At PAX East 2025 this past May, Game Rant got a chance to chat with Square Enix and try out a few minutes of their upcoming HD-2D remakes for both Dragon Quest 1 and Dragon Quest 2. The third game’s remake was launched last year by ARTDINK and Square Enix, signifying the beginning of the Erdrick Trilogy. Interestingly, the third Dragon Quest actually takes place before the other two in the timeline.
During this gaming session, I divided my time between the remakes, which meant I didn’t have extensive playtime with these iconic JRPGs. However, one observation that struck me after playing is that the 2D HD visuals developed by Square Enix are more stunning than any previous attempt in this style. To be honest, Octopath Traveler 1 and Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake can’t hold a candle to the visual splendor of Dragon Quest 1 and 2 HD-2D Remake.
The stunning water effects, captivating world map visuals, and the atmospheric lighting in caves when using a torch truly make these games visually impressive. Sitting close to a 4K TV connected to a PS5 only intensified the awe-inspiring graphics of both game worlds.
Dragon Quest 1 and 2 HD-2D Remake Preview
A Collection of Gorgeous, Iconic JRPGS
I must admit that I haven’t delved deeply into many Dragon Quest games throughout my gaming years. Yet, based on what I’ve observed, these remakes (along with the previous one) seem to be preserving the traditional Dragon Quest experience, filled with random battles, old-fashioned medieval dialogue, and upbeat tunes contrasting a somewhat grim setting. Graphics are being updated, but there aren’t many new features or improvements in terms of gameplay enhancements.
During the preview, Square Enix PR team highlighted an interesting change in the original Dragon Quest 1: instead of battling a single enemy at a time like before, now you can engage in multi-enemy combat! In Dragon Quest 1, you’ll find only one character in your party, but the introduction of multiple foes will certainly spice things up. As for Dragon Quest 2, it already allows you to recruit characters during gameplay, so no major modifications are planned there.
For those who cherish nostalgia for these games from their childhood, you can anticipate the familiar experience in these remakes, only enhanced. On the other hand, if you’ve been hesitant about joining the expansive Dragon Quest series, these HD-2D remakes appear to be an excellent starting point. They represent a stunning reimagining of some of the most influential JRPGs ever made that have left their mark on countless other video games.
(Game Rant’s preview of Dragon Quest 1 & 2 HD-2D Remake was done on a PlayStation 5.)
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2025-05-27 14:06