Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake Confirmed: Details

The Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake by Square Enix is finally revealing its release details.

After three years of minimal updates, fans know the platforms it will grace:

• Nintendo Switch,
• PlayStation 5,
• Xbox Series X/S,
• PC via Steam.

This remake, which adopts Square Enix’s HD-2D technology, promises a significant visual overhaul reminiscent of the acclaimed Octopath Traveler series. Initially announced in 2021, the project seems to be nearing completion, with a teaser published on X on May 28 hinting at an impending reveal.

The legend of Erdrick draws near.
#DragonQuestDay #DQDay #DragonQuest pic.twitter.com/KFtqhVY61q

— DRAGON QUEST (@DragonQuest) May 27, 2024

Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D: History

Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake marks a nostalgic return to the series’ roots, recreating the 1988 classic with modern graphics. Its announcement coincided with Dragon Quest Day, celebrating the franchise’s inception in 1986.

On the anniversary, series creator Yuji Horii hinted at future endeavors, including Dragon Quest XII: The Flames of Fate.

“Everyone, thank you very much for all the congratulations,” reads a translated version of the post. “Regarding Dragon Quest 12, which has been causing concern, we were in a meeting until now. I can’t reveal details yet, but we aim for something befitting the legacies of the two who have passed away. Let’s do our best!”

皆さん、たくさんのおめでとうを本当に、ありがとうございます。心配をかけているドラクエ12ですが、実はさっきまで、その打ち合わせをしていました。まだ詳しくは言えませんが、亡くなったお二人の遺作に相応しいものをと思っています。頑張るぞお！ https://t.co/QuVk0PCvNs

— 堀井雄二 (@YujiHorii) May 27, 2024

The reference in Horii’s statement likely alludes to Akira Toriyama and Koichi Sugiyama. Toriyama, renowned for his legendary work on Dragon Ball, played a pivotal role in shaping the visual aesthetic of the Dragon Quest series.

While his direct involvement in Dragon Quest 12 remains unconfirmed, his influence is deeply ingrained in the franchise’s identity.

On the other hand, Koichi Sugiyama’s contribution as a longtime composer for the series is undeniable. Sugiyama’s passing in 2021 marked the end of an era for Dragon Quest, as his music had become an integral part of the series’ charm and emotional resonance.

The revelation of Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake’s platforms follows Square Enix’s business strategy announcement earlier this month.

More recently, the company confirmed the acquisition of Shiver Entertainment,  a studio specializing in porting and developing games for various platforms, including the Nintendo Switch, from Embracer Group.