The venerable Dragon Quest series, a cornerstone of the JRPG genre, is once again summoning adventurers to a grand new journey – or rather, a grand old one, splendidly refreshed. Fans were recently treated to the exciting news that Dragon Quest VII: Fragments of the Forgotten Past, originally a PlayStation 1 epic, is receiving its most ambitious overhaul yet: Dragon Quest VII Reimagined. Slated for release on February 5, 2026, across PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, and PC, this isn`t just a remaster; it`s a full-blown reconstruction designed to enthrall both veterans and newcomers.
A Timeless Tale, Rebuilt for Tomorrow
For those who remember the original 2000 release, Dragon Quest VII was a behemoth, infamous for its immense length and a narrative that unfolded gradually, sometimes agonizingly so. A 3DS remake in 2016 attempted to streamline aspects, but “Reimagined” promises a more radical transformation. Square Enix has declared the narrative will be “reworked to be pacier and more accessible,” a welcome promise for anyone who found the initial hours of the original akin to sifting through ancient scrolls before the real adventure began. Full voice acting is also on board, which should undoubtedly add depth and personality to the sprawling cast.
Visuals Reimagined: A Sculpted Masterpiece
Perhaps the most striking change is the game`s new art style. Eschewing the pixel art of its earliest days or the more traditional 3D of recent entries, “Reimagined” embraces a unique aesthetic reminiscent of sculpted figurines. This choice beautifully complements the distinctive character and monster designs of the late, great Akira Toriyama, bringing them to life with a charming, tangible quality that harks back to the delightful FMV cutscenes of the PS1 era. It’s a bold artistic direction that feels both fresh and deeply respectful of its heritage, promising a world that is visually inviting from every top-down angle.
Gameplay Innovations: Modern Comforts for a Classic RPG
Beyond the graphical facelift, “Reimagined” introduces substantial quality-of-life enhancements and gameplay tweaks. The core turn-based combat remains, but with options to increase battle speed or toggle auto-battling – a godsend for grinding sessions in a game known for its sheer volume of encounters. Furthermore, following in the footsteps of its 3DS predecessor, monster encounters are now visible on the field, allowing players to strategically engage or even automatically defeat low-level enemies without entering combat. The class system, a defining feature of DQVII, has also been reworked, now allowing party members to select two classes simultaneously, opening up a plethora of strategic possibilities and character customization options. One might almost say the developers are making it *too* easy to become an omnipotent hero, but who are we to complain?
Secure Your Journey: Preorder Details & Editions
For those eager to embark on this grand adventure, preorders are now live, offering various editions tailored to different levels of devotion (and budget). Each comes with its own set of enticing bonuses:
Standard Edition ($60)
The base game, available physically for Switch 2, Switch, PS5, and Xbox Series X, and digitally for all platforms including PC (Steam and Microsoft Store). Preordering any version of the game grants you the Early Bird Pack:
- Trodian Togs costume for Hero: A nostalgic nod to Dragon Quest VIII.
- 3x Seeds of Proficiency: To give your early game a little boost.
Digital Deluxe Edition ($75)
Releasing two days earlier on February 3, 2026, this digital-only offering provides early access and a treasure trove of additional content:
- Dragon Quest VII Reimagined base game
- Early Bird preorder bonuses (as above)
- 48-hour early access to the full game.
- White Wolf costume for Ruff
- Luminary`s Livery DLC pack: A costume set for the main party, inspired by Dragon Quest VII`s original characters.
- The Road of Regal Wretches DLC pack: Extra Battle Arena challenges featuring classic Dragon Quest bosses.
- Jam-Packed Swag Bag DLC pack: Includes various in-game weapons, consumable items, and summonable monster allies.
These DLC packs will also be available for separate purchase, for those who prefer to curate their content à la carte.
Collector`s Edition ($250)
Exclusively available through Square Enix’s online store, this limited physical edition is for the most dedicated collectors. It includes:
- Boxed copy of Dragon Quest VII Reimagined
- Early Bird preorder bonus
- All Digital Deluxe DLC content
- Special Steelbook case
- Adorable Slime enemy plushie
- Ship in a Bottle figure: A charming replica of the party`s iconic vessel.
Available for PS5, Switch 2, Switch, and Xbox Series X versions, this edition promises to be a centerpiece for any Dragon Quest shrine.
A Renaissance for the Dragon Quest Legacy
Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is not an isolated event. Square Enix has been on a roll, breathing new life into the series` past. Following the acclaimed Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake, we`re also anticipating the release of Dragon Quest 1 & 2 HD-2D Remake on October 30. This consistent stream of high-quality remakes ensures that while we patiently (or impatiently) await news on the mysterious Dragon Quest 12, there`s no shortage of legendary adventures to be revisited. It seems the “Slime Renaissance” is truly upon us, and we are here for it.
Whether you`re reliving cherished memories or discovering this epic for the first time, Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is poised to deliver a monumental JRPG experience, beautifully updated for modern sensibilities. Prepare your party, your potions, and perhaps a small island-hopping vessel, because the world of Estard awaits!
Ellis Thorne 
Gareth Fenton