Dragon Quest's 40th anniversary is a momentous occasion, and Square Enix has marked the occasion with a bang. The announcement of Dragon Quest XII is a testament to the enduring popularity of the series, and a promise of a new adventure for fans. The game's development has been a long and winding road, with a fresh start from scratch, a departure from the initially promised adult and darker tone, and a return to the series' more whimsical and fantastical roots.
What makes this announcement particularly exciting is the involvement of Akira Toriyama and Koichi Sugiyama. While Toriyama's passing in 2024 may mean that his iconic character designs and art style will be a challenge to replicate, the use of previous work is a clever and respectful nod to the series' history. Sugiyama's music will also be a familiar and comforting presence for fans, adding to the game's nostalgic appeal.
The game's subtitle, Beyond Dreams, hints at a story filled with strange visions and a motley crew of companions. The protagonist's sleep-plagued state and the inclusion of a young humanoid dragon and a robot companion suggest a tale of adventure and discovery, with a touch of the surreal. This is a classic Dragon Quest formula, and one that has proven to be a winning combination over the years.
The news of Dragon Quest Monsters: The Withered World is also a welcome addition to the franchise. These spin-offs often get overlooked in favor of the mainline games, but they offer a different kind of adventure and a chance to explore different aspects of the Dragon Quest universe. It's a smart move to keep the series fresh and engaging for a wide audience.
While Dragon Quest Builders 2 was somewhat lackluster, the series is likely on a hiatus for now. The focus on Dragon Quest XII and the new Dragon Quest Monsters game is a positive sign for the future of the franchise. The series' longevity and its ability to adapt and evolve over the years is a testament to its enduring appeal.
Dragon Quest XI S, a nearly decade-old masterpiece, is getting a fresh update for the Switch 2. This is a smart move to keep the game relevant and accessible to a new generation of players. The original Dragon Quest XI is one of the finest role-playing games ever made, and a new version will no doubt attract new fans and keep the series alive and well.
As a diehard Dragon Quest fan, I am thrilled to see the series continue to thrive after 40 years. The announcement of Dragon Quest XII is a celebration of the series' past, present, and future, and a promise of more adventures to come. The game's development may have had its challenges, but the result is a new entry that promises to be a worthy addition to the Dragon Quest legacy.
