Dragon Quest
Dragon Quest is a 1986 JRPG developed by Chunsoft and published by Enix, and it helped establish the console role-playing genre in Japan. A lone descendant of a legendary hero sets out to rescue a princess and defeat the evil Dragonlord.
It distilled the complex Western computer RPGs that inspired it into an accessible, streamlined form, featuring turn-based battles, experience-based leveling, gold, equipment, and a top-down overworld to explore, all guided by clear objectives suited to newcomers. Character and monster designs by Dragon Ball creator Akira Toriyama and a memorable orchestral score by Koichi Sugiyama gave it a distinct and enduring identity. Its enormous success in Japan effectively shaped the entire JRPG genre and launched one of gaming's longest-running franchises.
Modern remakes and re-releases have brought the early games to contemporary platforms, and the series continues to this day with major, hugely popular new mainline entries.
Play it today
Modern alternatives to Dragon Quest, with the devices they run on and their price. Ordered editorially by how well each one stands in for the original, with community votes weighted in as they accumulate.
Prices, platform availability and Steam Deck compatibility can change at any time. Always check the store page before buying.
Sea of Stars Indie
€ 34,99An indie RPG lovingly inspired by classic turn-based console adventures.
Sea of Stars runs on PC. Not available on Mac, Linux, iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch. It is Steam Deck Verified.
Dragon Quest XI S
€ 44,99A modern entry in the series with classic turn-based combat and charming visuals.
Dragon Quest XI S runs on PC. Not available on Mac, Linux, iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch. It is Steam Deck Playable.
Sign in or create an account to add an alternative or vote.