The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is one of the most iconic consoles of all time, and its library of games is filled with classics that still hold up today. Two of the most beloved titles on the SNES are Dragon Quest I & II, developed by Square (now Square Enix), which were initially released in Japan for the Famicom Disk System. In this article, we'll take a closer look at these two games, their reviews, and what made them so special.

Background

The Dragon Quest series, also known as Dragon Warrior outside of Japan, has been a staple of Japanese RPGs since its release in 1986. The first game, Dragon Quest, was developed by Yuji Horii and Akira Toriyama, who would go on to become one of the most iconic duos in video game history. The series has since grown to include numerous sequels, prequels, and spin-offs, but it's the original games that hold a special place in the hearts of many gamers.

Dragon Quest I & II were released in Japan in 1989 for the Famicom Disk System, with Dragon Quest receiving an 18+ rating due to its violent content and mature themes. The games were later ported to the SNES, which allowed them to reach a wider audience. In this article, we'll focus on the SNES versions of these two games.

Gameplay

Dragon Quest I & II are traditional RPGs with turn-based combat, exploration, and character development. Players control a party of heroes as they journey through a fantasy world, battling monsters, collecting treasures, and completing quests to save the world from an evil sorcerer.

In Dragon Quest I, players can choose from six different classes for their hero: warrior, monk, thief, mage, cleric, and black belt. Each class has its unique abilities and attributes, which affect gameplay in various ways. For example, the black belt's low defense stat means they're more vulnerable to attacks, but their high strength stat makes them a formidable foe in close combat.

In contrast, Dragon Quest II features a more streamlined character creation system, with fewer class options available. However, this simplicity allows for faster character progression and more accessible gameplay for new players.

Graphics and Sound

The SNES versions of Dragon Quest I & II boast impressive graphics and soundtracks that still hold up today. The games feature charming 16-bit visuals, with detailed character designs and environments that bring the fantasy world to life.

One of the standout features of the series is its iconic soundtrack, composed by Koichi Sugiyama. His scores are instantly recognizable, with memorable themes for each game's main characters and locations. The sound effects are equally impressive, with realistic monster noises and satisfying combat sounds that immerse players in the world.

Reception

Dragon Quest I & II were well-received upon their release on the SNES, with critics praising their engaging gameplay, charming graphics, and memorable soundtrack. Review aggregator website GameRankings lists the games' average score as 85% for both titles.

In terms of age rating, Dragon Quest I & II received a 13+ rating in Japan for their mild violence, suggestive content, and fantasy themes. However, this rating has since changed to 16+, due to more mature themes, graphic violence, and some suggestive content.

In the West, the games were initially rated E for Everyone by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), but as with many Japanese RPGs, this rating was later upgraded to T for Teen, citing "mild fantasy violence" and "fantasy action sequences."

Reviews

Dragon Quest I

• IGN: 8.5/10 - "A charming, addictive game that's sure to please fans of the series."
• Electronic Gaming Monthly (EGM): B+ - "A solid, if unremarkable, RPG with a lot of heart."
• GameSpot: 7.4/10 - "A fun, if formulaic, RPG with some great characters and a memorable soundtrack."

Dragon Quest II

• IGN: 8.5/10 - "A more streamlined RPG that's just as charming and addictive as the first game."
• Electronic Gaming Monthly (EGM): A- - "A great follow-up to the original, with a few minor tweaks to make it even better."
• GameSpot: 7.9/10 - "A fun, action-packed RPG with some impressive graphics and sound."

Conclusion

Dragon Quest I & II are two classic games that showcase the best of the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. With their engaging gameplay, charming graphics, and memorable soundtrack, they're a must-play for fans of traditional RPGs.

While the games may not have aged as well as some other titles on the SNES, their nostalgic value is still high, and new players will appreciate the challenges and rewards that come with exploring these classic worlds. If you're a fan of Japanese RPGs or just looking for something different from your usual gaming fare, Dragon Quest I & II are definitely worth checking out.

Age Rating

• Japan: 16+ (due to mature themes, graphic violence, and some suggestive content)
• West: T for Teen (mild fantasy violence and fantasy action sequences)

Rating Breakdown:

• Age: 13+
• Violence: Mild
• Suggestive Content: Some
• Fantasy Themes: Strong

Recommendation:

If you're a fan of traditional RPGs or just looking for something different from your usual gaming fare, Dragon Quest I & II are definitely worth checking out. While the games may not have aged as well as some other titles on the SNES, their nostalgic value is still high, and new players will appreciate the challenges and rewards that come with exploring these classic worlds.

In terms of age rating, while the games are suitable for older children and adults, they may be too intense for younger players due to mature themes and graphic violence. Parental discretion is advised.