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

I think I should probably tell you this little story about my time at PAX East 2025. So, I mentioned (or maybe I didn’t? Can’t recall) that I checked out Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster. Sounds fancy, right? But here’s the real kicker — Square Enix, those genius wizards, had another gizmo up their sleeve. I’m talking about the Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake. Got a sneak peek of it. And, oh boy, do I have stuff to share!

Picture this: I’m a Dragon Quest fan — not gonna lie, I’ve enjoyed the Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake — so this new double feature is pure epicness. Like, seriously, the kind of stuff that makes your gamer heart do a backflip. They say it’s a treat for both the veterans and the newbies. I mean, I’d bet my last cup of cold coffee on it.

Now, here’s the thing. We press folks had a checklist of dos and don’ts. Got strict orders not to wander off into monster-ville because, sure, wandering sounds fun until some giant pixelated beast stomps you. For those who’ve danced with the Dragon Quest III HD-2D, the expectations are set. Imagine this: it runs super smooth (60 FPS) on the PlayStation 5, lets you pick up random stuff from the ground, and you can fast-forward fights like you’re watching a ninja movie. Oh, and there’s a toggle for running — because holding buttons is so last decade.

Let’s dive into the juicy bits. First up, Dragon Quest I HD-2D Remake. It’s the chronological next after III, or at least that’s what they want us to think. You play as this Erdrick guy’s descendant, out to tackle the Dragonlord (sounds cool, eh?). There’s a catch, though — solo quest. Yup, you’re flying solo. Was the original honestly that hard? Anyway, they’ve dialed down the frustration, so you’ll feel like a superhero (without the cape) by the end.

Switching gears to Dragon Quest II HD-2D Remake. We’re back in the party groove! Unlike III, your pals have names and quirks. Some mysterious class system might sit in there somewhere, but Square Enix played coy. I noticed a neat party feature though: it reminds you if a spell has been tried on a monster. Handy, right?

I’m hyped for the Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake drop. It’s got that sweet HD-2D vibe, like a visual glue for the trilogy. And the music, don’t get me started — Symphony of fantasy tunes, perhaps? Mark the calendar: October 30. It’s hitting all the big toys — Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S|X, and PC. Be there or be square, or rectangle. Wait, where was I going with this?