Dragon Quest: Chapters of the Chosen

The upcoming release of Dragon Quest IV is yet another thorn in the side of those who insist that Nintendo’s hardware is a slap in the face of the hardcore. Ben Parfitt sharpens his sword...

Dragon Quest IV first appeared on the NES in Japan in early 1990, with a North American release following two years later. The game never made it to European shores.

The title differed from its forbearers in a number of respects – most notable of which was its multiple chapter structure, each telling the tale from a slightly different perspective. The game also boasted a tactical depth not seen before in the franchise, and revolved around a squad selection mechanic called The Wagon – and again, this element was another common theme throughout the Zenethia trilogy (see box out).

This DS version will not be the first time the NES game has been revisited – a PlayStation version was released in Japan in 2001. Based on the 3D Dragon Quest VII engine, the entire game received a significant graphical update, as well as some notable gameplay additions such as a new character and new chapter. Despite being advertised on the Dragon Quest VII manual, Square Enix never released the remake in the US or Europe.

Such is the Western appetite for the DS game – which came out in Japan late last year – that talk of a possible release in North America and Europe began to bubble long before the official announcement was made.

The portable version is based on the aforementioned PlayStation release, but contains a number of graphical tweaks designed to suit Nintendo’s platform. As well as a host of new animations, and some significant audio improvements, the game will, of course, make full use of the console’s twin screens. It also allows owners to connect wirelessly to swap characters.

For too long Dragon Quest has simply been known as ‘that Square Enix series that isn’t Final Fantasy’, but the success of Dragon Quest VIII in Europe in 2006 heralded a new global dawn for Japan’s favourite role playing game.

The DS has become a new home for classic RPGs as of late, just look at Children of Mana, Final Fantasy IV and Phantom Hourglass as examples. The RPG fraternity is perhaps the most loyal in gaming, so expect a big appetite for this title when it hits retail on September 12th.