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

Sure thing. Here’s a rewritten version:

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So, there I was at PAX East 2025. I’d already blabbed about diving into Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster, which—dunno why—felt kinda important to share. But wait, there’s more! Turns out Square Enix had another trick up their sleeves. Drumroll, please—got an early peek at Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake. I mean, I was jazzed. Loved the Dragon Quest III HD-2D, so this felt like an early Christmas. Good vibes all around for old-timers and newbies.

Now, picture this—a bunch of us scribblers got the ground rules (seriously, they had rules) on how much we could nosh on each game. Tempting though it was, veering off the main path was a strict no-no. Monsters lurking off the trail? Yeah, no thanks, not today. Anyone who’s tangoed with the Dragon Quest III remake kinda gets it. Smooth 60 FPS on a shiny PlayStation 5, grab whatever goodies lie around, and—zoop—speed up battles with a button tap. Oh, and the run toggle is a blessing; my thumb’s forever grateful.

Okay, deep dive time. Dragon Quest I HD-2D struts in right after III in the timeline. Logical, right? You’re a descendant of this dude Erdrick from III, off to smack down the Dragonlord solo—yeah, no buddies tagging along. The NES edition was brutal but, thank the gaming gods, Square Enix dialed down the sadism. It’s tricky but won’t have you pulling out your hair. It’s like playing chess with high stakes. You’ll be feeling invincible by the end, like you could totally lift a car or something—or at least a chip bag that’s been particularly stubborn.

Switching gears—Dragon Quest II HD-2D brings back the gang. Your crew all have names and quirks, not faceless nobodies. They specialize in their own things, but mum’s the word from Square Enix on the class system. At least they let it slip that you might just gather a foursome. AI can take the reins, or you can micromanage everyone like a proper boss. Handy tweak I noticed: If a spell smacks a monster the right way, it’ll let you know next time. Saves brain cells.

I’m hyped about the whole HD-2D spiel. Early play session had me grinning like a kid with candy. The graphics—chef’s kiss—tie the trilogy together in this nostalgic, artsy way. Soundtrack’s freshly orchestrated too, so get ready for some ear candy. Mark your calendars for October 30, folks—available on Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S|X, and PC.

Are you ready for it? Because I totally am.