It’s impossible to discuss the greatest JRPGs without mentioning Dragon Quest, a series that, alongside Final Fantasy, forms the very foundation of the genre. Its legacy even inspires modern titles like the turn-based Like A Dragon games, serving as a crucial reference for its protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga. Now, revisiting the series’ origins is more accessible than ever before. Two of the most influential JRPGs of all time are back, beautifully revitalized with the launch of the Dragon Quest 1 and 2 HD-2D Remake on Steam.
This Dragon Quest 1 and 2 HD-2D Remake continues Square Enix’s tradition, following their exceptional remaster of Dragon Quest 3. Players can now journey back to the very start of the saga. The effort invested in updating both games to modern standards is evident; these high-definition reimaginings strike a perfect balance, looking absolutely stunning while faithfully preserving the charm of their original pixel-art aesthetics.
Both titles have been enhanced significantly, featuring new characters, dungeons, and expanded story content that enriches their original narratives. Notably, the Dragon Quest 2 remake unveils a completely new area: the Ocean Floor. This underwater adventure guides your party through a mystical mermaid town, a haunted ghost ship, and a hidden undersea treasure vault, offering a fresh storyline, a diverse array of new enemies, and thrilling boss encounters.
While the first game maintains its singular protagonist, your hero’s combat abilities have been greatly enhanced, and you’ll now face groups of adversaries instead of strictly one-on-one battles. Dragon Quest 2, having already introduced a party system, feels inherently more aligned with contemporary JRPG combat from the outset. Adding to this, players will gain a new ally, the Princess of Cannock, who brings exceptional speed and clever tactics to any skirmish.
To further modernize the experience, many new systems have been seamlessly integrated. Sigils, previously narrative elements, now boast tangible gameplay functionality, allowing you to enhance your battle strategies by upgrading skills or magic. Scattered scrolls can be found to teach new abilities to your chosen party members. Mini medals, a beloved feature from subsequent Dragon Quest titles, are hidden throughout the worlds, exchangeable for powerful armor, weapons, and more scrolls. Plus, a tombola minigame offers additional prizes for those who uncover its hidden tickets during their adventures.
It’s important to acknowledge, however, that these are foundational titles, and while extensively modernized, they won’t quite match the contemporary polish of a game like Dragon Quest 11 or even the more recent Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake. Nevertheless, the extensive modernization efforts are truly impressive, and even longtime fans will find the new content, especially in the second game, highly engaging. For anyone eager to experience the roots of this legendary series, this remake offers the definitive way to play Dragon Quest 1 and 2.
The Dragon Quest 1 and 2 HD-2D Remake is available now on Steam and the Microsoft Store, priced at $59.99 / £49.99. For a more complete collection, you can purchase it in a bundle with the DQ3 Remake for a combined $99.99 / £84.99, embarking on the original hero’s journey.
To fully appreciate these revitalized classics, consider pairing them with a top-tier gaming monitor. Or, if nostalgia is calling, explore more of the best classic PC games still enjoyable today.
Which Dragon Quest game holds your top spot? For me, it’s a tough choice between DQ8 and DQ11. Share your favorite with the community!