Exploring Dual Worlds: DRAGON QUEST I & II HD-2D Remake

Wow, so there I was at PAX East 2025, right? Caught up in the hype over Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster, but—surprise, surprise—Square Enix had a little secret up their sleeve. Another game! Well, actually, two games if we’re splitting hairs. Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake. Yep, got my hands on that one early. And, gulp, I was starstruck. Feels weird saying that, but hey, call me a fanboy—or something.

So here’s the lowdown. I mean, if you’re into Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake, this two-pack? Total brain melt. Good stuff for the veterans out there, and newbies too, though let’s be real, if you’re just hopping on, you might miss some nostalgia feels.

Anyway, Square Enix gave us the rundown, you know? Like, don’t wander too far, stick to the path, maybe try not dying (though RIP my in-game party, they were decimated when curiosity struck). Whoops! But here’s a kicker, the game hums along at a buttery 60 FPS on PS5, and man, grabbing stuff off the overworld? It’s like treasure hunting but without any “X marks the spot” nonsense. Oh, and you can speed through fights—perfect for those “let’s get this over with” moments.

Okay, specifics, right? Dragon Quest I HD-2D Remake, cues epic intro music. It’s like a back-to-the-future scenario because it’s after III in the timeline. And you’re chilling as Erdrick’s descendant, solo dolo against the Dragonlord. The original was crazy difficult, like throw-your-controller difficult. But not now, thankfully. They tweaked it, balanced it. So it’s challenging but not an all-out rage-inducing fest. It’s more strategic now too. Feels like you’re Hulk by the end. And who doesn’t want to feel like they’re the hero in a comic book?

Now, Dragon Quest II HD-2D Remake swings back to the party vibe. All your party members have names, personalities, and quirks. I think, maybe? They didn’t spill all the beans on a class system. Wasn’t a fan of that vague foreshadowing. But still, you can let the AI take over the heavy lifting or jump in and call the shots. Oh, and if you cast a spell on a baddie, the game remembers if it worked. No more guesswork. Bless!

Will I be counting the days until October 30th? Probably. I’m that ready, trust me. Looks great across the HD-2D spectrum; it’s like watching nostalgia get a facelift. And the music—chef’s kiss—new orchestrations, so your ears’ll get their dose of epicness. Catch it on all the big platforms. If you see me in line, say hi. Or don’t. Your call.