Why a Dragon Quest 7 Remake Doesn’t Make Sense Now
▼ Summary
– Square Enix is reportedly working on a remake of Dragon Quest 7, planned for release in its 2026 fiscal year, following HD-2D remakes of the first three games.
– The choice to remake Dragon Quest 7 before other mainline games like Dragon Quest 4 or 5 has been questioned, as it seems less logical in the series’ order.
– Dragon Quest 7, originally released in 2000 and remade for 3DS in 2013, is known for its lengthy gameplay, often exceeding 80 hours for a casual playthrough.
– A remake could allow Square Enix to adjust the game’s length and pacing, making it more appealing to new audiences introduced by recent remakes.
– Fans argue that remakes of Dragon Quest 4 or 5 would make more sense, as they are part of key trilogies and hold strong emotional connections for players.
The prospect of a Dragon Quest 7 remake raises questions about Square Enix’s priorities, especially when other iconic entries in the series remain overdue for modern treatment. Reports suggest the company is working on a refreshed version of Dragon Quest 7: Fragments of the Forgotten Past, potentially launching in 2026 or 2027. While bringing the game to current platforms would free it from its 3DS limitations, the decision to prioritize it over fan-favorite titles like Dragon Quest 4 or 5 feels puzzling.
Though unconfirmed by Square Enix, internal documents cited by sources indicate the remake is in development. Given the studio’s recent focus on HD-2D revivals, with Dragon Quest 1 and 2 arriving in 2025, it’s clear the franchise is embracing nostalgia. Yet, Dragon Quest 7 stands out as an unconventional choice. Originally released in 2000 for PlayStation and later remade for 3DS, the game is notorious for its sprawling runtime, often exceeding 80 hours. A modern version could streamline its pacing, but that alone doesn’t justify skipping more beloved entries.
Fans have long championed remakes of Dragon Quest 4 and 5, both of which hold deeper cultural significance. The Zenithian Trilogy, beginning with DQ4, remains incomplete in modern form, while DQ5’s emotional narrative and generational storytelling make it a standout. Its influence even extends beyond gaming, the 2020 Dragon Quest animated film drew inspiration from its plot. Meanwhile, DQ4 ties directly into Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince, released just last year.
While any remake is welcome, Square Enix’s approach feels disjointed. Completing the Erdrick and Zenithian trilogies would provide a more cohesive experience for newcomers. Instead, jumping to DQ7 risks leaving fans wondering why pivotal chapters are being overlooked. With Dragon Quest 12 still shrouded in mystery since its 2021 announcement, the series deserves a clearer roadmap, one that honors its legacy while inviting new players into its rich world.
The debate isn’t about whether Dragon Quest 7 deserves a remake, it’s about timing. As the franchise continues to evolve, Square Enix should consider which stories resonate most before revisiting its lengthiest adventure.
(Source: Polygon)
