The wait for Dragon Quest XII has been painful, with Square Enix not offering updates on this ambitious title. All we know is that it's going to be more mature than what we’ve been used to from the series, with fans hoping it doesn’t take itself too seriously.
With so much uncertainty about this new game, Square Enix recently announced that Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition has returned to the Switch eShop. Not only has this JRPG classic returned but it also has a permanent price drop at a respectable $40.
Simply put, if you’re scared of the new direction this legendary series seems to be taking, get one of its best classic-based entries now. It's also a lot easier than Dragon Quest VIII.
Released back on the Switch in 2019, Dragon Quest XI S took an already great game and made it even better for Nintendo fans. Those who enjoyed the Akira Toriyama-style visuals, classic turn-based combat, and fun story will be happy to know that all of that remains intact for the Switch port. We’d go as far as saying that this is one of the best-looking games on the Switch.
Luckily, this isn’t just a simple re-release, as the Switch port added plenty of new content and QOL improvements.
For starters, fans can play the game in 2D mode, making this look like an SNES RPG with beautiful pixel visuals. This mode also removes roaming monsters from the game, bringing back random battles for that classic feeling. It’s more of a novelty and we’re sure fans will prefer playing with the 3D visuals, but this is still a great addition.
New stories that flesh the game out were also added and give players more to do. Without spoiling anything, something happens midway through the game and separates the whole party. In the original, players just meet them all back later, but in this version, they briefly get to play as the separated party members and see what happens from their perspective. It can feel like fluff sometimes but there are some sweet character moments here.
The QOL improvements made for Dragon Quest XI S are so good that it makes going back to that original version tough. Players can now keep alternate outfits without having to wear the armor associated with them, so changing gear and choosing your favorite look is possible. You can also use The Forge outside of save points, ensuring new weapons at maximum convenience. Finally, you also get a bell that summons your horse on the map, making traveling a lot better.
Square Enix was so happy with this version of the game that they also brought it to PS4, Xbox One, and PC. Unfortunately, they also de-listed the original version of the game, which is a huge shame. Even though this version is better in every way, it is sad to see the original game gone, though fans can still buy physical copies of the PS4 version.
Even if you’re not worried about the direction of Dragon Quest XII, Dragon Quest XI S is still one of the best JRPGs money can buy. It doesn’t matter if you’re playing the Switch, PS5, or Xbox Series, the game is available on all of those systems and is just a good time. Anyone looking for a cozy adventure with great characters and classic turn-based combat has no excuse and should just buy it.
