Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Dragon Quest IV: Chapters of the Chosen preserves the classic turn-based RPG formula that long-time fans adore while introducing subtle refinements that make the experience feel fresh. Players guide a party of heroes through sprawling overworlds, twisting dungeons, and bustling towns, using the D-pad to explore and the stylus to select commands from a context-sensitive battle menu. This control scheme strikes a nice balance between nostalgia and modernity, letting newcomers dive right in without feeling overwhelmed by complex button combos.

The six-chapter structure remains one of the remake’s strongest assets. In the first four chapters, you assume the roles of various supporting characters—such as the lively princess Alena or the stoic soldier Ragnar—each with unique abilities and personal quests. Chapter Five finally puts you behind the wheel of the main hero, tying each character’s storyline together as they join forces. The brand-new Chapter Six then extends the adventure with additional boss battles, expanded dialogue, and optional challenges, giving fans of the original titles a compelling reason to revisit the world.

Beyond the main storyline, the game sprinkles in plenty of side content to keep things engaging. A revamped Casino minigame features modernized slot machines and card tables, offering in-game currency rewards and fun distractions between grueling boss fights. Additionally, you can configure AI strategies for party members in the final chapter, ensuring that non-player allies act according to your preferred tactics. The ability to save at any House of Healing instead of trekking back to the king’s castle also streamlines progression and respects your time.

Graphics

The visual presentation in Dragon Quest IV on handheld hardware is a delightful showcase of Akira Toriyama’s iconic character designs brought to life with crisp, colorful sprites and detailed environments. Every town, forest, and cave boasts a distinct palette that highlights the series’ signature cartoonish charm. The top screen’s map view and the bottom screen’s menu interface work in tandem, providing both beauty and functionality without clutter.

Enemies—and especially bosses—receive lavish sprite work, with fluid attack animations and expressive idle poses that make each encounter feel memorable. Subtle visual flourishes, like dust clouds when characters run or glinting treasure chests, enrich the world without overwhelming the hardware. Even the revamped Casino glows with neon-inspired hues, creating a fun contrast to the more muted tones of monster-infested dungeons.

While this remake stays true to the 2D legacy of the NES and PlayStation originals, it benefits from modern resolution support and sharper artwork. Character illustrations during key story moments bring extra weight to dramatic exchanges, and the reuse of map sections is cleverly hidden by small graphical tweaks. Overall, the aesthetic enhancements strike a satisfying middle ground between retro authenticity and contemporary polish.

Story

Dragon Quest IV unfolds through an anthology format, starting with six self-contained character chapters that gradually converge in the climactic finale. This narrative structure allows players to build emotional connections with each party member before they unite under the banner of the Chosen Hero. Whether you’re rescuing villagers as Alena or defending a besieged fortress with Kiryl, each arc feels purposeful and briskly paced.

The addition of a sixth chapter in this remake enriches the storyline by offering new layers of closure and surprise. Fans of the original will appreciate the fresh dialogue, expanded lore, and additional battles that tie up loose ends in a more satisfying way. Newcomers, meanwhile, can experience the full breadth of Dragon Quest IV’s tale without feeling like they missed out on important content.

Throughout the journey, the writing strikes a lighthearted tone, punctuated by moments of genuine drama and heroism. The cast—ranging from the spunky Alena to the pious Psaro—exudes personality, and even minor NPCs leave a mark with quirky dialogue. While the overarching quest to stop the nefarious Archfiend is straightforward, the interpersonal dynamics and episodic structure keep the story from ever feeling stale.

Overall Experience

Dragon Quest IV: Chapters of the Chosen stands as a shining example of how to modernize a beloved classic without losing its soul. Replete with deep RPG mechanics, a diverse cast of characters, and a timeless narrative, the game offers dozens of hours of exploration, strategic combat, and heartwarming moments. Whether you’re a veteran of the series or a newcomer seeking a well-crafted adventure, this remake delivers on all fronts.

The careful balance between honoring the original and implementing meaningful quality-of-life improvements—such as convenient save points, streamlined menus, and the all-new Chapter Six—ensures that the pace never drags. Side activities like the Casino, monster scouting, and optional boss fights provide ample opportunities to experiment with party builds and strategies. At the same time, the straightforward checkpoint system means you’re never more than a few minutes away from jumping back into the fray.

Ultimately, Dragon Quest IV: Chapters of the Chosen offers an experience that feels classic yet refreshed. The combination of charming graphics, robust gameplay, and heartfelt storytelling makes it a standout title on any platform. For players seeking a quintessential JRPG with character-driven chapters and a healthy dose of nostalgia, this remake is a must-have adventure that truly lives up to its legendary pedigree.

Retro Replay Score

7.9/10