Dragon Quest VII Remake: Full-Scale Reimagining Hope (Not HD-2D)

Last Updated: October 13, 2025

While the gaming community eagerly anticipates new entries and remakes in the beloved Dragon Quest series, a full-scale remake of Dragon Quest VII: Fragments of the Forgotten Past remains a fervent wish rather than an announced reality. Despite past speculation and the desire for a complete graphical overhaul, Square Enix has not yet revealed plans for a modernized, full-3D reimagining of this sprawling classic, unlike the confirmed HD-2D remakes for earlier titles in the franchise.

The original Dragon Quest VII, first released in 2000 for the PlayStation (and later receiving a 3DS remake in 2013, localized in 2016), was a monumental JRPG known for its extensive story, unique world-rebuilding mechanic, and deep job system. However, its age is evident in its original graphics, leading many fans to dream of a contemporary update that would breathe new life into the game without sacrificing its undeniable charm. The discussion often revolves around whether such a remake would adopt the popular "HD-2D" style seen in Octopath Traveler and the upcoming Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake, or a more ambitious, full-3D approach akin to Final Fantasy VII Remake.

A New Look for a Classic (Still a Dream)

The original Dragon Quest VII was a groundbreaking title for its time, but its visual presentation, even in its 3DS iteration, doesn't align with modern graphical standards. A hypothetical full-scale remake would undoubtedly feature significantly improved character models, environments, and effects, moving far beyond the pixelated aesthetics of the PlayStation original or the more modest polygon count of the 3DS version. Such an undertaking would aim for a vibrant and detailed world, leveraging contemporary graphical engines to render the game's diverse islands and time-traveling narrative with breathtaking fidelity. This contrasts sharply with the HD-2D style, which, while beautiful and nostalgic, intentionally preserves a pixel-art foundation.

Beyond the Graphics: Modernizing Gameplay

Beyond visual enhancements, a true full-scale remake of Dragon Quest VII would present a significant opportunity to refine and modernize its gameplay. While the original was praised for its intricate plot and expansive world, some aspects of its mechanics, particularly the early game's pacing and certain quality-of-life features, could benefit from contemporary adjustments. Players could anticipate potential improvements to the user interface, streamlined menu navigation, and possibly even refinements to the battle system, all designed to enhance the overall gaming experience for a modern audience without altering the core strategic depth. The extent of these changes would be crucial, aiming to address past criticisms while preserving the beloved elements that define the game.

Anticipation and Speculation: The HD-2D Context

The ongoing discussion around Dragon Quest VII remakes is heavily influenced by Square Enix's current strategy for the series. The announcement of Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake, followed by confirmation of Dragon Quest I & II also receiving the HD-2D treatment, has set a precedent. While these remakes are highly anticipated and celebrated for their artistic direction, they also fuel speculation about whether Dragon Quest VII could ever receive a similar, or even grander, overhaul. Many fans express a strong preference for a full-3D remake for DQVII, believing its scope and narrative would be better served by a more expansive visual style that allows for greater environmental detail and character expression than the HD-2D approach.

Questions abound regarding the potential addition of new content, whether a future remake would remain faithful to the original story, and what platforms would host such a revamped classic. The success of Dragon Quest III HD-2D will likely play a role in shaping Square Enix's future remake strategies, including any potential considerations for Dragon Quest VII.

A Remake for a New Generation: The Ongoing Debate

The decision to pursue a full-scale, full-3D remake for a title like Dragon Quest VII, rather than opting for the increasingly popular HD-2D style, would represent a significant commitment. It would suggest a more substantial overhaul, extending beyond simply updating the visuals to potentially addressing gameplay mechanics and streamlining the experience for modern players on a grander scale. While HD-2D offers a fantastic blend of nostalgia and modern polish, a full-3D approach for DQVII could allow for a more comprehensive reimagining, potentially bringing this epic JRPG to a new generation of gamers while simultaneously satisfying the high expectations of long-time fans who envision a truly transformative experience.

The Future of Dragon Quest Remakes

As of now, the focus for Dragon Quest remakes remains firmly on the HD-2D versions of Dragon Quest III, I, and II. While there has been no official announcement regarding a full-scale remake of Dragon Quest VII, the enduring popularity of the game and the success of other major JRPG remakes keep the dream alive. The gaming community eagerly awaits additional information on Square Enix's long-term plans for the franchise, hoping that one day, Dragon Quest VII: Fragments of the Forgotten Past will receive the full-scale, modernized reimagining it so richly deserves, bringing its timeless adventure to a new era of players.