Rethinking the Remake: Why Dragon Quest VII's Reimagining May Be Premature

Strategic Remake Decisions: Is Dragon Quest VII the Right Choice Now?

The Unforeseen Decision: Dragon Quest VII's Upcoming Reimagining

Following the successful re-release of Dragon Quest III in a stunning HD-2D format, and with the first two games in the series also slated for a similar treatment, reports indicate that Square Enix is now turning its attention to a remake of Dragon Quest VII. This news, though not officially confirmed by the developer, suggests a potential release within the company's 2026 fiscal year. While any new rendition of a classic is typically welcomed, the specific selection of Dragon Quest VII has led many to ponder the rationale behind prioritizing this particular title over others in the celebrated franchise, especially those that might benefit more from a modern revival.

Unveiling the Rumors: A Glimpse into Future Plans

Whispers from industry sources, citing internal documents, suggest that Dragon Quest VII: Fragments of the Forgotten Past is indeed in development for a 2026 or 2027 launch. This news, while exciting for a segment of the fanbase, arrives amidst a broader context of re-releases and remasters for classic RPGs. Despite the lack of an official statement from Square Enix, the community is actively discussing the implications of this potential project. Our team has reached out to Square Enix for further details and will update as information becomes available.

The Longevity Conundrum: Dragon Quest VII's Expansive Journey

First gracing the PlayStation in 2000 and subsequently remade for the Nintendo 3DS in 2013, Dragon Quest VII immerses players in a vast, time-traveling saga where a young hero and companions journey to restore lost islands. While this installment holds a special place in the hearts of many, it is also widely recognized for its considerable length. Casual playthroughs often exceed 80 hours, a stark contrast to other titles in the series, such as Dragon Quest IV, which can be fully experienced in approximately 40 hours. This extensive duration has historically been a point of discussion among players, influencing its accessibility.

Modernizing the Classic: Addressing the Pace of Adventure

A contemporary remake of Dragon Quest VII offers a unique opportunity to refine the game's pacing and narrative flow. By potentially streamlining certain elements or introducing quality-of-life improvements, Square Enix could mitigate the perception of its slow burn, making the epic journey more engaging for modern audiences. Such enhancements could attract new fans who are discovering the series through recent remakes, ensuring that this sprawling adventure remains captivating without feeling overwhelming.

Strategic Sequencing: Prioritizing the Series' Legacy

The benefits of remaking any Dragon Quest title are undeniable, as these updated versions introduce new generations to timeless stories. With the Erdrick trilogy soon to be fully modernized, the natural progression for many would seem to be the Zenithian trilogy, beginning with Dragon Quest IV. This would offer a cohesive pathway through the series' lore, especially given the recent release of Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince, which ties directly into Dragon Quest IV. Alternatively, for a standalone yet impactful choice, Dragon Quest V stands out. Revered as one of the series' finest, its deeply emotional narrative was even adapted into a 2020 animated film, underscoring its cultural significance and making it a prime candidate for a modern reinterpretation.

Anticipation Amidst Uncertainty: The Future of Dragon Quest

As the gaming community eagerly awaits more concrete news regarding Dragon Quest XII, initially teased in 2021, any information pertaining to the future of the Dragon Quest franchise is met with considerable enthusiasm. Even if the current remake priorities appear unconventional, the ongoing commitment to revitalizing these classic adventures is a welcome sign for long-time enthusiasts and newcomers alike, promising continued engagement with the rich world of Dragon Quest.