35 Years Ago, One RPG Changed the Course of Video Game History
Dragon Quest, released in 1986, redefined RPGs with accessible gameplay and key elements like customizable characters and open worlds. An HD-2D remake of Dragon Quest I & II is in development.
Read original article
Dragon Quest, released in 1986 in Japan and later in North America as Dragon Warrior, is credited with redefining the role-playing game (RPG) genre and establishing the foundation for console RPGs. While not the first RPG, it successfully translated the complexity of personal computer games into a more accessible format for home systems. Dragon Quest introduced essential RPG elements such as customizable characters, a vast open world, a leveling system, and a narrative centered around saving a princess, which has since become a staple in the genre. Its design allowed for a more approachable gaming experience, making it suitable for both casual and dedicated players. Over the past 35 years, Dragon Quest has continued to innovate while maintaining its core formula, influencing numerous other games like Final Fantasy and Chrono Trigger. The series remains relevant, with Dragon Quest XI exemplifying its enduring appeal. An HD-2D remake of Dragon Quest I & II is currently in development, showcasing the game's lasting impact on the gaming landscape.
- Dragon Quest redefined the RPG genre and established the foundation for console RPGs.
- It introduced key RPG elements in a streamlined format, making it accessible to a wider audience.
- The game’s narrative and gameplay mechanics have influenced many subsequent RPGs.
- Dragon Quest has continued to innovate while staying true to its original formula for over three decades.
- An HD-2D remake of Dragon Quest I & II is in development, highlighting its ongoing relevance.
Related
Final Fantasy 7: An Oral History (2017)
The article explores the creation and impact of Final Fantasy 7, highlighting Square's evolution, key figures like Sakaguchi, Uematsu, and Nomura, and the game's influence on the gaming industry.
Deconstructing the Role-Playing Video Game
The article explores the creation of rpg-cli, a role-playing game inspired by classic Japanese RPGs. It uses a command-line interface to simulate dungeon exploration with automated battles and draws from RPG design history.
Grumpy Gamer – Why Adventure Games Suck
Ron Gilbert argues that adventure games have declined and are "dead," critiquing the label of "Interactive Movies." He emphasizes player interaction, clear objectives, and narrative-driven puzzles for engaging design.
Dungeons and Dragons taught me how to write alt text
Eric Bailey discusses how Dungeons & Dragons has shaped his alt text writing, emphasizing narrative importance, effective detail prioritization, and the need for practice to improve accessibility and user experience.
Tex Murphy and the Coming of the DVD (A Shaggy-Dog Story)
The introduction of DVDs in the late 1990s revolutionized gaming and entertainment, enhancing video and audio quality, benefiting series like Tex Murphy, and transforming media consumption through technological innovation.
1 commentsRelated
Final Fantasy 7: An Oral History (2017)
The article explores the creation and impact of Final Fantasy 7, highlighting Square's evolution, key figures like Sakaguchi, Uematsu, and Nomura, and the game's influence on the gaming industry.
Deconstructing the Role-Playing Video Game
The article explores the creation of rpg-cli, a role-playing game inspired by classic Japanese RPGs. It uses a command-line interface to simulate dungeon exploration with automated battles and draws from RPG design history.
Grumpy Gamer – Why Adventure Games Suck
Ron Gilbert argues that adventure games have declined and are "dead," critiquing the label of "Interactive Movies." He emphasizes player interaction, clear objectives, and narrative-driven puzzles for engaging design.
Dungeons and Dragons taught me how to write alt text
Eric Bailey discusses how Dungeons & Dragons has shaped his alt text writing, emphasizing narrative importance, effective detail prioritization, and the need for practice to improve accessibility and user experience.
Tex Murphy and the Coming of the DVD (A Shaggy-Dog Story)
The introduction of DVDs in the late 1990s revolutionized gaming and entertainment, enhancing video and audio quality, benefiting series like Tex Murphy, and transforming media consumption through technological innovation.