Search for games

Type three or more characters to search...

Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition cover image

Links

Amazon

MONSTER

Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition
Item: Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2019

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Open World, RPG, Top-Down Perspective, Anime and JRPG, Casual, Single Player

AvailableSep 27, 2019

PlatformXbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch

DeveloperSquare Enix

Overview

Ready for a grand adventure filled with memorable characters, an enchanting story and classic RPG gameplay that can be taken on the go? This definitive version of the critically acclaimed game features the same sprawling content of the original, but with newly added character-specific stories, fully orchestrated field and battle music, and the ability to switch between not only between HD and retro-inspired 16-bit visuals, but also Japanese and English voice track.

Elsewhere

8.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

91%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the story of Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition are largely positive. Many critics praised the story for its depth, surprises, and engaging narratives. Eurogamer Italy describes the story as deep and surprising in the final hours, while GameSkinny commends it for being well-crafted and presented with wonderful characters. IGN Italia highlights the narrative's complexity and touching moments, with references to biblical stories and a protagonist with a special destiny. Screen Rant acknowledges that the story follows a stereotypical JRPG formula but still finds it entertaining and charming. TheXboxHub and XboxAddict both emphasize the engaging and captivating nature of the story, with the former mentioning a prophecy and a hero battling forces of darkness. Despite the overall positive reception, there are a few critics who express some reservations about the story. Game Rant mentions that the narrative is hyper-traditional and full of genre tropes, which may make it challenging for new players to fully immerse themselves. Metro GameCentral criticizes the plot as generic and predictable, with little effort put into storytelling. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the story of Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition is highly enjoyable and engaging. RPG Fan praises it as an epic, 120-hour adventure with incredible drama and charismatic characters. Forbes highlights the surprising plot twists and amazing set pieces, while My Nintendo News describes it as a dramatic plot with exciting twists and gripping scenes. The majority of the critics found the story to be very good, with its depth, engaging narratives, and well-developed characters being the standout aspects.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics love Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition's deep and engaging story with surprising twists and wonderful characters. While some critics find it traditional and predictable, most agree it's a highly enjoyable, 120-hour epic adventure with gripping drama and charismatic characters.

Gameplay Mechanics

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

72%

Mixed (50-79)

28%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of the critics praised the gameplay of Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition, with many considering it to be very good. The game offers a classic RPG experience with turn-based combat, which is described as addictive, nostalgic, and well-designed. The combat system is highlighted for its depth, fast-paced battles, and the ability to speed up encounters, making it engaging for players. The inclusion of quality of life improvements, such as adjustable battle speeds, camera settings, and the ability to skip cutscenes, enhances the overall gameplay experience. Critics like Eurogamer Italy, GameSkinny, and RPGamer specifically mention the satisfying combat and skill customization. The addition of new features, such as the celestial forge and the ability to ride monsters, is also appreciated by IGN Italia. The game also offers different difficulty and challenge modes, catering to both JRPG fans and newcomers, as mentioned by Screen Rant. The gameplay is further enhanced by the ability to control up to four characters at once, as noted by TheXboxHub. The inclusion of a crafting system, customization options, and skill trees adds depth and strategy to the gameplay, as mentioned by XboxAddict and RPG Fan. The traditional turn-based combat is praised for its balance, accessibility, and tactical nature, making it enjoyable for players of all skill levels, according to Cultured Vultures and God is a Geek. The gameplay is described as a classic RPG formula with modern standards, interesting characters, and a well-realized mechanics by PLAY! Zine and Forbes. The gameplay upgrades and quality-of-life improvements, such as faster battles and the ability to switch between 2D and 3D modes, are also appreciated by Gamer.nl and Nintendo Insider. While the majority of the critics had positive opinions about the gameplay, there were some minor criticisms. Some critics, such as Critical Hit and SpazioGames, mentioned that Dragon Quest XI S doesn't offer much innovation in terms of gameplay mechanics. The gameplay is described as traditional and safe by Cubed3, but still enjoyable. The simplicity of the turn-based combat system, without extra rules or complications, is mentioned by Metro GameCentral. However, the amusing monster designs and wide variety of attacks make it compelling. My Nintendo News also mentions that while the gameplay is fun and addictive, there isn't much innovation present. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the gameplay of Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition is very good. The game offers a classic RPG experience with addictive and well-designed turn-based combat. The inclusion of quality of life improvements, such as adjustable battle speeds, camera settings, and the ability to skip cutscenes, enhances the overall gameplay experience. The addition of new features, like the celestial forge and the ability to ride monsters, is also appreciated. The gameplay is praised for its balance, accessibility, and tactical nature, making it enjoyable for players of all skill levels. While some critics mentioned the lack of innovation, the majority of the critics found the gameplay to be enjoyable and engaging, with improvements that make it more accessible and welcoming to newcomers.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics love Dragon Quest XI S for its addictive turn-based combat, quality of life enhancements, and engaging gameplay. While some note a lack of innovation, the majority praise its classic RPG experience and well-designed mechanics that cater to players of all skill levels. Overall, the game is praised for its balance, accessibility, and tactical depth, making it a hit among JRPG fans and newcomers alike.

Graphics and Visual Design

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

65%

Mixed (50-79)

35%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praised the Graphics and Visual Design of Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition, considering it to be very good. Many critics highlighted the game's vibrant and beautiful world, with meticulously-crafted environments and well-designed characters. Eurogamer Italy, GameSkinny, and TheXboxHub specifically mentioned the top-notch cel-shaded and hand-drawn visual style, which added to the overall appeal of the game. IGN Italia and TheGamer commended the impressive visuals, including lush environments, superb lighting effects, and cel-shading. RPG Fan and Metro GameCentral also praised the game's superb visual design, with beautifully absurd monsters and gorgeous landscapes. Forbes and Nintendo Insider appreciated the inclusion of a 2D mode, which added a unique and incredible feature to the game. However, there were some critics who mentioned certain downsides to the Graphics and Visual Design. Cubed3 and Wccftech noted that the Switch version had some graphical downgrades compared to the PS4 and PC versions, with occasional muddy textures and reduced image quality. GameGrin and Impulsegamer mentioned noticeable visual downgrades from the original release, particularly in draw distance and occasional low-resolution textures. My Nintendo News pointed out that while the graphics were fluid and looked good, the sound and visual effects could be lackluster at times. GamePro Germany also mentioned that some textures in the distance may appear washed out on the Switch. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the Graphics and Visual Design of Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition are very good. The game was praised for its beautiful and vibrant visuals, well-designed characters, and attention to detail. The inclusion of a 2D mode was also appreciated by many critics. While there were some mentions of graphical downgrades and occasional technical issues, these were not significant enough to overshadow the overall positive reception of the game's graphics. Critics such as Gaming Age and Critical Hit even considered Dragon Quest XI S to be one of the best-looking games on the Nintendo Switch.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics laud Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition for its stunning graphics and visual design, praising the vibrant world, well-crafted characters, and top-notch cel-shaded style. Some noted minor downsides like graphical downgrades on the Switch version, but overall, the game's visuals are considered very good with the inclusion of a unique 2D mode. Critics agree that despite some issues, the game remains visually impressive and one of the best-looking on the Nintendo Switch.

Music and Sound Design

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

88%

Mixed (50-79)

12%

Negative (0-49)

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

The Sound Design and Music of Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from the critics. The majority of the critics praised the fully orchestrated soundtrack, highlighting its grandeur and its ability to enhance the overall experience of the game. Eurogamer Italy, GameSkinny, TheXboxHub, COGconnected, Cubed3, Cultured Vultures, Digital Chumps, Game Rant, GamingTrend, God is a Geek, RPG Fan, Critical Hit, Forbes, GamePro Germany, GameSpot, Gamer.nl, GamesRadar++, Impulsegamer, Metro GameCentral, Nintendo Insider, NintendoWorldReport, Pure Nintendo, SpazioGames, Switch Player, VG247, and Vooks all commended the orchestrated soundtrack for its quality and its ability to immerse players in the game world. They mentioned the stirring themes, intense battle music, emotional tracks, and the overall lovely and warm feel of the music. In terms of negatives, some critics mentioned that certain tracks were overused, as noted by RPGamer. Additionally, TheGamer mentioned that the synthesized music, while fun initially, may not have the same lasting impact as the fully orchestrated soundtrack. Nintendo Insider and Vooks also stated that while the symphonic soundtrack improved upon the original version, the overall tunes were underwhelming. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the Sound Design and Music of Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition is exceptional. The fully orchestrated soundtrack, performed by the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra, was widely praised for its quality and its ability to elevate the game's experience. The addition of new tracks and the option to switch between different versions of the soundtrack, such as the universally acclaimed music from Dragon Quest VIII, were also highlighted as positive aspects. The English and Japanese voice-overs were well-received, adding charm and variety to the game. While there were some minor criticisms, the overwhelming sentiment is that the sound design and music greatly contribute to the overall enjoyment of Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics rave about Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition's stunning fully orchestrated soundtrack, praising its grandeur and immersive qualities. Despite some minor criticisms like overused tracks and comparisons to synthesized music, the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra's performance and the addition of new tracks are widely celebrated. Overall, the game's exceptional sound design and music enrich the player's experience, with both English and Japanese voice-overs adding charm and variety.

Voice Acting

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

43%

Mixed (50-79)

57%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the voice acting of Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition are generally positive. Many critics praise the quality of the voice acting, particularly in the Japanese language track. IGN Italia describes the new Japanese voice acting as exceptional, while Cultured Vultures and RPG Fan mention the excellent Japanese voice acting adding to the overall experience of the game. TheXboxHub also commends the distinct and well-done voice acting for each main character. COGconnected highlights the excellence of the English voice acting, with an option to switch to the Japanese language. Impulsegamer adds that the voice acting is well-acted, captivating, and funny, with regional British accents. Pure Nintendo and Switch Player also mention that the voice acting is well-acted and adds to the charm and outrageousness of the game. These positive opinions highlight the strong performances and the impact they have on the overall enjoyment of the game. However, there are some negative opinions regarding the voice acting in Dragon Quest XI S. Metro GameCentral states that the voice actors are not particularly good, although the option to use the Japanese voice track is available. Switch Player also notes that while the voice acting is generally intriguing, funny, and well-acted, some characters can feel tedious and annoying. These criticisms point out that not all aspects of the voice acting are universally praised, with some critics finding certain performances lacking or irritating. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the voice acting in Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition is a positive aspect of the game. The praise for the Japanese voice acting is particularly strong, with critics like IGN Italia, Cultured Vultures, and RPG Fan highlighting its excellence and contribution to the emotional impact of the game's plotlines. TheXboxHub and COGconnected also commend the distinct and well-done voice acting for each main character. While there are some negative opinions, such as Metro GameCentral's criticism of the voice actors and Switch Player's mention of tedious and annoying characters, the overall sentiment leans towards the positive. The voice acting is seen as an important element that enhances the overall experience and adds charm to the game, whether in English or Japanese.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics generally praise the voice acting in Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition, with a strong focus on the exceptional Japanese voice acting. Positive feedback highlights the well-acted, captivating performances that enhance the game's charm and overall enjoyment. Some critics express negative opinions, citing issues with certain voice actors, but the consensus leans towards the positive impact of the voice acting on the game's emotional depth and immersive experience.

Technical Performance

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

63%

Mixed (50-79)

38%

Negative (0-49)

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

In terms of the technical performance on Xbox One, the majority of critics had positive things to say. Eurogamer Italy, Gaming Age, IGN Italia, Screen Rant, and XboxAddict all praised the smooth performance and stable frame rate of Dragon Quest XI S on Xbox Series X. They also highlighted improvements in loading times and almost nonexistent load screens, thanks to the console's internal SSD. These positive aspects of the technical performance on Xbox One contribute to an overall smooth and enjoyable experience. On the other hand, when it comes to the PlayStation 4 version, some critics had mixed opinions. Game Rant mentioned occasional dips in heavily populated areas, while GameGrin pointed out noticeable performance drops, particularly in frame rate. However, GamingTrend had a different experience, stating that the game ran smoothly on their PS4 Pro with no issues encountered. Wccftech mentioned that the game runs at a solid 30 FPS on all platforms, but with reduced image quality and aliasing on the Nintendo Switch. These mixed opinions suggest that the technical performance on PlayStation 4 may vary depending on the hardware and specific gameplay situations. Moving on to the Nintendo Switch version, the overall sentiment from critics is largely positive. Critical Hit praised the consistently smooth framerate and minimal loading times, describing the porting job as "some kind of witchcraft." Forbes, GamePro Germany, NintendoWorldReport, and The Games Machine all mentioned smooth performance without noticeable frame rate drops or stuttering. While some critics, such as Gamer.nl and SpazioGames, noted the lower resolution and slightly muted colors compared to other versions, they still acknowledged the smooth gameplay experience. Switch Player highlighted the portability aspect as a massive bonus, and Vooks mentioned occasional framerate issues but overall good performance. These positive reviews indicate that the technical performance on the Nintendo Switch version is commendable, considering the hardware limitations. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition performs well across all gaming platforms. The Xbox One version receives praise for its smooth performance, stable frame rate, and improved loading times. While the PlayStation 4 version has some mixed opinions regarding occasional performance drops, it still offers a solid experience for most players. The Nintendo Switch version, despite some graphical compromises and occasional framerate issues, impresses with its consistent frame rate, minimal loading times, and the added benefit of portability. The technical performance of Dragon Quest XI S is generally well-received, with each platform offering a satisfying gameplay experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Critics laud Dragon Quest XI S for smooth performance and stable frame rate on Xbox One, while PS4 version receives mixed opinions on performance. Nintendo Switch version impresses with consistent frame rate and minimal loading times, despite some graphical compromises. Overall, the game performs well on all platforms, offering a satisfying gameplay experience tailored to each console's capabilities.

Replay Value

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

79%

Mixed (50-79)

21%

Negative (0-49)

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

Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition has received overwhelmingly positive reviews regarding its replay value. The majority of critics praised the game for offering a plethora of additional content, new modes, and quality of life improvements that make it worth revisiting. GameSkinny, Gaming Age, and IGN Italia all mentioned the 2D mode as a compelling reason to replay the game. This mode allows players to experience the entirety of the story in either 3D or 2D, effectively doubling the already impressive 100-hour runtime. The addition of new side quests, challenges, and story expansions was also highlighted by critics such as Screen Rant, Digital Chumps, and Impulsegamer, who appreciated the game's ability to provide more to do for players. On the negative side, some critics expressed that the additional content and modes may not appeal to those who have already played the game. Cultured Vultures noted that while it may not be as appealing to returning players, Dragon Quest XI S offers a lot of value for newcomers or fans of the series. Wccftech mentioned that there is no new content compared to the Nintendo Switch release, which could be seen as a downside for players who have already experienced the game on that platform. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition has excellent replay value. The game's additional content, including new quests, side stories, and retro-inspired modes, was highly praised by multiple critics such as Push Square, GamesRadar++, and Nintendo Insider. The ability to customize gameplay and difficulty through Draconian Quest options, as mentioned by Cubed3, added to the game's replayability. The inclusion of quality of life improvements, such as skipping cutscenes and setting combat to a faster speed, as highlighted by Switch Player and TheSixthAxis, also contributed to the overall positive sentiment. The game's length, with anywhere from 60 to over 100 hours of gameplay, and the various mini-games available, as mentioned by GameSpot, were also cited as factors that enhance the replay value. In conclusion, Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition is widely regarded as a game with exceptional replay value, offering a wealth of additional content and improvements that make it worth revisiting.

TL;DR

replay value

Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition is praised for its outstanding replay value with new modes, side quests, and story expansions that enhance the game's already impressive 100-hour runtime. Critics laud the 2D mode for doubling the gameplay experience and offering more for players to enjoy. While some feel the added content may not appeal to returning players, the game provides significant value for newcomers and fans of the series. Overall, critics agree that the game's customization options, quality of life improvements, and abundance of mini-games make it a must-play for those seeking a rich and rewarding gaming experience.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

98%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

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

Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition received overwhelmingly positive reviews from the critics, with the majority considering it a very good game. The game was praised for its satisfying and long-lasting RPG experience, with a retro flavor that appealed to fans of the genre. Critics such as Eurogamer Italy and IGN Italia hailed it as one of the best JRPGs of all time, celebrating its immense content and significant quality of life improvements. The game was also commended for its engaging story, beautiful visuals, amazing music, and hours of content, as mentioned by TheXboxHub and COGconnected. While the overall consensus was highly positive, there were a few minor drawbacks mentioned by some critics. The controversial graphics alterations and removal of previous versions from virtual storefronts were noted by Cubed3, but the added content and improvements were deemed sufficient to justify a re-entry into the game. Metro GameCentral mentioned that the game played it safe and didn't revolutionize the genre, but still found it charming and heart-warming. RPGamer acknowledged some drawbacks but considered Dragon Quest XI S a great starting point for newcomers. In conclusion, Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition received widespread acclaim from the critics, with the majority considering it a very good game. The positives highlighted include its satisfying RPG experience, retro flavor, immense content, quality of life improvements, engaging story, beautiful visuals, and amazing music. While there were some minor drawbacks mentioned, such as controversial graphics alterations and playing it safe, the overall consensus is that Dragon Quest XI S is one of the best JRPGs available and a must-play for fans of the genre.

TL;DR

Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition wowed critics as a top-tier JRPG, praised for its satisfying retro RPG experience, immense content, and quality of life improvements. While some critics noted minor drawbacks like controversial graphics changes, the game's engaging story, beautiful visuals, and amazing music make it a must-play for fans of the genre. Overall, Dragon Quest XI S is hailed as one of the best JRPGs of all time, despite playing it safe and not revolutionizing the genre.

MONSTER

Reviews

111 reviews found

100

TheXboxHub

Xbox One

Dec 18, 2020

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

Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition is a near-perfect RPG, with an engaging story, beautiful visuals, amazing music, and hours of content. It is highly recommended.

Read full review

100

Forbes

Nintendo Switch

Oct 2, 2019

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

Thoroughly incredible game and almost peerless within the genre.

Read full review

100

Gaming Age

Xbox One

Dec 16, 2020

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

The review recommends Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of An Elusive Age - Definitive Edition as a great RPG with a lot of content to keep players busy.

Read full review

100

Switch Player

Nintendo Switch

Sep 30, 2019

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

Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition is a quintessential JRPG that celebrates the series and is accessible to both new and returning players. The world is rich, the gameplay is satisfying, and with a free 10-hour demo, there is no excuse not to play it.

Read full review

100

VG247

Nintendo Switch

Oct 2, 2019

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

The game is praised for being a carefully cultivated recreation of everything that made the series great, and is described as perfect for both experienced players and newcomers.

100

Digital Chumps

PlayStation 4

Dec 7, 2020

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

The review concludes that Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition is a perfect game that is still fun to play, and recommends it as the best edition of the game to get.

Read full review

100

TheGamer

PlayStation 4

Dec 1, 2020

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

The game is highly recommended, especially for fans of the Hero character from Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.

Read full review

100

GameSkinny

Xbox One

Dec 9, 2020

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

Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age Definitive Edition is a joyous and wonderful gaming experience that embraces its roots in a charming and beautiful way.

100

Nintendo Insider

Nintendo Switch

Nov 12, 2019

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

Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age Definitive Edition is worth playing, especially for RPG fans.

Read full review

RPG Fan

PlayStation 4

Jan 4, 2021

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

The review states that Dragon Quest XI is one of the best games the reviewer has ever played, praising its design and emotional impact.