The legends that helped define the Japanese role playing genre are coming back in a modern form. Dragon Quest I and II are being rebuilt using Square Enix’s HD 2D style.
This updated version brings the first two titles in the Erdrick Trilogy together in one package. The release date is set for October 30, 2025.
Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake
The new release updates the visuals while keeping the original structure. The HD 2D design blends pixel art with three dimensional environments and lighting. This style, described in the official trailer as a fresh take that preserves the classic look, gives the games a readable and vibrant feel on current platforms.
Square Enix is leading development with support from ARTDINK. The game will be available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Series S, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC. Players can begin with either Dragon Quest I or Dragon Quest II from the main menu. Both games are fully included.
Characters and Combat
Combat remains turn based. Dragon Quest I focuses on a solo hero, a descendant of Erdrick, who must defeat the Dragonlord and save Alefgard. Dragon Quest II takes place generations later and introduces a larger cast. Players control the Prince of Midenhall, the Prince of Cannock, and the Princess of Moonbrooke. The remake also includes a new version of the Princess of Cannock, who was not part of the original game. Players gain access to a ship, which opens up new areas through river and sea travel.
Bonuses and Platform Features
Early digital purchases come with a “trouble free travel kit” that includes elevating shoes and three seeds each of strength, defence, agility, life, and magic. These items give small boosts early in the game.
Players who have save data from the Dragon Quest III HD 2D Remake (released in 2024) can unlock the “Marvellous Makeover Kit” with a dog costume for Dragon Quest I and a cat costume for Dragon Quest II.
According to the Steam listing, this bonus is “a nod to your past journey and a way to start the next in style” that includes elevating shoes and three seeds each of strength, defence, agility, life, and magic. These items give small boosts early in the game.
The PC version includes Steam Achievements, Steam Cloud, Steam Trading Cards, and Family Sharing.
Legacy and Preservation
The Erdrick Trilogy plays a major role in the legacy of Dragon Quest. After the 2024 remake of Dragon Quest III, this release completes the HD 2D treatment of the trilogy. The upgraded look helps older gameplay feel more modern without removing its original structure. The project keeps the traditional turn based combat and linear storytelling while improving the presentation.
A Deeper World and Lasting Influence
Dragon Quest II expanded everything the original game started. You no longer travel alone. Now, you lead a group, and every character brings something different to each battle. Getting access to a ship changes how you move across the world. You decide where to go and when. These additions helped define what later role playing games would treat as standard.
Square Enix has made a clear choice with these remakes. Instead of rewriting history, they are cleaning it up and making it easier to return to. The HD 2D approach keeps the structure, look, and pacing of the originals. It just gives them more clarity and polish. Lighting effects add depth. The familiar art style stays intact.
Players who remember these games can jump back in without feeling lost. New players get a version that runs well, looks sharp, and respects their time. The Dragon Quest III remake showed this format can work. This follow up builds on that success.
Source:
- https://store.steampowered.com/app/2893570/DRAGON_QUEST_I__II_HD2D_Remake/
- https://www.crunchyroll.com/news/latest/2025/10/24/dragon-quest-i-ii-hd-2d-remake-story-trailer
- https://dragonquest.square-enix-games.com/games/en-us/dragon-quest-1-2-hd2d-remake/