Dragon Quest HD-2D Remake: Play Order for the Erdrick Trilogy
The long-awaited return to a golden age of RPGs is upon us. With the stunning announcements of Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake and Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake, fans old and new are preparing to experience the foundational Erdrick Trilogy in a breathtaking new visual style. However, the staggered release dates for these classics have raised a critical question for many adventurers: What is the correct order to play them?
With Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake set to launch first, followed by the first two entries in the saga a year later, the path through the trilogy isn't as straightforward as 1, 2, 3. This guide will illuminate the best way to tackle this legendary story, whether you're a first-time hero or a returning Luminary.
The HD-2D Remake Release Schedule
Before diving into play order, it's essential to understand the release timeline Square Enix has planned. The developers have made the intentional choice to release the games out of their original numerical sequence.
- Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake: Releasing on November 14, 2024.
- Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake: Releasing in 2025.
Both titles are confirmed for a wide release on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam and the Windows Store. This staggered schedule is the primary reason for the play order debate, but it also offers a unique opportunity to experience the narrative in a new light.
Understanding the Erdrick Trilogy
The first three Dragon Quest games form a single, self-contained epic known as the Erdrick Trilogy (or the Loto Trilogy in Japan). They are all connected by the legendary hero, Erdrick, and tell a multi-generational story of the fight against darkness.
While the games were originally released in numerical order, their internal story chronology is different. Dragon Quest III is, in fact, a prequel to the first two games. It tells the origin story of Erdrick, setting the stage for the events that unfold in Dragon Quest I and its direct sequel, Dragon Quest II: Luminaries of the Legendary Line. Understanding this is key to deciding your personal play order.
Recommended Play Order: Two Paths for Your Adventure
There are two primary ways to approach the Dragon Quest HD-2D Remakes: playing them in the order they are being released or waiting to play them in their original numerical order. Each has distinct advantages.
Option 1: Chronological Story Order (Play III, then I & II)
This method involves playing the games as they become available, starting with Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake in 2024 and then continuing with Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake in 2025.
- Who It's For: This is the ideal path for newcomers to the series and anyone who wants to experience the saga in its direct, chronological sequence.
- The Pros:
- No Waiting: You can jump into the world of Dragon Quest the moment the first remake is released.
- Narrative Cohesion: You will experience the story from its chronological beginning to its end. You will witness the rise of the legendary hero Erdrick in DQIII and then see how that legacy shapes the world and the descendants who follow in DQI and DQII.
- Developer Intent: This release schedule strongly suggests that the developers want players to experience the origin story first in this new HD-2D format.
- The Cons:
- The Long Wait: The biggest drawback is the year-long gap between starting the story with III and concluding it with I & II.
Option 2: Original Release Order (Wait for I & II, then Play III)
This method requires patience. You would need to wait until the Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake collection launches in 2025, play through those two titles, and then begin Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake.
- Who It's For: This path is perfect for series veterans who want to relive the original experience, or for players who value the impact of a prequel's big reveals.
- The Pros:
- Preserves the Mystery: Playing Dragon Quest I and II first preserves the mystery and legend surrounding the hero Erdrick. The climactic revelations at the end of Dragon Quest III have a much greater impact when you've already experienced the two games that followed it.
- Authentic Experience: This mirrors how millions of players first experienced the trilogy in the 1980s, creating a sense of discovery and awe as the full scope of the story is unveiled in the final act.
- Gameplay Progression: While unconfirmed, it's possible the remakes will have slight mechanical differences. Playing from I to III might feel like a more natural gameplay evolution.
- The Cons:
- Patience is Required: You must wait until 2025 to even begin your adventure.
- Risk of Spoilers: You'll have to navigate a full year of online discussions, videos, and articles about Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake while you wait.
Final Verdict: Which Order Is Best for You?
For the vast majority of players, especially those new to the Dragon Quest universe, the recommended approach is to play the remakes in their release order: start with Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake in 2024, followed by Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake in 2025.
This method allows you to engage with the community as the games launch and experience the epic narrative chronologically from its grand beginning. The staggered release feels like a deliberate choice by the creators to present this timeless story to a new generation starting from its true origin point.
However, for the purists who cherish the original journey of discovery, the wait will be worth it. Playing I, II, and then III will perfectly replicate the sense of wonder that cemented this trilogy as one of the most important in gaming history.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need to play other Dragon Quest games to understand the Erdrick Trilogy?
A: Not at all. The Erdrick Trilogy is the very beginning of the series and is a completely self-contained story. You can jump in with no prior knowledge and enjoy the entire epic.
Q: What is "HD-2D"?
A: HD-2D is a signature graphical style that blends 2D pixel-art characters with beautifully crafted 3D environments. It utilizes modern lighting, particle effects, and depth of field to create a visually stunning aesthetic that feels both nostalgic and new.
Q: Is Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake a single purchase?
A: Yes, the title Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake indicates it will be sold as a single collection containing both classic games, allowing you to seamlessly continue your adventure from the first game to the second.