Experiencing Double Vision: DRAGON QUEST I & II HD-2D Remake

So, I was yapping about Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster at PAX East 2025, right? Didn’t spill the beans then, but guess what? Square Enix had this extra gem to check out. Yeah, I got my hands on Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake early. Again, don’t ask me how. Fans of Dragon Quest III HD-2D will probably love this, and if you’re new, well, jump on board, because why not?

Oh, and by the way, us press folks got this lecture about the gameplay — like what to do, what not to do. Instructions, you know? Stick to the path! Those monsters are no joke if you wander too far. If you’ve tried Dragon Quest III in HD-2D, some of this might sound familiar. Running on a PS5 at 60 FPS with super-fast battles. It’s like, blink, and you miss it. And thank the gaming gods, there’s a run button toggle!

Okay, let’s dive into Dragon Quest I HD-2D Remake. This is the next in line after III. Clever, right? You’re a descendant of Erdrick, all set to take down the Dragonlord. Solo mission — no buddies tagging along. Hats off to Square Enix; they took the old NES nightmare difficulty and made it more… bearable? Still tough, but now you won’t lose your mind. The hero’s journey! Who doesn’t want to be a wonder-wielder by journey’s end?

Next up, Dragon Quest II HD-2D Remake. This one brings back the gang — a whole party, each with their quirks. Seems like you’ll have a team of four eventually, but Square Enix is holding their cards close on the whole class system thing. You get to choose: let AI handle your pals or get your hands dirty making choices for them. Pro tip: if a spell works on an enemy, the game will remind you. Handy as heck, isn’t it?

Honestly, I’m stoked for these remakes. Getting a sneak peek was epic. The visuals in HD-2D are like a nostalgic hug. The music too? Fresh orchestrations of tunes we love. Mark your calendars — October 30! It’s dropping on Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, PS5, Xbox Series, and PC. Can’t wait!