. CGMagazine notes that the PC port is a solid experience without performance issues, which may offer a better version of the game. Most critics agree that the game is best suited for hardcore Dragon Quest fans who can overlook its technical and narrative shortcomings in favor of its core gameplay and monster mechanics. Overall, it’s seen as a nostalgic, fun, and serviceable entry that, while not perfect, has enough charm and depth to justify its place in the series.

TL;DR

Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince blends nostalgic charm and addictive monster-training mechanics with turn-based combat, but technical glitches, outdated visuals, and a weak story drag it down. A fun, serviceable spin-off for fans who prioritize gameplay over polish.

MONSTER

Reviews

55 reviews found

Digitally Downloaded

Nintendo Switch

Dec 8, 2023

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

The review describes Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince as an exceptional return for the series and suggests that it has the opportunity to break through, especially with Pokémon not meeting universal acclaim. The reviewer recommends buying the game.

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RPG Fan

Nintendo Switch

Jan 3, 2024

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

Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince is an enjoyable monster-collecting spin-off that captures the charm and appeal of the Dragon Quest series. It is a welcome addition to the lineup for returning fans and potential newcomers.

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Nintenderos

Nintendo Switch

Dec 4, 2023

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

Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince is a comprehensive monster-capturing game with a nostalgic story set in the world of Dragon Quest IV. While lacking complexity, it will be highly enjoyable for fans of the series.

Hey Poor Player

Nintendo Switch

Dec 14, 2023

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

The game is described as a wonderfully whimsical and delightfully dark entry into the Dragon Quest Monsters franchise, with some shortcomings in graphics and lack of free-roaming experience.

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TheSixthAxis

Nintendo Switch

Dec 10, 2023

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

The reviewer overall enjoys the game and praises the monster-catching and synthesizing mechanics. They mention that it's not everything they wanted it to be, but still highly recommend it.

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RPGamer

Nintendo Switch

Apr 24, 2024

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

Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince offers a compelling return for the series with deep monster mechanics, engaging exploration, and innovative fusion system. While narrative execution and post-game content have some shortcomings, the core gameplay loop is undeniably fun and satisfying for fans of the genre.

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Noisy Pixel

Nintendo Switch

Dec 8, 2023

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

Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince is a worthy resurgence for the beloved spinoff series. Despite some flaws in the narrative pacing and technical performance, the addictive gameplay and player freedom make up for it. Fans of Dragon Quest IV will particularly enjoy this game, but newcomers can still find themselves invested and enthralled.

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Gaming Age

Nintendo Switch

Jan 2, 2024

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

Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince is a fun entry point into the series that doesn't require prior knowledge. It delivers solidly on the monster-training gameplay and has a colorful cast of characters. However, it may not stand out enough for some players and the art style may not appeal to everyone.

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Shacknews

Nintendo Switch

Dec 14, 2023

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

The game has an intriguing story and soundly structured gameplay, but suffers from poor technical performance and a disappointing story execution.

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CGMagazine

Sep 14, 2024

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

Overall, it is a solid port of an underrated game, now free from performance issues, making it a good choice for fans.

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