Dragon Quest VII: Fragments of the Forgotten Past Review (3DS)

Written by Michael Petalio

Game Title: Dragon Quest VII: Fragments of the Forgotten Past
Genre: Role-playing
Developer: Heartbeat, ArtePiazza
Publisher: Enix (PlayStation), Square Enix (3DS – Japan), Nintendo (3DS – NA/PAL)
Also available on: PlayStation, iOS, Android

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Dragon Quest VII: Fragments of the Forgotten Past is a classic role-playing game and is the remake of the 7th installment for the Dragon Quest franchise, DQ7 was first introduced as Dragon Warrior VII. This review focused on the remake version and some noticeable changes not including changes in the story. The game uses 3D models for the game and can rotate the camera in most cases, random battles are avoidable because monsters are visible.

The story follows a group of friends who searches for stone fragments from the past to the present to restore the islands that was sealed away and to discover why were the islands non-existent in their present time.

Every island offers different story to unfold leaving players thinking of what happened or what will happen in the next adventure. Multiple side quest and items to collect are introduced throughout the game that will keep anyone busy.

The battle system follows a classic turn- based system that let you take over the control of your whole team or let them attack on their own, just like other RPGs customization, grinding and level-up, and class system is available for fans and new to the franchise can enjoy. Note to first timer for the game, class system will be available around 20 – 30 hours in the game, making freedom to choose your favorite class be restricted until then.

During battles, especially with bosses, healing spells and items are the keys and will surely give you the win. Game saving is available in specific location in towns and also available in the world map, you can also suspend the game at times.

Visually, graphics for the game is a major upgrade from the original game without removing the feel that it was indeed a retro game. Characters are detailed enough for the system and blending well with the environment without over exerting to match current games graphics.

Game's overall soundtrack gives a nostalgic feel of games in the past. it changes well depending on the current situation, especially on islands with a darker past. It should have a perfect score if the localized version was allowed to use the orchestra for the Japanese version instead of the MIDI from the mobile version.

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OVERVIEW:

Quality: 9/10
Story: 10/10
Gameplay: 8/10
Soundtrack: 9/10

Verdict: 9/10

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Dragon Quest VII: Fragments of the Forgotten Past for the 3DS is great remake that old fans, can revisit, and newcomers can expect to be treated with great story, characters among others. Long game hours will surely be well spent and will keep gamers engaged with the things available to do in-game. Improvement in almost all area is a plus. The game is a real gem to play for every RPG fans to enjoy.