Square Enix has continued its tradition of revitalizing classic RPGs with the release of Dragon Quest VII: Reimagined, now available on the Nintendo Switch 2.
Originally debuting on the PlayStation in 2000 and later receiving a 3DS remake (2013 in Japan, 2016 in the West), Dragon Quest VII has long been recognized as both one of the most expansive and ambitious entries in the storied Dragon Quest franchise. The latest version, Dragon Quest VII: Reimagined, stands apart from previous remakes by forgoing the iconic HD-2D style in favor of an all-new, diorama-inspired 3D visual approach.
This transformation lends the beloved adventure a modern look that resonates on contemporary hardware, bringing fresh life to the game's classic story and sprawling world. A Focus on Streamlined Gameplay and Quality-of-Life Improvements While Dragon Quest VII is known for its epic length and intricate storytelling, Square Enix has chosen to modernize not just its graphics but also its core gameplay loop.
The Nintendo Switch 2 edition features a host of quality-of-life enhancements, including streamlined pacing, refined combat mechanics, and swifter battles.
Several optional scenarios have been trimmed or reworked, providing a tighter and more accessible experience for both returning fans and newcomers. These significant updates have fueled discussion among the community and critics alike.
While some fans lament changes to the original formula, many have praised the improvements as essential for adapting the classic to modern expectations.
As noted by reviewer Mitch, the Nintendo Switch 2 version "excels at making a classic feel contemporary without sacrificing the heart of what made it special," ultimately awarding the release a 9 out of 10 for its thoughtful modernization. A Milestone Release for the Franchise Dragon Quest VII: Reimagined represents yet another example of Square Enix’s dedication to preserving and enhancing its legendary RPG catalog.
The game’s new 3D aesthetic demonstrates the publisher’s willingness to experiment beyond its now well-known HD-2D remakes, as seen with recent updates to other Dragon Quest titles. As Dragon Quest continues to be one of the cornerstone franchises for both Square Enix and Nintendo hardware—from the eShop to featured spots in Nintendo Direct presentations—this remaster ensures that new generations can experience a pivotal chapter of JRPG history with accessibility and style on the Nintendo Switch 2. For fans eager to revisit Estard's time-spanning saga or newcomers curious about the legacy of Dragon Quest, Dragon Quest VII: Reimagined on the Nintendo Switch 2 is a compelling blend of nostalgia and innovation that respects its roots while looking to the future.
Originally debuting on the PlayStation in 2000 and later receiving a 3DS remake (2013 in Japan, 2016 in the West), Dragon Quest VII has long been recognized as both one of the most expansive and ambitious entries in the storied Dragon Quest franchise. The latest version, Dragon Quest VII: Reimagined, stands apart from previous remakes by forgoing the iconic HD-2D style in favor of an all-new, diorama-inspired 3D visual approach.
This transformation lends the beloved adventure a modern look that resonates on contemporary hardware, bringing fresh life to the game's classic story and sprawling world. A Focus on Streamlined Gameplay and Quality-of-Life Improvements While Dragon Quest VII is known for its epic length and intricate storytelling, Square Enix has chosen to modernize not just its graphics but also its core gameplay loop.
The Nintendo Switch 2 edition features a host of quality-of-life enhancements, including streamlined pacing, refined combat mechanics, and swifter battles.
Several optional scenarios have been trimmed or reworked, providing a tighter and more accessible experience for both returning fans and newcomers. These significant updates have fueled discussion among the community and critics alike.
While some fans lament changes to the original formula, many have praised the improvements as essential for adapting the classic to modern expectations.
As noted by reviewer Mitch, the Nintendo Switch 2 version "excels at making a classic feel contemporary without sacrificing the heart of what made it special," ultimately awarding the release a 9 out of 10 for its thoughtful modernization. A Milestone Release for the Franchise Dragon Quest VII: Reimagined represents yet another example of Square Enix’s dedication to preserving and enhancing its legendary RPG catalog.
The game’s new 3D aesthetic demonstrates the publisher’s willingness to experiment beyond its now well-known HD-2D remakes, as seen with recent updates to other Dragon Quest titles. As Dragon Quest continues to be one of the cornerstone franchises for both Square Enix and Nintendo hardware—from the eShop to featured spots in Nintendo Direct presentations—this remaster ensures that new generations can experience a pivotal chapter of JRPG history with accessibility and style on the Nintendo Switch 2. For fans eager to revisit Estard's time-spanning saga or newcomers curious about the legacy of Dragon Quest, Dragon Quest VII: Reimagined on the Nintendo Switch 2 is a compelling blend of nostalgia and innovation that respects its roots while looking to the future.
