Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age – PS4 Review

Dragon Quest is the grandfather of the JRPG genre, and it continues to shine in Japan, with a legacy dating back to the NES era. With the exception of the Japan-exclusive MMO Dragon Quest X, you know precisely what to expect when diving into a Dragon Quest adventure. Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age (DQXI S) doesn't stray far from the franchise's tried-and-true formula, and that's not necessarily a bad thing.

In DQXI S, you embark on a journey that adheres to the franchise's familiar patterns. You step into the shoes of a silent protagonist, a royal scion with a mysterious power, kidnapped and destined to battle evil. As you venture across the world, facing adversity and forging new alliances, the plot unfolds with surprising twists that keep you engaged.

One of DQXI S' greatest strengths is its lovable cast of characters. The standout performer is an entertainer who masterfully balances campy humor with undeniable charm. While the silent protagonist may feel like a forgettable presence, the supporting cast shines brilliantly, making this one of Dragon Quest's most remarkable lineups.

Gameplay in DQXI S is grounded in JRPG conventions, offering a turn-based battle system. Characters take turns trading blows with enemies until one side emerges victorious. Spells are governed by Magic Points (MP), and your party includes mages, healers, and thieves. While the game introduces some tweaks to the system, they remain relatively minor or optional. The enjoyment lies in strategizing how to combine character abilities effectively to overcome challenging foes. The game offers enough customization options to make you feel like you're truly shaping your characters.

Exploration in DQXI S is not open-world; it follows a linear path similar to previous entries in the series. While it doesn't confine you to narrow corridors, it doesn't provide complete freedom either. The game strikes a balance that feels natural and justified, offering enticing side paths for the curious explorer. Although you won't have full freedom to chart your course, the occasional detour leads to valuable gear or rare items.

The game's guidance is evident, with icons indicating meaningful interactions and quests, helping you navigate its extensive world. While side quests are somewhat scarce, they offer worthwhile rewards, from crafting materials to experience points that negate the need for excessive grinding. DQXI S seems to anticipate grinding, but clever use of abilities can mitigate the necessity. A mere level or two can significantly impact a challenging boss fight.

A notable feature is the Draconic Adventure mechanic, allowing you to impose optional challenges on yourself. These challenges, like reduced EXP gain or disabling escape from battles, can redefine your experience. They can be disabled at churches if they become too burdensome, but once disabled, they cannot be reactivated without starting a new game. While these challenges may not be for everyone, they offer added depth for devoted Dragon Quest fans seeking a more rigorous adventure.

DQXI S' main drawback is its unwavering commitment to the series' traditions, even for a franchise known for its conservatism. With Dragon Quest IX being one of the more experimental entries, and Dragon Quest X an MMO, it's reasonable for DQ11 to return to its roots. At its core, DQXI S is an endearing and predictable example of the JRPG genre, providing charming characters, beautiful graphics, and refined gameplay. It doesn't break new ground, but it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic JRPGs.

While DQXI S may not be a game-changer, its familiarity and charm make it an excellent entry point for newcomers to the JRPG genre. It captures the essence of traditional JRPGs and, while repetitive for longtime Dragon Quest enthusiasts, offers a delightful and enjoyable experience.

Presentation inDQXI S is delightful, with Akira Toriyama's character designs and monsters adding a pop of color to the world. The game's bright and colorful aesthetic, although old-school, distinguishes it from JRPGs that merely mimic the past, demonstrating growth while honoring its roots. Voice acting infuses the characters with personality, with distinctive accents and charming voices making the cast come to life. The soundtrack, while expected, delivers on the classic Dragon Quest style, featuring a few standout tracks among its more average compositions.

In summary, Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age is a shining example of the franchise's enduring charm. It may play it safe, but it provides an engaging and polished experience that showcases the best of the Dragon Quest series. While it may not be groundbreaking, it's a fantastic starting point for newcomers to the franchise and a lovable, fun, and enjoyable JRPG in its own right.

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