Dragon Quest has completed 37 years in the gaming industry, and it’s still one of the favourite JRPGs around the world. No doubt why this series has surpassed Final Fantasy in Japan as the most famous JRPG series. However, Dragon Quest is like any other gaming series and not every instalment can be a fan favourite.
On a contrary note, gamers and critics have appreciated the mainline series of Dragon Quest. That’s why we have brought you the best Dragon Quest games of the mainline series and ranked them according to how appealing and mastermind they are. So, this guide is for you if you’re thinking about picking the best Dragon Quest game to start.
Let’s dive into the best Dragon Quest mainline games, shall we?
11. Dragon Quest X
Released on August 2, 2012, Dragon Quest X is the one and only MMORPG instead of an individual-player RPG. So, if you want to give MMORPG a try, then you can start with this Dragon Quest title. However, this title is the only game that never arrived in the West.
At the very beginning of this best Dragon Quest game, players are allowed to design their characters for them to die. Next, the player repeats the process. Those characters choose a different race for their souls to restrain. Not to mention, the intro of this mainline Dragon Quest game is quite interesting. However, the story fails to keep gamers entertained along the way.
Apart from that, the lack of a Western release is a big negative among Dragon Quest fans. Well, this game is available on the following platforms:
- Microsoft Windows
- Wii
- Wii U
- Nintendo 3DS
- Nintendo Switch
- Android
- iOS
- PlayStation 4
10. Dragon Warrior (NES)
This is the first game of the entire mainline series of Dragon Quest. In fact, this game set the plot of this legendary heroic series. Released on 27 May 1986, the first game is also known as Dragon Quest, and it gives a nostalgic touch. Hence, this is the best Dragon Quest game to start your gaming spree and earn extra points.
However, the game has dated today, and it will be a bit difficult to land on this title, even if you are a pre-existing admirer of this series. Still, this title has shown how it all began; thus, you will perceive a very clear idea. The main story takes almost 9 hours to complete, and available platforms for this title are:
- Satellaview
- Wii
- iOS
- PlayStation 4
- NES
- MSX
- MSX2
- Android
- Nintendo Switch
- Nintendo 3DS
- PC-9801
- Game Boy Colour
- Super Famicom
9. Dragon Quest 6: Realms of Revelation
If you want something engaging and charming among the best Dragon Quest games ever, this title won’t disappoint you. Dragon Quest 6 was originally a Japan-exclusive release, and then Nintendo DS rename of this title arrived in the West. However, the game came up on 9 December 1995 and retained the 16-bit style of the Super Famicom original.
This makes a great deal since the title hasn’t shifted from its classic style. On the other hand, the upgrade in the Western release seems catchy. Still, the weak point of Dragon Quest 6 is its storyline. After all, fans need a compulsive storyline to complete a game of 41 hours. Here are the available platforms for Dragon Quest 6, one of the best Dragon Quest games Reddit:
- Android
- iOS
- Super Famicom
- Nintendo DS
8. Dragon Quest 2: Luminaries of the Legendary Line
If you love to revisit older games, Dragon Quest 2 is for you. Well, it’s not fair to compare older titles with newer ones under the Dragon Quest series, but this Dragon Quest game gives you some serious polished mechanics to enjoy an RPG. Well, this title hit the market on 26 January 1987.
That’s how Dragon Quest 2: Luminaries of the Legendary Line becomes one of the best Dragon Quest games in order. Additionally, it’s quite difficult to overcome the hurdles and odds. On the other hand, Dragon Quest 2 can be a testing experience with its 16.5-hour interesting storyline. On the other hand, the title is available on the following devices:
- Game Boy Colour
- NES
- PlayStation 4
- Wii
- iOS
- Super Famicom
- Nintendo Switch
- Nintendo 3DS
- Android
- MSX
- MSX2
7. Dragon Quest 3: The Seeds of Salvation
For solid reasons, this is one of the most popular and best Dragon Quest games in history. Released on 10 February 1988, Dragon Quest 3 brought some new mechanics in those days that astonished fans. For example, implementing the day and night cycle was jaw-dropping at that time.
In addition, this sequel of Dragon Quest expanded on the first 2 games’ open-world aspects. Thus, this 28-hour adventurous title became epic. Meanwhile, check out the supported platforms of Dragon Quest 3: The Seeds of Salvation:
- Super Famicom
- Nintendo 3DS
- Nintendo Switch
- Android
- Wii
- NES
- Game Boy Colour
- PlayStation 4
- iOS
6. Dragon Quest 7: Fragments of The Forgotten Past
Are you searching for a long Dragon quest game? Here it is with a completion time of 73 hours. You can explore many quests and areas with Dragon Quest 7: Fragments of The Forgotten Past. On the other hand, the game challenges you with difficult tasks and chores. As a result, this title is hard to level up.
However, this is one of the spellbinding Dragon Quest games ranked by difficulty. This title was a huge success in Japan and earned the best-selling game on the PlayStation 1 award. On a contrary note, the PS1 version differs slightly from the Nintendo 3DS remake. Well, this game was released on 26 August 2000.
The long campaign time might give out players scope to flourish. Whereas it can be a distracting factor for lots of gamers. However, these are the supported platforms for Dragon Quest 7:
- Android
- iOS
- PlayStation
- Nintendo 3DS
5. Dragon Quest 4: Chapters of The Chosen
Now, this is something different from other Dragon Quest titles stated above. Dragon Quest 4 introduces new gameplay mechanics as the game is categorised into 5 chapters. And, each chapter has its hero. Apart from this, the narrative is so strong that other games must follow the trend.
However, the game arrived on 11 February 1990 with a campaign duration of 27 hours. The title is full of side quests, and the players get to connect to their corresponding campaign character. This is because players can experience the backstory through the characters’ eyes. Moreover, the main character joins the last chapter and the other 4 characters from the previous chapters.
Besides that, this is one of the best Dragon Quest games due to its brilliant range of side quests. And, the game is available on the platforms below:
- Nintendo DS
- NES
- Android
- PlayStation
- iOS
4. Dragon Quest 9: Sentinels of The Starry Skies
Dragon Quest 9 is a multiplayer title that throws fans a full cooperative story. Additionally, the leading profile can only save the story and loot progression. However, fans claimed that Dragon Duest 9 is one of the best Dragon Quest games Reddit because of its co-op modes and grace.
On the other hand, players have to unlock job classes and modern equipment for respective characters in DQ9: Sentinels of The Starry Skies. However, the title was released on July 11, 2009, and presented a campaign time of 48.5 hours. Well, this game is available only on Nintendo DS.
3. Dragon Quest 11 S: Echoes of An Elusive Age – Definitive Edition
Are you searching for one of the newest editions of the Dragon Quest series? If yes, we got you Dragon Quest 11 S. This title has earned the crown as one of the best toppers and best Dragon Quest games PS4 for its difficult opponents, enticing graphics, and engaging appeal.
Overall, the game’s characters have stolen hearts since its release on 29 July 2017, with a completion time of 56.5 hours. In addition, a 16-bot style 2D mode and an orchestral soundtrack will keep you glued to the Dragon Quest 11 S. Undoubtedly, this is one of the leading JRPGs in this generation.
However, some fans have complained about the storytelling. Apart from that, DQ11 has everything that fans have anticipated. If you like DQ11, you can also check out Dragon Quest: Treasures, a prequel including Mia and Erik in their youth. Additionally, it’s one of the best Dragon Quest spin-offs. Besides this, you can enjoy Dragon Quest 11 on the following platforms:
- Microsoft Windows
- Stadia
- Nintendo 3DS
- Nintendo Switch
- Xbox One
- PlayStation 4
2. Dragon Quest 5: Hand of The Heavenly Bride
Now, we are gang back to another classic Dragon Quest game. Released on 27 September 1992, Dragon Quest 5: Hand of The Heavenly Bride is one of the biggest RPGs in gaming history. The strength of this title is the breathtaking story background and storytelling.
In this gameplay, the players are convinced to be the chosen one. And, they need to defeat the assigned evil. Not to mention, the story of this best Dragon Quest game will keep you tied to your seat from the very beginning. On the other hand, this title has a completion time of 30.5 hours and is available on:
- Nintendo DS
- iOS
- Android
- Super Famicom
- PlayStation 2
1. Dragon Quest 8: Journey of The Cursed King
Here comes the superstar of the Dragon Quest legacy. This particular title has elevated the game of Dragon Quest. How does it stand out and become the #1 in the whole series? By the way, Dragon Quest 8 has everything to keep gamers on their toes with an absorbing story, charming characters, and more.
On the other hand, the cute hamster sidekick will steal your heart for sure. That’s why we consider DQ8 one of the best Dragon Quest games. However, this title was released on 27 November 2004, with a campaign duration of 62 hours. Yes, it’s a long story to complete.
In addition, this series is one of the most accessible entries due to the support for the following devices:
- Nintendo 3DS
- Android
- iOS
- PlayStation 2
In Conclusion
Apart from these best Dragon Quest games, Dragon Quest 3 will soon get a remake following the style of Octopath Traveller. In addition, 2 more mainline games will release soon, and one of them is Dragon Quest 12. Enix has already hinted at a darker entry in the plot. We hope to get a release date soon.
