Dragon Quest is about to celebrate its 40th anniversary, and Square Enix is preparing Dragon Quest VII Reimagined to commemorate the occasion. The new project promises attractive visuals and a classic approach that will surely delight longtime fans. However, beyond the excitement for the future, Yuji Horii reflected on the franchise’s past and explained why he believes the series has remained beloved for almost 40 years.
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Warmth as a Creative Pillar
Horii told Game Informer that many older games lacked a particular feeling: warmth. He wanted to change that from the very first Dragon Quest. He said he worked to create welcoming worlds, memorable characters, and an epic narrative that felt approachable. That sensation became a hallmark of the franchise and remains present in every entry, even in modern remakes.
The creator stated that the series maintains its essence thanks to these values, which he considers fundamental to defining Dragon Quest’s identity. For him, this emotional approach has fostered deep connections with players across multiple generations.
Accessibility for Everyone
Horii also highlighted that accessibility has been key to the franchise’s success. He always aims for new players to quickly understand how the world works, without losing strategic depth. The series keeps systems clear, progression straightforward, and battles easy to learn. That balance has allowed so many players to approach Dragon Quest as a friendly gateway to the JRPG genre.
The developer mentioned that many people remember playing these adventures with friends or family. He also noted that some would ask others for help when grinding became difficult, turning the experience into a special bond. Horii says this social aspect, even if indirect, also helped Dragon Quest maintain its presence in the collective memory.
A Franchise That Lives in Players’ Hearts
Horii believes Dragon Quest has worked like a shared language among players. Each entry brings stories that inspire nostalgia, connection, and cherished memories. This emotional bond—more than technology—is what has allowed the series to remain relevant after almost 40 years.
What do you think of Yuji Horii’s comments? Do you believe Dragon Quest’s warmth sets it apart from other JRPGs? Tell us in the comments.
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