Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake Nintendo Switch Review - Is It Worth It?

Summary

The review of *Dragon Quest 3 HD 2D Remake* for Nintendo Switch highlights the game as a faithful and visually stunning remake of the classic RPG. While the story remains simple and the gameplay relatively basic, with turn-based combat and a straightforward class system, the addition of HD 2D graphics brings a fresh, modern feel to the game. Despite minor frame rate issues on the Switch, the music and overall atmosphere are praised. Ideal for fans of the original and newcomers alike, this remake delivers a timeless RPG experience with some modern updates, earning an 8/10 rating from Nintendo Life.

Takeaways

• 😀 The *Dragon Quest 3 HD 2D Remake* for Nintendo Switch has been highly anticipated and lives up to expectations despite some performance issues.
• 😀 The game maintains the core structure of the original 1988 RPG, where players control a hero on a quest to defeat a dark lord.
• 😀 The narrative is relatively simple, with limited character development, focusing more on exploration and quirky world-building.
• 😀 The battle system is turn-based with random encounters, offering a balance of strategy and progression through leveling and class changes.
• 😀 Players can customize their party with a variety of classes, with the option to reclass characters for more tactical flexibility.
• 😀 The visual upgrade using Square Enix's HD 2D engine combines 2D character sprites with 3D environments, providing a beautiful retro-modern fusion.
• 😀 There are some performance issues on the Nintendo Switch, particularly in towns, where noticeable frame drops occur despite the game's beautiful graphics.
• 😀 The game includes several quality of life improvements, such as speed-up options for battles and clear map markers for objectives.
• 😀 The music is varied and atmospheric, contributing to the cozy and immersive feel of the game, with tracks for different settings ranging from towns to dungeons.
• 😀 The remake is a faithful adaptation that enhances the original's strongest aspects while staying true to the simplicity of the 1988 classic.
• 😀 Overall, the game is an excellent entry-level RPG for newcomers and a must-play for fans of the original, earning an 8/10 rating from Nintendo Life.

Q & A

What is the focus of this review?

The review focuses on the Dragon Quest 3 HD 2D remake for the Nintendo Switch, highlighting both its strengths and drawbacks.

What is the key difference between the HD 2D remake and the original game?

The HD 2D remake features beautiful new graphics, blending retro pixel art with modern 3D elements, enhancing the visual appeal of the game while preserving the original gameplay.

How does the narrative in Dragon Quest 3 compare to modern RPGs?

The narrative in Dragon Quest 3 is relatively simple, with a straightforward plot involving a nameless warrior tasked with defeating an evil dark lord. It lacks the in-depth storytelling found in more recent RPGs.

What type of gameplay does Dragon Quest 3 offer?

Dragon Quest 3 follows traditional JRPG gameplay with random encounters, turn-based combat, and exploration. It includes a class system that allows players to customize their party.

What improvements have been made in the HD 2D remake?

The remake includes updated HD 2D graphics, a speed-up option for battles, map markers to highlight objectives, and additional elements like a monster area and monster wrangling. These improve the visual experience and streamline gameplay.

Are there any significant performance issues in the HD 2D remake?

Yes, there are noticeable frame drops, especially in towns and villages, which can affect the overall performance despite the game's visually appealing graphics.

What is the combat system like in Dragon Quest 3?

The combat system is turn-based with random encounters. Players can control each character's actions manually or use preset auto-instruction sets. It also includes a simple class system that allows for some customization in combat abilities.

Does Dragon Quest 3 HD 2D remake offer a high level of replayability?

Yes, the game offers replayability through its class system, allowing players to reclass characters and experiment with different party setups. Grinding for better stats, especially through metal slimes, also encourages replaying.

How does the game handle character growth and progression?

Character growth is handled through a typical leveling system combined with a class system that allows players to shape their party’s abilities. Players can also reclass characters, resetting their stats but giving them new combat abilities.

What is the overall verdict of the review?

The review gives Dragon Quest 3 HD 2D remake an 8 out of 10, praising it for its faithful adaptation, beautiful graphics, and enjoyable gameplay while noting some performance issues and its relative simplicity compared to modern RPGs.