The Ultimate Quest: Our Definitive Guide to Playing Every Mainline Dragon Quest Game

With the recent release of Dragon Quest VII: Reimagined on the Nintendo Switch 2 and the monumental 40th anniversary of Yuji Horii's genre-defining JRPG series, many veteran players and newcomers alike are undoubtedly eyeing the entire Dragon Quest saga. The question isn't just "Can I play all eleven mainline games?" but "What will it actually cost me?" Our extensive analysis reveals that the full journey is surprisingly accessible, clocking in at a grand total of around $635.32. The unsung hero? Square Enix’s robust mobile port strategy, which makes embarking on this epic quest far more achievable than you might expect.

Dragon Quest isn't just a series; it's a foundational pillar of the JRPG genre, a blueprint that inspired countless classics in the Western world. From its humble beginnings to its latest iterations, Square Enix has consistently shown an understanding of the series' cultural impact. While the slick new HD-2D remakes are a welcome modern touch, the company has always been smart about ensuring its older titles remain playable across various platforms. We set out to demystify the cost of this epic undertaking, charting the most cost-effective path to experience every single mainline adventure, from the original legend to the latest hero.

The Hardware Gauntlet

Forget collecting every retro console; Square Enix has delivered a clutch move by making much of the series accessible on modern devices. Our analysis confirms that for the average gamer, your existing smartphone handles a significant chunk of the journey. We're talking about devices capable of running Android 8.0 or an iPhone 6 and above – hardware so integrated into modern life, we won't even count its cost. However, a few specialist pieces are still essential for the full experience:

• Nintendo 2DS (Second-hand): ~$125. This affordable handheld is non-negotiable for Dragon Quest IX (DS-exclusive) and the original 3DS remaster of Dragon Quest VII. You can often snag both games on the resale market for around $60, a stark contrast to the $60 price tag of a single new HD-2D title.
• Nintendo Switch Lite (Refurbished): ~$169.99. Essential for the critically acclaimed Dragon Quest XI. A Lite model is more than sufficient, proving you don't need the latest console iteration for this modern classic.
• Japanese Region-Locked Wii (eBay): ~$50. This is the series' wildcard. If you're truly a purist and want to experience Dragon Quest X, the MMORPG outlier, this obscure pick is your only console option for its offline elements. Frankly, most players might just hit up YouTube for this one, but for dedicated completionists, it's a must.

Our initial hardware tally stands at a respectable $344.99.

The Games: Where the Real Savings Are

This is where Square Enix truly plays its preservation card, offering an unparalleled mobile library that keeps the entry cost low for the early series entries. Our advice? Go mobile where you can – it’s a no-brainer for both convenience and cost. We’ve crunched the numbers for the absolute cheapest legitimate path:

Factoring in these game prices, the grand total to conquer all eleven mainline Dragon Quest titles comes to an impressive $635.32.

Our Verdict: A Dragon's Hoard Within Reach

So, is $635.32 a steep price for eleven genre-defining JRPGs? Our veteran eyes say absolutely not. When we consider the sheer volume of content – hundreds, if not thousands, of hours of gameplay – it represents significant value. To put it in perspective, this epic quest will set you back less than accumulating every Pokémon generation and is less than half the cost of going all-in on The Sims 4 and its myriad expansions. That's a serious QoL win for your wallet.

Square Enix’s mobile strategy, often overlooked, is a masterclass in game preservation. Housing not just a hefty chunk of the Dragon Quest saga, but also early Final Fantasy, Secret of Mana, and Romancing SaGa, their app stores are treasure troves for genre aficionados. While the recent HD-2D remakes are undeniably slick and offer a modern coat of paint, our budget-conscious veterans will find the original mobile ports a formidable alternative – especially when comparing the $60 price tag of a single new HD-2D title against a $2.99 mobile classic.

Ultimately, diving into Dragon Quest’s storied past is not just an aspiration; it’s a genuinely achievable goal. For anyone looking to truly understand the roots of the JRPG genre and experience some of its finest offerings, the path is clearer and more affordable than ever. Grab your smartphone, dust off a 2DS, and prepare for an adventure that defined a generation. This isn't just about playing games; it's about connecting with history.