Aside from getting an extended hands-on session with the game, I also got to ask a couple of questions to Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake producer Masaaki Hayasaka in a recent media roundtable.
From my experience with the highly anticipated HD-2D Remake, what stood out to me was the fact that it’s an incredibly charming game thanks to its presentation. Even as someone who’s not a Dragon Quest veteran, I enjoyed my hands-on with the game.
Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake producer Masaaki Hayasaka at the Square Enix office.
It turns out that capturing this charming aspect of the original was a key factor during the game’s development – a fact shared by Hayasaka during our interview. He also revealed that the HD-2D presentation was key in retaining the original’s atmosphere.
Hayasaka explained:
“The reason why we decided to go with HD-2D is that this graphic style really shines in the more retro style of games. So, we felt that out of the many different graphic expressions that exist today, given that the original title was released almost 30 years ago, we felt that the best and most suitable way to express it would be to go HD-2D rather than full 3D.
As far as staying faithful to the original version, our general direction for this title was to try to keep the charm of the original intact as much as possible. The new elements were modernized elements for playability and accessibility reasons. But as far as the original content goes, we wanted to stay as faithful as possible to it.”
In many ways, the HD-2D style is the perfect fit for the game as Hayasaka mentioned, though it’s also fitting from the development side. That’s because Hayasaka was heavily involved in the creation of Octopath Traveler – the game that essentially “invented” the style.
“Octopath Traveler was the only HD-2D title that I’ve been involved in”, said Hayasaka. “But because it was the first title where we implemented the style, I was there when we laid the foundations of it. I saw from the beginning to the end how it was made and how the audience reacted to it. I’m also aware of the building blocks and essence of what makes HD-2D great. So, I was able to fully utilize everything I learned in the development [of Octopath Traveler] for Dragon Quest III.”
When it comes to this style of RPG, many players often think of the visuals first and foremost. This makes sense given how the “2.5D” aesthetic of games like Octopath or Live-a-Live is a big hit among JRPG fans. Though visuals aren’t the only factor in making HD-2D games work. That’s because music is also key in building the atmosphere.
Regarding the music for the Dragon Quest III Remake, Hayasaka said:
“[While developing] Octopath Traveler, I realized that for HD-2D graphics, an orchestral sound suits the atmosphere. It heightens the atmosphere for the HD-2D style, and the orchestral sound is so expansive that it does a lot to enhance the visuals of the game as well. They go hand in hand very well.
Along with the soundtrack, the environmental sounds and sound effects are also [important in] building the atmosphere. I oversaw everything, down to every single sound within the game to build up the atmosphere. And of course, I spoke with Hori-san and got his guidance to see what was most suitable for HD-2D. So, I feel like I was able to bring everything that I learned and all my experiences into the development of Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake.”
After mentioning series creator Yuji Horii, Hayasaka soon shared his thoughts on working with Horii, as well as working on the remake of this iconic game.
“I myself am a Dragon Quest fan”, said Hayasaka. “I played the games before I came into the industry, so just to be able to work with Horii-san on one of the most legendary and beloved titles in the series [is special]. And you know, Dragon Quest III also has a very special place in Horii-san’s heart, so to have been able to work with him and bring that game to the modern age is a highlight in my career as a game developer. It’s a true honor. The fact that we were able to recreate this legendary title using the latest technology and bring it to modern audiences is something I’m very proud of.”
Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake will be released on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, and PC on November 14, 2024.