Dragon Quest 1 & 2 HD-2D Remake – Which Game Is Better?

The original Dragon Quest game started a successful role-playing game series for Enix in Japan in 1986, and came to North America in 1989. Dragon Quest 2: Luminaries of the Legendary Line followed quickly, launching in both regions just a year later. Since then, Dragon Quest has remained incredibly popular in Japan, though it’s become a more specialized RPG series for players elsewhere in the world.

Fans of Dragon Quest will be thrilled to revisit these beloved titles with the release of Dragon Quest 1 & 2 HD-2D Remake. Let’s compare the original games to the updated remake to see which one stands out – and don’t worry, we won’t spoil anything!

Dragon Quest 2: The Story

Humor And Charm

Despite being released decades ago, the game still feels like a contemporary RPG. This is thanks to its updated HD-2D graphics, as well as a completely new soundtrack and vocal performances. While the Dragon Quest 1 Remake also features voiced dialogue, it doesn’t feel quite as lively because its story is less complex.

In Dragon Quest 2 Remake, having a complete party allows for fun interactions between characters. While the story – an evil wizard attempting to take over the world – is familiar, the game stands out thanks to its likeable characters and clever humor, making it a step up from the original Dragon Quest.

Dragon Quest 1: The Hero’s Journey

A Classic RPG

While the story feels familiar – much like the second game – and focuses on a single hero, that won’t bother everyone. Sometimes a straightforward approach is best, and the Dragon Quest 1 Remake captures the essence of a classic hero’s adventure without getting bogged down in endless conversations.

The main character begins as someone who dreams of being a hero, but with each challenge he overcomes, more and more people start to think he’s the reincarnation of the legendary hero Erdrick. Although he doesn’t have a permanent group of companions, the hero frequently encounters the same characters throughout his journey – similar to running into rivals in a game like Pokémon. This recurring cast helps players feel a sense of progress in this brief but engaging story.

Dragon Quest 2: The Party System

Battles Are Swifter

Getting into Dragon Quest 1 Remake can be tough for players used to other popular turn-based RPGs with parties. You only control the main hero, and he has to fight multiple enemies at once, making battles longer. Dragon Quest 2 Remake is different; it features a party of three characters for roughly half the game.

Later in Dragon Quest 2 Remake, you’ll meet Matilda, who joins your team. She’s the sister of Caradoc, another character who travels with you. Having a party of three makes battles smoother and lets you come up with better strategies, since you have more characters to control.

Dragon Quest 1: Every Upgrade Matters

A Party Of One

Because players only control a single character in Dragon Quest 1 Remake, every new item feels incredibly valuable. They’ll immediately understand how to use each new weapon, accessory, or piece of armor, since they only have one character to equip.

This includes helpful items like Seeds, which boost your stats, and Scrolls, which teach you new spells, among many others. Though tackling battles by yourself can be tough, some players actually enjoy that extra challenge.

Dragon Quest 2: The Ocean Floor

A Proper Use Of The Remake Formula

The remakes of both Dragon Quest games feature significant improvements, including better graphics and more robust combat. However, the second game offers far more completely new content, going beyond just updates to existing features.

In the remake of Dragon Quest 2, you can upgrade your ship to dive underwater – a brand new addition to the game! This isn’t limited to just one area either; players can explore a vast underwater world that feels like a whole separate map.

Dragon Quest 1: Protagonist Vs Protagonist

From Powers To Expressions

Like most main characters in the Dragon Quest series, the heroes in Dragon Quest 1 & 2 HD-2D Remake don’t speak. However, they aren’t quite the same. The hero in Dragon Quest 2 Remake, for instance, can’t learn spells on his own and, while capable, isn’t as versatile as the other members of his team.

The main character in the Dragon Quest 1 Remake starts out noticeably more powerful, likely because he’s journeying on his own. He also shows more personality and emotion when talking to other characters, making him feel like a fully realized person. In contrast, the hero of Dragon Quest 2 Remake is designed to be more of a neutral character, allowing players to easily imagine themselves in his role.

Dragon Quest 2: The Pacing

Something New Around The Corner

While the first Dragon Quest remake is charming in its simplicity, the story isn’t very eventful. The remake of Dragon Quest 2 starts stronger, immediately throwing you into a quest after a kingdom is destroyed. The game is broken up into sections that feel like small, self-contained stories – like episodes in an anime, such as rescuing someone from a strange prison or exploring the ocean depths.

Dragon Quest 2 Remake has a better flow than the first remake. It balances large dungeons with quieter moments that allow the story to develop naturally, making it more engaging throughout. Dragon Quest 1 Remake, on the other hand, can feel slow and repetitive towards the end.

Verdict

Dragon Quest 2 Remake

The Dragon Quest 2 Remake is a true continuation of the story, and it’s best to play the games in order. Newcomers will enjoy the straightforward, classic RPG experience of Dragon Quest 1 Remake, but they’ll be even more impressed by what Dragon Quest 2 has to offer.

These two RPGs are among Square Enix’s best, and it’s great to see them succeeding with this style – especially with both this collection and the Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake. Dragon Quest 2 Remake is a standout title, improving on Dragon Quest 1 Remake with its engaging characters, well-timed story, and creative world, potentially making it the best game in the Erdrick trilogy.

2025-11-04 16:06