Dragon Quest VII Reimagined – Demo Review and First Impressions
Dragon Quest VII Reimagined – Demo Review and First Impressions
Dragon Quest VII is returning once again, but this time, it’s not just another remaster. With its February 6th release on the horizon, Square Enix has dropped a playable demo that gives fans an early look at what this new version has to offer. After spending time with it, one thing is clear: this isn’t simply a visual upgrade. It’s a reimagining.
A Reimagining, Not Just a Remaster
This marks the second time Dragon Quest VII has been remastered, but calling this version a “remaster” undersells what’s happening here. Built in Unreal Engine, the game features a bold new art style that blends classic Dragon Quest charm with a more stylized, modern aesthetic. It’s a fresh take that will absolutely resonate with some players, especially those who prefer artistic reinterpretations over strict recreations.
A Time‑Traveling Adventure, Streamlined
The heart of the game remains the same: you travel to the past to fix the present, uncovering lost civilizations and restoring the world piece by piece. It’s a classic JRPG premise, and it still works.
What’s different this time is the pacing. The narrative has been streamlined, trimming some of the slower early‑game moments that the original was known for. The result is a smoother, more accessible experience that gets players into the adventure faster.
Combat and Gameplay Improvements
Combat has been refined as well. It’s simple, clean, and easy to grasp perfectly for newcomers or returning fans who want a more modern feel. Puzzles are on the simpler side, which keeps the momentum going rather than slowing the player down.
The game also leans heavily into guidance. Quest markers, clear objectives, and directional cues are everywhere. For players who love structure, this is a win. For those who enjoy exploration and discovery, it may feel a bit restrictive.
A Demo With Mixed Reactions
Steam discussion threads show a wide range of reactions. Some players love the new direction and appreciate the accessibility. Others feel unsure about the changes or prefer the more traditional style of past versions.
But demos are just a slice of the full experience, and opinions may shift once the complete game launches.
One major plus: your demo progress carries over if you buy the full game. No need to replay the opening hours.
Performance and Features
The demo runs impressively well on the Steam Deck, which is a great sign for handheld players. Before diving in, you’ll name your character and set up your preferred settings, a small but welcome touch that personalizes the adventure.
Other standout features include:
Japanese and English voice acting
Fun, original soundtracks
The ability to pet cats and dogs (always a win)
A unique art direction that sets this version apart
These details help give the reimagining its own identity.
My Personal Take
While Dragon Quest VII Reimagined has a distinctive art style that many players will genuinely enjoy, it didn’t fully click for me. The stylized visuals are well‑crafted, but they lean into a more guided, curated experience than I typically prefer. I’m someone who gravitates toward open-ended games with freedom, exploration, and minimal hand-holding, so the abundance of quest markers and constant direction pulled me out of the experience a bit.
That said, this is very much a matter of taste. Players who appreciate clear objectives, streamlined progression, and a more accessible JRPG structure will likely find a lot to love here. It’s not a bad direction, just not the one that resonates with my personal playstyle.
Final Thoughts
Dragon Quest VII Reimagined feels like a bold attempt to modernize a beloved classic. The art style is striking, the pacing is tighter, and the gameplay is more approachable than ever. While early reactions are mixed, the demo shows real promise, and with progress carrying over, it’s absolutely worth trying if you’re curious.
The full release on February 6th will reveal whether this reimagining can win over both longtime fans and newcomers. For now, the demo suggests a game that respects its roots while confidently stepping into a new era.