Gamertell

Title: Dragon Quest IV
Price: $39.99
System(s): DS
Release Date: September 16, 2008
Publisher (Developer): Square Enix (ArtePiazza)
ESRB Rating: Everyone 10+
Pros: Wonderful storyline. The multiple chapters are a great way to introduce characters. Beautiful sprites. Interesting multiplayer aspect. A challenging adventure.
Cons: Quick save doesn’t work in dungeons. Dialect text can be distracting. Level grinding is mandatory.
Overall Score: Two thumbs up, 94/100, A, **** out of 5

Dragon Quest IV: Chapters of the Chosen deserves an audience. Not only that, it should have received the same amount of hype as Chrono Trigger DS. It is a wonderful port of a legendary RPG that is quite captivating.

Previously, I was a Dragon Quest skeptic since the games would sound interesting, but I never spent quality time with any of the entries. Thanks to Dragon Quest IV, I am complete convert. This is an imaginative and engaging title that RPG fans will appreciate.

The Ties of Destiny

Dragon Quest IV: Chapters of the Chosen uses an interesting mechanic to ease players into the game. Instead of immediately starting on the quest to defeat the evil villain, suspense is built by following the adventures of the supporting characters as they deal with the first tremors of terror in the world. This way, the player gets a feel for the world and adventure and gradually becomes more excited about the heroes meeting up to save the world. It also feels more realistic as the injustices build up.

First, you experience a short prologue where you name and create your hero. Then the game shifts to Ragnar McRyan, and the player must help him rescue two kidnapped children. The next heroine is Tsarevna Alena and her two retainers Borya and Kiryl, as they journey so Alena can test her strength. After that, Torneko the merchant comes forward, and players must help him find quality weapons to sell and open a famous store. Then, twins Maya and Meena seek to avenge their alchemist father’s death.

Once the secondary characters’ stories are resolved, the hero’s (or heroine’s) quest can begin.

Excellent RPG Commits Minor Infractions

Square Enix deserves applause for releasing Dragon Quest IV: Chapters of the Chosen outside of Japan. It may not have the graphical overhaul that Final Fantasy IV DS received, or additional quests in the forthcoming Chrono Trigger DS, but it is a classic title that has been a long time coming.

The most striking feature of DQ IV is the graphics. You wouldn’t think 2D sprites and 3D backgrounds would work well together, yet they do. The ability to rotate and explore the 3D surroundings makes it easy to traverse dungeons and find extras in towns. As an added bonus, sprites are all incredibly detailed and beautifully animated.

There are a few quirks, however, that can mar an otherwise enjoyable gaming experience. The first regards the choice to use dialects for different locations in the game. While it does set Dragon Quest IV apart, it can also be difficult at times to decipher what is being said.

The second annoyance comes courtesy of the quick save feature. Dragon Quest IV only allows players to save games at churches with “Confession” options. You’d think you could rely on the quick save feature to create saves any time you aren’t near a town with a church. Wrong. Quick saves can’t be made in caves or towers. So you have to abandon the progress you’ve made and return to the outside world map to save.

Also, I’d have liked to see Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection compatibility with the “chance encounters” and pioneer town multiplayer aspect. Given the challenging nature of Dragon Quest IV, and the amount of time that must be put in to get to the multiplayer point, Square Enix should have offered a Wi-Fi immigrating option so the blossoming town in the game would be easier to populate.

Simply Splendid

Dragon Quest IV: Chapters of the Chosen is simply splendid. It should be on every RPG-fan’s wish list this holiday season. It has everything you could ask for - character development, substantial quests, challenging battles, side quests, catchy tunes and beautiful visuals.

Square Enix may have failed to release the Playstation remake outside of the Japan but they’ve made up for it with this. Dragon Quest IV is a legendary adventure that every gamer should experience.

Site [Dragon Quest IV]