3DS remake for 'Dragon Quest VIII' announced

Outside of Japan, the name “Dragon Quest” may not have the same brand-recognition as other video game franchises, like "Final Fantasy" or "Mario," but inside Japan it’s basically on the same level. And if you’ve ever had the pleasure of slashing your way through a slime-infested "Dragon Quest" dungeon, then chances are you’re a fan too.

And now Nintendo is getting ready to usher in a new generation of "Dragon Quest" fans, and perhaps reignite some old flames as well, by releasing "Dragon Quest VIII" on the Nintendo 3DS.

If you’ve already played through the classic before on the PlayStation 2, no worries! The game will feature tons of new content: new characters, new scenarios, and brand new voice acting to bring the dialogue to life.

"Dragon Quest" has always been extremely popular in Japan, but in the rest of the world, it’s had a bit of a shakier experience. It could never seem to step out of the shadow of other video game titles, despite great reviews and sales. The most recent non-spin-off game to be released on the Nintendo DS ("Dragon Quest IX: Sentinels of the Starry Skies") sold over one million copies, but it’s still considered a “niche” title.

But it seems like Nintendo is embracing the "Dragon Quest" series by releasing a 3DS remake of "Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King." Considering it was originally a PlayStation 2 title, porting it to the 3DS seems like quite the undertaking, but Nintendo is giving it their all by not just translating it over, but adding in new features as well.

Here’s what was released on the official Japanese "Dragon Quest" site:

“The game also features a new scenario that would have been impossible to include in the original version. What kind of new developments await your party in this never before seen part? You’ll have to play to find out. There’s also new party members available: Garuda the female thief, and Morrie from 'Monster Battle Road' [a 'Dragon Quest' card game released in Japan].

But that’s not all. All cutscenes will be completely voice acted, letting you feel like you’re really there. The music is also performed by the Tokyo Metropolitan Symphony, giving a sense of realism to your adventure, and of course the game has StreetPass support as well. We hope you’re looking forward to the fully-revamped 3DS version of 'Dragon Quest VIII!'”

You can get a taste of the voice acting here at the teaser site for the game.

Of course, all of this great new information is only for the Japanese release of "Dragon Quest VIII 3DS." There’s no news yet about an English-language version, though with any luck it won’t be too far off from the August 27 Japanese release date.

Source: Dragon Quest

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