All the major Dragon Quest games, ranked!

Ever since the release of the HD-2D remake for Dragon Quest III, it’s been constantly on my mind. With a collection of games and memorabilia adorning my workspace, it’s hard not to think about these captivating titles regularly. To put it simply, I’m quite fond of them. After reading the Shacknews team’s favorite picks when my review was published, I pondered: “Why not compile a ranking for the entire series? What could possibly go awry?

Here is my Official Shacknews Freelancer Ranking for the main Dragon Quest series, focusing solely on the numbered installments. In this case, I opted to include commercials rather than box art or in-game screenshots, given that Dragon Quest advertisements are quite extraordinary. Have fun exploring!

11 – Dragon Quest 2: Luminaries of the Legendary Line (1987)

The ideal method to engage: It’s likely the HD-2D remake that will be released in 2025 would be the best choice, however, the mobile version serves as a decent alternative until then!

While it’s challenging to rank these Dragon Quest games as “worst,” because each one is exceptional, I must admit that Dragon Quest 2 isn’t my go-to choice for a replay. Navigating it can be frustrating at times, and there are some unexpected difficulty spikes that can make gameplay less enjoyable. Oh well! Maybe that’s just the way it goes.

10 – Dragon Quest 10: Awakening of the Five Walkers (2012)

Best way to play: Learn Japanese! Or give the unofficial translation more time to cook.

As an ardent gaming enthusiast, I must confess that ranking this game was quite challenging, given its unique status as The MMO One. Despite Square Enix hinting at its unlikely localization, even the offline version released in 2022, I’ve had a taste of an ongoing translation, which unfortunately feels fragmented and unfinished.

The experience is akin to exploring the fossilized remains of a colossal dinosaur, seeking hidden treasures, though there are moments that feel slightly discordant. However, it boasts some intriguing concepts and engaging characters, just edging past Dragon Quest 2 in my book.

9 – Dragon Quest (1986)

Optimal gaming experience: Enjoy Nintendo games on a cathode ray tube (CRT) television, dim the lights, cover yourself with a blanket, and be aged between eight and fifteen years old. This is essentially the scenario described in DQ 2.

This classic game, still popular due to its straightforward design and longevity, offers a weekend’s worth of immersive entertainment. After a day or two, you’ll feel contentedly sated, eager to revisit it in another year or two. Indeed, Dragon Quest is an exceptional choice for gamers.

8 – Dragon Quest 6: Realms of Revelation (1995)

Best way to play: Nintendo DS or mobile

Dragon Quest 6, although sometimes overshadowed by its fellow trilogy members due to perceived inferiority, boasts stunning graphics, an early version of the contemporary Vocation system, and a charismatic, muscular hero sporting a mohawk.

7 – Dragon Quest 8: Journey of the Cursed King (2004)

Best way to play: 3DS

While many people hold this game in high regard due to being their first Dragon Quest experience on PlayStation 2, it’s not one I connect with as strongly. The visuals are charming and the voice acting is enjoyable, but the narrative doesn’t resonate deeply for me. Additionally, I find the skill point system less engaging compared to other aspects of the game. However, it was undeniably a landmark in the Dragon Quest series in terms of its production value, until Dragon Quest 11 surpassed it.

6 – Dragon Quest 7: Fragments of the Forgotten Past (2000)

Best way to play: 3DS

Refreshingly rephrased: The fragment part was quite a bore, but the 3DS remake of Dragon Quest 7 stands out as one of the most impressive transformations in a series abundant with remakes and ports. While the PS1 version might appeal to a niche audience, it still offers numerous appealing aspects that often go unnoticed due to its slow tempo.

5 – Dragon Quest 3: The Seeds of Salvation (1988)

Best way to play: HD-2D Remake

This game is particularly beloved by those who were introduced to the series as children. Its class system represents an advancement over the original Final Fantasy’s, and the remakes have further enhanced the enjoyment and satisfaction of exploring its depths. Moreover, how it connects to the first two games is quite fascinating, especially for a game of its age.

4 – Dragon Quest 4: Chapters of the Chosen (1990)

Best way to play: mobile

Dragon Quest has been more daring with its narrative innovations than often acknowledged. For instance, by providing each main character with their own story arc, it creates a unique bond with otherwise silent characters. The emotional impact when the team unites is immense. Regrettably, the Party Chat feature was not accessible in North America for the DS remake, so the mobile version offers a more comprehensive experience.

3 – Dragon Quest 11: Echoes of an Elusive Age (2017)

Best Way to Play: the “S” version on your platform of choice.

It was disappointing to find the skill point system in Dragon Quest 8 returning, yet almost every other aspect of this journey compensates for it. The game is massive, visually stunning, boasts a compelling cast, and weaves together an intricate narrative that offers more depth than just a simple “big bad guy hates you.” I’m ambivalent about the direction the story takes post-credits, but overall, Dragon Quest 11 represents the pinnacle of the series.

2 – Dragon Quest 5: Hand of the Heavenly Bride (1992)

Best way to play: Nintendo DS or mobile

Instead of summarizing events across just a few days, weeks, or months, there’s an inherent appeal in a narrative that allows us to journey alongside a character throughout their entire life. Despite being a silent protagonist in DQ 5, you still experience so much because the tale unfolds from childhood to raising your own children. This depth is part of what makes it captivating; as the reader, you can sense the burden this character carries without him needing to speak a word himself.

1 – Dragon Quest 9: Sentinels of the Starry Skies (2009)

Best way to play: Nintendo DS is the only option! Sorry!

Since I first started playing Dragon Quest 9, everything else seems to pale in comparison. Not a single game has managed to fill the gap it left, and that was over fifteen years ago! The swift battles, the addictive Vocation system doling out dopamine, the party construction, the wonderfully crafted vignette stories… this game is a powerhouse from start to finish. It’s truly among the best video games I’ve ever experienced.

Enjoyed it! I hope this list assists those intrigued by the series in finding a suitable starting point, or helps indecisive viewers choose the next one to watch. Feel free to share your thoughts on the order, as I’m eager to hear your opinions. Thanks for taking the time to read!

2025-02-01 22:28