Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age

 PlayStation 4
User Score
8.6

Generally favorable reviews- based on 971 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 822 out of 971
  2. Mixed: 70 out of 971
  3. Negative: 79 out of 971
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  1. tbouniverse
    Mar 17, 2019
    10
    If you loved Persona 5, be prepared to be equally awestruck. Dragon Quest XI is another 100+ hour experience with AWESOME characters, robust RPG/JRPG mechanics, unique Toriyama (DBZ) artwork, phenomenal innocent-yet-mature environment, full of customization options and a memorable soundtrack to boot.

    If you can push past the first couple of hours, you've got a winner because this game    If you loved Persona 5, be prepared to be equally awestruck. Dragon Quest XI is another 100+ hour experience with AWESOME characters, robust RPG/JRPG mechanics, unique Toriyama (DBZ) artwork, phenomenal innocent-yet-mature environment, full of customization options and a memorable soundtrack to boot.

    If you can push past the first couple of hours, you've got a winner because this game is the real deal. The story was around three times larger than regular games with resonating storytelling. When you include another 30+ hours of adorable and immersive side-quests, you will realize the depth this game has, if you haven't already gotten lost exploring vast dungeons and settlements, on land and sea.

    Must-play for anyone who enjoys RPGs and even if you think "this isn't my cup of tea", I would strongly recommend it because there is definitely something in to for you. A well deserved 10/10.    … Expand
  2. DrChocolate
    Nov 26, 2018
    10
    If you enjoyed Dragon Quest 8 as much as I have over the years, this is the game you have been waiting for.

    DQ11 takes everything that was great from 8 and expands on it: new ability system, updated combat that works like the Gambit system from FF12, a horse mount that runs at blinding speed, platforming in towns, updated alchemy system, updated saving system-- in short, it's a    If you enjoyed Dragon Quest 8 as much as I have over the years, this is the game you have been waiting for.

    DQ11 takes everything that was great from 8 and expands on it: new ability system, updated combat that works like the Gambit system from FF12, a horse mount that runs at blinding speed, platforming in towns, updated alchemy system, updated saving system-- in short, it's a wonderful game, an old school JRPG with immense charm and many improved features. If you enjoy JRPGS, this must go on your shelf.    … Expand
  3. Risax
    Sep 19, 2018
    10
    I am going to start this review off by saying I might be a bit biased, considering how I really enjoy the Dragon Quest games.

    Dragon Quest XI starts off like most Dragon Quest games. You are a village boy of sixteen years old who goes to meet the king and eventually you have to fight a demonic overlord. It does throw some curve balls, of course. But the big storypoints mostly stay the    I am going to start this review off by saying I might be a bit biased, considering how I really enjoy the Dragon Quest games.

    Dragon Quest XI starts off like most Dragon Quest games. You are a village boy of sixteen years old who goes to meet the king and eventually you have to fight a demonic overlord. It does throw some curve balls, of course. But the big storypoints mostly stay the same.

    Now, first of all, the game looks beautiful. It's so colourful and the music is fantastic. Again the character designs are done by Akira Toriyama and your protagonist resembles Android 17 quite a bit. Combat is much unchanged. You can walk around, but your position on the field doesn't really seem to matter.

    Overall, the game always kept me entertained and it never felt like a chore playing. Well, almost never. There is some content after the main game that requirers you to go through some Trials that puts you through areas you've already visited. It mainly seems to be used as a fun way to grind to defeat the True Final Boss and it gives you the chance to get better equipment and recipes, so I didn't mind it THAT much. Another thing I disliked was the voice acting, but you can turn that off if you prefer.

    In any case, I'd recommend this game to anyone who is a fan of JRPGs. You need no knowledge of the other Dragon Quest games.    … Expand
  4. NaotaChanel
    Sep 6, 2018
    10
    I was expecting a good JRPG, that would bring back the memories of the golden age of video games.
    What I got was that and much more.
    This is the best RPG of the past 10 years, and that's no exaggeration.
  5. PaulSeralt
    Jan 12, 2019
    10
    Good old school jrpg. If you liked old Final Fantasy games, Chrono Trigger and so on and find that other modern jrpg just don't scratch that itch as good as old jrpg, this is the game for you.
    To me, this game is a 10/10: good story, lovable characters with growth during the story and their personal story arcs, tactial gameplay and character building that is not vestigial.
    But beware, if    Good old school jrpg. If you liked old Final Fantasy games, Chrono Trigger and so on and find that other modern jrpg just don't scratch that itch as good as old jrpg, this is the game for you.
    To me, this game is a 10/10: good story, lovable characters with growth during the story and their personal story arcs, tactial gameplay and character building that is not vestigial.
    But beware, if you don't like jrpg this game won't convert you, this game is intended for people who like this kind of games, and being truthful to them (insted of going all action like FF did) is it's strong point for jrpg lovers as it is why people who don't like the genre should think a moment before buying it and complain about it later.

    PRO
    - very long (doing the whole storyline and sidequest take around 80 - 100 hours if you are not a completionist);
    - nice story;
    - good characters;
    - the world is beautiful;
    - some improvments to the traditionals jrpg mechanics, this game avoid frustration in any way possible without dumbing down on anything;

    CONS
    - the music is good in my opinion, but some people found it not great;
    - may not be for you if you are not a jrpg fan;
    - is a little too easy if you play vanilla, but that can be solved by the game itself: when you start a new game you can add in some draconiac quests that will make this game one of the hardest jrpg out there;

    Tl,dr: if you like jrpg this is a must buy; if you want to try jrpg, this is a great well done modern take on the classical formula; if you don't like jrpg this game may not be for you    … Expand
  6. rubenleo25
    Sep 9, 2018
    10
    at last the real rpg game whe deserve, dragon quest xi is the return of clasic rpg.
  7. Usercool
    Sep 18, 2019
    10
    Dragon Quest XI is everything what you'd expect and love about a classic JRPG. And I really have to emphasize 'classic JRPG formula' here. Don't expect innovative gameplay but an enthralling story, solid game mechanics and everything that makes you return over and over to this genre. The voice acting seems to be less well produced than DQ VIII but this is a game that will easily take 100+Dragon Quest XI is everything what you'd expect and love about a classic JRPG. And I really have to emphasize 'classic JRPG formula' here. Don't expect innovative gameplay but an enthralling story, solid game mechanics and everything that makes you return over and over to this genre. The voice acting seems to be less well produced than DQ VIII but this is a game that will easily take 100+ hours of your time to complete and you won't regret it for a second.… Expand
  8. Nican
    Sep 30, 2018
    10
    Dragon quest games never disappoint , and this one is particularly good. Definetly best classic jrpg of the year so far.
  9. Spazilton
    Jul 27, 2019
    10
    Almost perfect in every way. The best Dragon Quest game to date. Every bit the masterpiece 8 was and more. If Turn Based RPGs are your thing, this is the game to get. Absolutely classic JRPG, and one of the top 5 games for the PS4, and the best Dragon Quest to date.
  10. Kai82
    Oct 3, 2020
    10
    One of the best RPGs in years. They transferred a classic turn based RPG from the nineties in our times keeping all that is / was great while avoiding the parts that would not work well today. It is the kind of RPG what fans wanted for years from Square Enix. While I must admit that they use tropes or staples of the genre they also made twists, challenge your expectations in a good way andOne of the best RPGs in years. They transferred a classic turn based RPG from the nineties in our times keeping all that is / was great while avoiding the parts that would not work well today. It is the kind of RPG what fans wanted for years from Square Enix. While I must admit that they use tropes or staples of the genre they also made twists, challenge your expectations in a good way and have some unique ideas. The story is really good. Your hero / protagonist did survive an attack that destroyed his hometown as infant and was adopted and raised in a small village. He bears the mark of the chosen one and after participating in the coming of age ritual the truth is revealed to him. Like I said it sounds pretty generic but you will soon get the first surprising twist. As the story progresses you get new party members, explore a fascinating world full of good characters and with enjoyable stories. The twists are good and I was always engaged in the story. What impressed me the most is what comes after you thought you finished the story. Be careful this is considered by many as spoilers! “Spoiler starts here”: You get a chance do undo the past. While you won the world suffered heavily. Basically you return to the half-point of the game and experience a new scenario, story and events. It felt like a second game for free. “End of spoilers”. Then there are the team members. One of the best cast in years because I struggled to pick my favorite team. All have their own stories, baggage and goals. Be it Erik the thief with a troubled hearth of gold, the twins Veronica and Serena, Sylvando the all should follow their hearths and everyone should be happy guy, Jade the female martial artist with depth and character and Rab the old man who is more than meets the eye. There is a character that I cant name because of spoilers. Then there is the graphic. As recommended by Dragon Quest standard the artworks are from Akira Toriyama who is most famous for Dragonball. The characters, monsters and world look gorgeous. They go for the anime look and I think it is fitting. The soundtrack however is a mixed back. They did not made an orchestral soundtrack and sometimes the music does not fit. However I will still say it is good but less than expected or what could be. There is a system to develop your characters. As you level up you get skill points that can be used to learn new abilities on an ability grid. You have often multiple approaches per character and you should not mix except for synergies or you have learned everything in your current role. For example Jade can use spears that are really strong weapons or claws that are weaker but have two attacks per action. Both variants have unique abilities and effects. Mostly it depends on preferences but there are of cause abilities that are more useful and if you are lucky you get some bonus skill points for unlocking abilities on the grid. Side note: Some abilities are locked on the grid until you acquired enough skills around them. There are a lot of side quest and some optional mini games. You can participate in horse races, collect medals for the academy, find weather cows, play casino games and more. I like the humor and some quirks for the characters. There is a robust crafting system in the game where you can make new equipment and / or improve your current once. What I felt is a missed opportunity are the pep powers. Your characters power up Super Saiyan style from time to time. However it is too unpredictable to use except you switch them out immediately and stop using them until you need them (Even this is not that usable). There are pep powered team combos with some good effect. I think the most useful is a combo from the protagonist, Jade and Sylvando. You can summon metal slimes for immense amounts of experience points from defeat (Erik has one attack that instant kills one because it has a guaranteed critical hit). Overall this was a surprisingly good game with lots of nostalgia and a world I liked to explored filled with good content / stories. Bonus: The Switch version is even better.… Expand
  11. TomasLacerda
    Jun 28, 2020
    10
    This game is visually stunning, it's really polished on everything! There is a lot of content, the characters are interesting and have unique personalities, the story gets more interesting as you go, it isn't as bland as initially seems. Really good voice acting, the quests types are really varied, it is an amazing RPG. I was skeptic in the beginning but fell in love for it.
  12. jewel5
    Mar 17, 2019
    10
    This game is fantastic!! I haven't enjoyed a game this much since Witcher 3. I'm about 60 hours in and the pllot has just turned on it's head. If you love a good story, buy this game, even if you've never tried a jrpg before. I don't see how anyone could not LOVE this game.
  13. Serenityinaz12
    Sep 4, 2018
    10
    Absolutely amazing - after a decade of the gaming media trying to force action battles down our throats telling everyone no one likes turn based anymore, here we have a game that tops all of them.
  14. ElektroDragon
    Sep 24, 2018
    10
    I have been waiting 14 years for another single player console Dragon Quest game! I am not in the least disappointed, this game is EVERYTHING I was hoping it would be and more. Infinitely more playable and more fun than FFXV. Please fellow gamers, buy this masterpiece so Squeenix localizes future installments! They say that if it does not sell well the localization is in jeopardy.I have been waiting 14 years for another single player console Dragon Quest game! I am not in the least disappointed, this game is EVERYTHING I was hoping it would be and more. Infinitely more playable and more fun than FFXV. Please fellow gamers, buy this masterpiece so Squeenix localizes future installments! They say that if it does not sell well the localization is in jeopardy. Although if they are concerned about sales I am not sure why they'd make it a PlayStation exclusive, but regardless, this is a MUST PLAY game!… Expand
  15. gq_foine
    Jan 12, 2019
    10
    After 100hrs+ and clearing the game with the "TRUE ENDING" I felt that I can give a proper review. Seeing others playing 10hrs and saying they had enough.. They are missing the entire game because the story doesn't even get good till 40-50hrs.. Anyone giving a less than a 8 after 10hrs of playing is just a dumb review! They are not even DRAGON Quest fans.. I have played theAfter 100hrs+ and clearing the game with the "TRUE ENDING" I felt that I can give a proper review. Seeing others playing 10hrs and saying they had enough.. They are missing the entire game because the story doesn't even get good till 40-50hrs.. Anyone giving a less than a 8 after 10hrs of playing is just a dumb review! They are not even DRAGON Quest fans.. I have played the original NES when I was a child and evolution of this series is just awesome!

    Right now I am doing all the "post game" stuff which is actually fun! The story doesn't get really great till you start playing the "Post Game" stuff to find out what is really going on! This is my 2018 RPG game of the year with Octopath Travelers running very close. This was a very tough choice to pick between the two, but I really loved Dragon Quest slightly more probably because of the game series.

    This is the BEST Dragon Quest game in the entire series with number 8 closely behind it!!

    The Dragon Quest formula has not changed since the beginning and i really liked that. Having played the original Dragon Warriors (Quest) back in the 80s with the turn base battle mechanics formula, which hasn't changed too much. The music is also very similar from the original and I very much liked that.

    The graphics are absolutely stunning and some of the best Anime background and art style I have seen - 10! I love the backgrounds, cut scenes and characters.

    The Music is an 8 for me. While they kept the similar music I felt they could have added real melodies to rather than the old retro sounds to give it a more a crisp sound and background. They only used their main song from the Orchestra and you can tell the difference and wished they used more of that style and music choices all throughout the game to give it a more polished feel.

    Gameplay battle mechanics 9 - This is your standard turnbase game and love the fact they added a couple of new elements to it - "PEP". I would like for them to have better menu choices so it doesn't get in the way of the gameplay or a more cleaner approach. I didn't like the fact you can move your characters around to different positions, but made absolutely no difference. But overall its very smooth gameplay and I loved they haven't changed the formula too much on this.

    Story - This was 10. The reason why is because the game doesn't heat up till you get to the POST game when you find out more about what is going on - Don't want to spoil so don't miss the "POST" game story! Its very good!! The character development is also awesome with some really fun group of people to travel and fight!

    Overall - I would give this a 9.5 rounded it off to a 10 since this is the BEST Dragon Quest game in the series!! I would give this the RPG game of the year with Octopath Travelers running closely behind it. I will buy the Switch version when it comes out so I can play it on the go!    … Expand
  16. minuano2k
    Feb 1, 2019
    10
    정통 턴제 rpg의 미래.
    점점 시대에서 밀려나고 있는 현실이지만, 분명 턴제만이 줄수 있는 매력이 있다.
    그 매력을 얼마나 현대적 관점에서도 살려낼수 있느냐가 쉽지 않은 일이지만,
    드퀘11은 굉장히 멋지게 턴제의 매력을 보여주는데 성공했다.
  17. gusman
    Sep 25, 2018
    10
    Best game in years. DQ XI whipes the floor with BotW, that crap doesn't deserves a 10, this game does.
  18. Antihater
    Jan 2, 2019
    10
    I Just recently picked this game Up and I love it, it's just like DQ8 and that's not a bad thing at all. Nice animated graphics, solid battle system with turn based game play, but the enemies are on screen as you travel no random thank god, having no random encounters is amazing you can choose who you want to fight. If you say you like random encounters take off the nostalgia glassesI Just recently picked this game Up and I love it, it's just like DQ8 and that's not a bad thing at all. Nice animated graphics, solid battle system with turn based game play, but the enemies are on screen as you travel no random thank god, having no random encounters is amazing you can choose who you want to fight. If you say you like random encounters take off the nostalgia glasses because it's glued on to your face. It's a classic JRPG style done well in a modern way, lots to do with interesting artwork and story. Plus if you like DBZ the hero looks like future trunks. A must buy for JRPG fans on the PS4. It always seems like the users and critics always disagree, these critics are not even gamers. Don't listen to the idiots complaining about the music it's typical JRPG music not the best by no means but not bad either.… Expand
  19. iSMeDz
    Apr 13, 2020
    10
    Finally the return Of the King ...a real j-rpg with a timless turn based gameplay
  20. suutto
    Sep 10, 2018
    10
    totemo ii game. totemo iiyo... korezo old school na rpg de music mo graphics mo iine.
  21. TackyTitan
    Dec 30, 2018
    10
    The most fun I've had playing a game this year. It made me feel like a kid playing a JRPG for the first time again. I'm not a fan of turn-based combat systems or JRPGs in general but this game definitely made me appreciate the genre more and made me interested in playing other entries. Can I get a Dragon Quest 8 remake for PS4 please?
  22. moncikoma
    Dec 17, 2018
    10
    Im Grateful to have played Dragon Quest, 11/10 JRPG of the decade for me... WoW

    My Top 3 JRPG definitely!
    After xenogears, suikoden2

    I just want to say . Please dont let JRPG like DQXI die.. the ending give me goosebumbs and insight on HOW JRPG should be made

    The essence of JRPG is precious and We have to pass it to our kids and grandson until the end of time..
  23. HellaSavageX
    Sep 9, 2018
    10
    This is one of the best RPG's in YEARS! As many RPG's seemingly are trying to leave turn based attacking and reinvent the wheel, DQ11 goes back to the roots of what made us all fall in love with RPG's in the first place! This game is great for beginners and DQ veterans alike, I feel this game will go down as the best DQ game in the series to date! 10 out of 10!!!
  24. BuyThisSheet
    Sep 5, 2018
    10
    This is one of the best JRPG's of the year, adding to the PS4's great library of JRPG's.
  25. Zurce
    Oct 12, 2018
    10
    El mejor RPG del año, un juego que aun llegando tarde a occidente nos demuestra que se pueden seguir haciendo grandes hazañas con el sistema por turnos. Un indispensable si eres fan del genero.
  26. treestand
    Sep 16, 2018
    10
    A masterwork of the Genre. This game is not revolutionary in any sense, but it accomplishes everything it wants to with amazing fidelity and obvious love and care. The storytelling, characters, design and gameplay are all just so well done. It's a beautiful thing, and really has me excited for the future of Dragon Quest games.
  27. rhamade19
    Sep 4, 2018
    10
    I've never played a dragon quest game, but this game looks incredibly intriguing and I'm willing to give it a shot. Everything that I've seen so far makes this game a must have in my opinion
  28. manusax
    Nov 13, 2021
    10
    A masterpiece. Story a little bit for children, but the game is a 10.

    More than a hundred hours. This was my game during pandemic.
  29. Benniphx
    Sep 5, 2018
    10
    Absolutely amazing - I feel like a kid again playing the first time final fantasy. now so many years later it great to have nice old school jrpgs again.
  30. 17_jrpg
    Sep 6, 2018
    10
    Last year the best JRPG on the PS4 was Persona 5, and this year is Dragon Quest XI! Persona 5 was a great success for Atlus because it kept its unique style - they used the same formula which they used in the predecessors. The same thing Square Enix has done with Dragon Quest XI. The story of this game is great, but I will not talk about the story because of spoilers. I will actually sayLast year the best JRPG on the PS4 was Persona 5, and this year is Dragon Quest XI! Persona 5 was a great success for Atlus because it kept its unique style - they used the same formula which they used in the predecessors. The same thing Square Enix has done with Dragon Quest XI. The story of this game is great, but I will not talk about the story because of spoilers. I will actually say something about gameplay. Dragon Quest XI is a turn-based RPG with a semi-open world. The semi-open world allows to player to explore the world through the story, so that you can explore a new region then you must first advance through the story. This way the player can enjoy the story and a gameplay at the same time (it's not like open world games where you can completely ignore the story and use only the mechanics of gameplay). There is no more random encounter. Now, the enemies are moving freely on the map and if the player make a contact with the enemies, the battle screen will open. The battle system is the same as the predecessor with a couple of new elements. Now, the player can choose between two styles in battle: classic style (characters are stationary on battlefield) and modern style (characters can be moved around battlefield). One of new element is a swapping system which allows players to change characters during battle with those who are outside the active team (this reminds me of battle system from FFX). This function can allow you to make a better strategy (tactic) in battle. When comparing gameplay of Dragon Quest XI with Dragon Quest VIII (the best Dragon Quest game), I can say that Dragon Quest XI is an upgraded version of Dragon Quest VIII (so for this reason would like to see the remake of Dragon Quest VIII for the PS4 with the same engine). Full 14 years, Dragon Quest VIII has kept the title of the best Dragon Quest game, and now it has been surpassed by Dragon Quest XI. As a conclusion I can say that Dragon Quest XI has a great story, gameplay, very beautiful graphics and great sound. This game is the best Dragon Quest game and is one of the best JRPGs ever. We need more such JRPGs on PlayStation, with turn-based battle system and semi-open world. Persona 5 and Dragon Quest XI prove that such games can be more successful than some action RPGs.… Expand
  31. pixelpassion
    Sep 4, 2018
    10
    This is a modern classic it's a old friend returned a comfort a familiarity that's lasted like no other in gaming.....it's Dragon Quest at it's finest ♥️
  32. Noodle69ish
    Sep 13, 2018
    10
    The game-play is great. The story is phenomenal. The music is legendary. The art is beautiful. The progression is perfect. This series is one of the most underrated of all time over here in America, I say no more. Play this game immediately people, it will be the best 100-140 hours of your gaming life
  33. Juash
    Oct 2, 2018
    10
    One of the best RPG I've played in recent times.

    I'm really struck by how well taken care of the design of the enemies and their animations.
  34. Zypern
    Sep 12, 2018
    10
    It's a really great game overall. One of the best JRPG I have played in since psx era.
  35. RepentantSky
    Oct 5, 2018
    10
    The only real problem I can think of for this game is the town music you'll hear again and again, which prevents some of them from having a much needed identity, plus because it plays so often, it does become the most annoying track in the game, but also the only one that's ever really a problem. The rest of the music, the gameplay, the story, the characters, all of it is perfect.The only real problem I can think of for this game is the town music you'll hear again and again, which prevents some of them from having a much needed identity, plus because it plays so often, it does become the most annoying track in the game, but also the only one that's ever really a problem. The rest of the music, the gameplay, the story, the characters, all of it is perfect.

    Dragon Quest XI is also without a doubt the best game on the PS4 this year, and the best RPG of the year as well, especially after Ni No Kuni II failed to reach it's lofty expectations. But even without that comparison, DQXI is the best RPG we've had in years, and without a doubt the best Dragon Quest game we've had since DQVIII's original release on the PS2. Level 5 changed the way we view Dragon Quest back then, and Square has proudly and effectively, improved upon that formula since those days. Dragon Quest XI is not only the best RPG of the year, it is the best game in the Dragon Quest franchise, and proves that there's plenty of life in this series yet.    … Expand
  36. kirkender
    Jun 7, 2019
    10
    DQXI is the perfect JRPG. Its long, has great characters, lovely stories, simple and super fun combat, tons of stuff to do and gorgeous visuals.

    If you compare this game to other games, this is 6/10 - its slow, weirdly paced, filled with odd things, silly things and the combat system is limited. This is a JRPG for JRPG lovers and purists. Are you replaying Final Fantasy IV and Golden    DQXI is the perfect JRPG. Its long, has great characters, lovely stories, simple and super fun combat, tons of stuff to do and gorgeous visuals.

    If you compare this game to other games, this is 6/10 - its slow, weirdly paced, filled with odd things, silly things and the combat system is limited. This is a JRPG for JRPG lovers and purists. Are you replaying Final Fantasy IV and Golden Sun? DQXI is for you. Do you play God of War and Red Dead Redemption 2? Then you will be bored and die of that boredom.    … Expand
  37. jugadorhardcore
    Sep 6, 2018
    10
    finally a Dragon Quest! great game. a masterpiece! this genre is difficult to come by
  38. M4nU
    Sep 4, 2018
    10
    It has been a long long time since we met...but hopefully you're finally here again. This is simply the real JRPG game for real RPG gamers! There is no way round it: You just love it or hate it...on my opinion this is a piece of classic game history and it is wonderful!
  39. donhocine
    Sep 4, 2018
    10
    simply a dream come true i would never taught that we will one day have a better DQ the DQ8 and 11 just did it im not far unto the game but waw this game is worth a 10
  40. Gaminglife410
    Sep 4, 2018
    10
    This is my very first Dragon Quest and I am pleasantly surprised, the game is fantastic. It's the JRPG that I've been craving ever since finishing Persona 5. I am quite surprised the game isn't getting better user reviews, so far I haven't seen any real big negatives whatsoever.
  41. ulukinatme
    Sep 25, 2018
    10
    I came into this game a little hesitant. I grew up playing many of the old Dragon Quest games, but I always preferred Final Fantasy. I have to say the Final Fantasy franchise has left me disappointed in recent years, but Dragon Quest VIII was a pleasure to play and now 100+ hours into Dragon Quest XI I can say the same for this game. I was pleasantly surprised at the bits of nostalgiaI came into this game a little hesitant. I grew up playing many of the old Dragon Quest games, but I always preferred Final Fantasy. I have to say the Final Fantasy franchise has left me disappointed in recent years, but Dragon Quest VIII was a pleasure to play and now 100+ hours into Dragon Quest XI I can say the same for this game. I was pleasantly surprised at the bits of nostalgia that are sprinkled into this game, but not too much so that it becomes a negative thing. The story really gets good as you play through the game. The characters are great. I was not particularly entertained by some characters at first, but the game completely changed my mind later as their stories developed. I can't remember the last time a game was able to do that. The combat is nothing really new for a Dragon Quest game, but the simplicity is part of that nostalgia and for me it was just fine as it was. The character designs and visuals were superb, and the music was enjoyable as well. I plan on continuing to play this game well past the 100 hours as there are still things I have yet to discover.… Expand
  42. yitus
    Sep 17, 2018
    10
    A masterpiece of video games. It made me feel something special again that I had not felt with a video game for years.
    Dragon Quest XI is at the height of the VIII, reaching to exceed it in certain points, it has certainly become one of my favorite games and for sure it is a game that will mark a before and after in the RPG and in the Dragon Quest Saga.
    Excellent music, exceptional story    A masterpiece of video games. It made me feel something special again that I had not felt with a video game for years.
    Dragon Quest XI is at the height of the VIII, reaching to exceed it in certain points, it has certainly become one of my favorite games and for sure it is a game that will mark a before and after in the RPG and in the Dragon Quest Saga.
    Excellent music, exceptional story plot, sublime graphics.
    Honestly I can not speak badly about this game in anything. A perfect game for my liking.    … Expand
  43. Trix122
    Sep 9, 2018
    10
    Best J-rpg of the last 10 years together with Persona 5, old school full of charisma, amazing fantasy world, depth, challenging if you play hard mode, insane graphics and scenario, great story write and plot, lovely music, every city has it's own way of speaking ,personality and accent simulating different places of the world... could continue all day.

    For me its goty by far.
  44. Evaz
    Sep 9, 2018
    10
    A gem amongst a sea of stones.
    Never did i know,a game could feel like home.
    Ive been searching for a game to truly captivate me like this one has. Ive put countless hours into countless titles, games that have been given high praise yet not once did i find my heart put into these games until now.dragon quest does something a tad bit different from the rest. Theres so much heart and    A gem amongst a sea of stones.
    Never did i know,a game could feel like home.
    Ive been searching for a game to truly captivate me like this one has. Ive put countless hours into countless titles, games that have been given high praise yet not once did i find my heart put into these games until now.dragon quest does something a tad bit different from the rest. Theres so much heart and innocence put into it and examples of this shine with every step taken in this beautiful world.there are games that are made to sell,and there are very few games where the creators ideas and real world beliefs are put into its creation,this is one of those very few examples where the body of work is made to express the very creators being in hopes to shine a light within the players dimmed soul. Play this game with an open mind and heart, take the journey slow and steady and i promise youll enjoy every step of the way    … Expand
  45. Bailiff_Gamer
    Sep 5, 2018
    10
    Great JRPG with turn based combat that reminds me of the gold old time rpgs. The art and graphics are really good and the vintage sound effects are nice and respect the fans of the franchise.
  46. Arcanm
    Sep 4, 2018
    10
    It´s a great game, the best dragon quest ever, amazing soundtrack, im a nintendo fan.
  47. davidco11
    Sep 4, 2018
    10
    This game is like going back to the time of ps2, I am very happy to be able to play again in a new installment after so many years!
  48. popo100100
    Sep 7, 2018
    10
    This game is fantastic. It is foolish someone continues to vote negative score without review .
  49. Zilve
    Sep 4, 2018
    10
    Finally a true jrpg that reminds me of the golden age of rpg's (1990 ish, ps1/ps2 era)

    After many years of mostly terrible games that all felt short on either story, gameplay, or mechanics i am glad to be playing dragon quest XI. The game looks amazing, next to also having a great story, and amazing cutscenes. As a big fan of these old school rpg's ( ff 4-10, grandia, legend of    Finally a true jrpg that reminds me of the golden age of rpg's (1990 ish, ps1/ps2 era)

    After many years of mostly terrible games that all felt short on either story, gameplay, or mechanics i am glad to be playing dragon quest XI.
    The game looks amazing, next to also having a great story, and amazing cutscenes.

    As a big fan of these old school rpg's ( ff 4-10, grandia, legend of legaia, legend of dragoons etc) i am very glad to see that the concept of these games has not been forgotten yet.    … Expand
  50. dizzo
    Sep 4, 2018
    10
    One of the best games I have played in years. The magic of the turn based JRPG is not dead, just long forgotten. This captures the joy of a gaming age of the past, while clothing it it beautiful current gen graphics.
  51. jas2336
    Sep 4, 2018
    10
    Dragon Warrior on the NES was the game that made me fall in love with RPG's so i bought this game thinking it would be worth it based on nostalgia alone and it is. On top of that the look of the game, the turn based combat, the level up and skill system and the story are fantastic. 5 hours in and I'm hooked, I can't wait to get out of work so i can fire up my PS4. 10/10
  52. getsudera
    Sep 5, 2018
    10
    obra maestra uno de los mejores jrpg que jugado el nivel artistico del juego es simplemente espectacular
  53. RogueCloud145
    Sep 5, 2018
    10
    Dragon Quest XI is a throwback to the golden era of JRPG. The modern day graphics, beautiful art style, amazing soundtrack and detail are everything that long-term fans (such as myself) were waiting for. The story is simple, straightforward and captivating. The characters are remarkable and charismatic. The battle system is fast, smooth and fun. The progression, pace and personal reward isDragon Quest XI is a throwback to the golden era of JRPG. The modern day graphics, beautiful art style, amazing soundtrack and detail are everything that long-term fans (such as myself) were waiting for. The story is simple, straightforward and captivating. The characters are remarkable and charismatic. The battle system is fast, smooth and fun. The progression, pace and personal reward is well balanced. I recognize it is not a game for everyone. I would not recommend to people who love action-packed games. Dragon Quest is a rather contemplative series. My final score is 10 (masterpiece)! And game of the year for me!… Expand
  54. LucioTT
    Jul 19, 2020
    10
    finally a good turn based rpg, the game is near perfect, the combat is fun and you have a lot of freedom on how you want your party members to fight, the story is really good, the world feels alive with colour, enemies and secrets to find. lot of dungeons and different towns to discover, the game is long really long, when you think is near its end bang not yet. dragon quest usually meansfinally a good turn based rpg, the game is near perfect, the combat is fun and you have a lot of freedom on how you want your party members to fight, the story is really good, the world feels alive with colour, enemies and secrets to find. lot of dungeons and different towns to discover, the game is long really long, when you think is near its end bang not yet. dragon quest usually means quality and this one is the same. a must play for any rpg fan.… Expand
  55. MiguelLEO
    Jul 10, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Obra maestra el mejor jrpg de PS4, combate, historia, gráficos, secretos, personajes con carisma, MUY LARGO, juegazo… Expand
  56. darklords2009
    Sep 8, 2018
    10
    great and classic game I love it so much.this game have great graphic and animations.the story is great and also has lovely characters.
  57. Meister_Zeigler
    Sep 8, 2018
    10
    Dragon Quest XI is one of the best video games I have ever played. I would rank it somewhere slightly beneath The Legend of Zelda Ocarina of Time in terms of its greatness.
  58. LustLain
    Sep 8, 2018
    10
    Let me preface this review by saying: Do not let the large amount of negative user scores dissuade you from giving this game a shot. I understand that users can't always be bothered to justify their score with a written review, but I did the math and found that approximately 1 review per 10 negative ratings is about what you should normally expect on average. Yet here we are with 45Let me preface this review by saying: Do not let the large amount of negative user scores dissuade you from giving this game a shot. I understand that users can't always be bothered to justify their score with a written review, but I did the math and found that approximately 1 review per 10 negative ratings is about what you should normally expect on average. Yet here we are with 45 negative scores and not even a single review to back it up... not even a half-baked one. Something's clearly fishy here, and if I had to wager a guess, it's probably the work of people who are fanboys of a certain other IP that also recently got a prominent game release. The type of person who would make a huge fuss about minor graphical "downgrades" and "low" high-80s review scores would probably also be liable to get jealous/angry when a very different game reviews comparably to their darling.

    Enough about that though, the game is absolutely fantastic. If you've ever been even remotely curious to give Dragon Quest (or JRPGs in general) a try, this game is an excellent place to finally dive in. It's absolutely gorgeous, has the robust turn-based gameplay that the series is known for, is overflowing with charm at every turn, has a colorful cast of lovable characters starring in a satisfying traditional story told with a refreshing amount of skill and cleverness, has a top-notch localization featuring mostly excellent voice acting, and is just overall an extremely joyful, cozy game to spend dozens of hours with. Some people say it's old school to a fault, but I couldn't disagree more. Its way of doing things are different than other major JRPG releases of the decade, such as Persona 5, but it's no less valid. It's absolutely not just tradition for tradition's sake.

    My single biggest criticism would have to be the soundtrack. I personally enjoy it, but in this instance, nostalgia is definitely helping prop it up. It's playful and fun, but fairly repetitive... and the fact it's MIDI is undoubtedly a disappointment. The obnoxiously heavy-handed copyright enforcement is also a bummer. That said, I do think some people are overblowing the music issue a bit... it's not ear-bleedingly bad. The default audio balance has the music too loud relative to sounds and voices though, which might be why some people are finding it so grating. I think turning music volume down to 6 is the sweet spot.

    To sum up: Fantastic game... One of the best JRPGs of the last decade, if not all time. Give it a chance.    … Expand
  59. Killer_Cort
    Sep 8, 2018
    10
    I really have to give this game a perfect score. It's absolutely gorgeous, has great voice acting, and is paced perfectly. I really love the art style of kind of cell shaded mixed with conventional textures. It really looks phenomenal blended together. I personally think this is the best looking JRPG made in a long time.

    I'm so sick of RPGs branching out too much before you even get    I really have to give this game a perfect score. It's absolutely gorgeous, has great voice acting, and is paced perfectly. I really love the art style of kind of cell shaded mixed with conventional textures. It really looks phenomenal blended together. I personally think this is the best looking JRPG made in a long time.

    I'm so sick of RPGs branching out too much before you even get started, but this game does a great job at keeping you focused while still giving you a lot of meat to chew on. The turn based combat is quick when it needs to be and complex enough for boss battles.

    If there are any faults to Dragon Quest XI, they are greatly outweighed by its charms to the point of being forgivable.    … Expand
  60. NECKX
    Sep 9, 2018
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game is amazing. The orchestral soundtrack is perfect integrated in everything what is happening. I also really enjoy the old battle system. Not every game needs to be a button smashing arpg.
    The story is well written and really huge l, atm I am at 52 hours and I am not close to the end yet. I also enjoy the evolution of the characters during the story, you learn more and more sides of everyone and no one is flat or a generic type. They have all their own unique character and is not filled with stereotypes.
    The ppl who complain about that the main character is not talking, don't get that they are the protagonist of the game and that they are doing the talking. There was a time in gaming history where it was normal to use your own fantasy instead of just consume everything.
    It is sad that this game gets so downrated just because it is a perfect traditional jrpg. I really wonder why ppl buy this game if they don't like the design. It is not that you can't inform yourself about a game and it's battle system. If you don't like it, just don't buy it.    … Expand
  61. Kevho
    Sep 10, 2018
    10
    Dragon Quest XI is the best game i have played in my life and i have played a lot of RPGs that still can not compete with this one. The presentation and the animations could be straight out of an high quality anime movie with good directing, the gameplay is immensely fun with not a single thing that is distracting you (The fact that crafting is a mini game itself is fantastic and it hasDragon Quest XI is the best game i have played in my life and i have played a lot of RPGs that still can not compete with this one. The presentation and the animations could be straight out of an high quality anime movie with good directing, the gameplay is immensely fun with not a single thing that is distracting you (The fact that crafting is a mini game itself is fantastic and it has the best casino out of all Dragon Quest titles) and the main cast of characters are really well written with changed or new aspects of the stereotypes that they are. For instance the "cool guy" is a well thought person but he is not overly smart that it defines his whole character, he is just human.… Expand
  62. LeoChross
    Sep 12, 2018
    10
    Wow! This is love when it's the biggest! Square Enix flagship. Among the absolute best game I've experienced. So glad that it finally came to Sweden. I'm now dreaming about part 12 as a premiere title for PS5. :)
  63. Fibrizzo87
    Sep 15, 2018
    10
    This is what I’ve been waiting for. A classic-style turn-based JRPG fully optimized for the modern day. Beautiful: art-style, characters, music, cut scenes, UI, pacing, combat, and story. Vast towns and dungeons to explore. I feel like DQXI might be the best turn-based JRPG made in the last 15 years.

    .
  64. elitegeek79
    Mar 7, 2019
    10
    Delightful! Captures the essence of the series with the new art direction seen in the heroes series and some nice new touches such as using enemies as vehicles. So many charming locations and people/monsters. A lot of fun with plenty of quests and mini games. A must play for any fan of the series or JRPG lovers.
  65. Das_reaper666
    Sep 23, 2018
    10
    I am loving this game brilliant story. Got me back into JRPGs again best one since persona 5. I would recommend this hands down
  66. BlaineMcPaine
    Oct 3, 2018
    10
    Easily one of the best JRPGs released since the PS1/PS2 era. It takes everything great about the genre, and turns it up to 11 (pun intended!). The huge world is absolutely gorgeous and richly detailed, populated by outstandingly modelled and animated enemies. I couldn't recommend this game enough to anyone who is a fan of Final Fantasy 7-10, or loved DQ8. It's simply taken the best partsEasily one of the best JRPGs released since the PS1/PS2 era. It takes everything great about the genre, and turns it up to 11 (pun intended!). The huge world is absolutely gorgeous and richly detailed, populated by outstandingly modelled and animated enemies. I couldn't recommend this game enough to anyone who is a fan of Final Fantasy 7-10, or loved DQ8. It's simply taken the best parts of the storytelling, world building, combat, progression and exploration to the next level. It took me 60 hours just to do the main story, and now there's still heaps of post-game content to complete which I'm really looking forward to.

    There's only a few downsides, mainly the slow start (It takes 5-10 hours to really get going - but never stops being amazing afterwards) and the music. I like the music quite a lot, but it's clear they didn't have a huge amount of them. I've heard the same songs constantly for the 60 hours I've played so far, and they're quite repetitive. it doesn't bother me much, but I can understand how some people can absolutely despise it. Also, if you're playing on PS4 Pro, while it looks nice, it can turn into a blurry mess when you turn the camera due to the checkerboard rendering not working well. It's absolutely playable and a great experience on PS4/Pro (constant 30, quick load times) but if you can, I recommend buying it on PC. I know that's how I'll be playing it next time!    … Expand
  67. Maarten95
    Apr 14, 2019
    10
    I haven't played an turnbased RPG this good since persona 5. The story aldo not very original, is very likeable. I did wish they showed the bad guy a bit more because most of the game you only see his lackeys. The combat has been fleshed out with new weapons, mechanics and skills. The graphics are amazing and so is the artstyle. If only the soundtrack was this good. This is the only badI haven't played an turnbased RPG this good since persona 5. The story aldo not very original, is very likeable. I did wish they showed the bad guy a bit more because most of the game you only see his lackeys. The combat has been fleshed out with new weapons, mechanics and skills. The graphics are amazing and so is the artstyle. If only the soundtrack was this good. This is the only bad thing I can say about the game. It felt like an stepdown from Octopath traveler who used orchastrated music. Overal this is one of the best turnbased RPG's I have ever played!… Expand
  68. w0odyallen
    Oct 8, 2018
    10
    My first dragon quest experience and one that had turned me into a lifelong fan. Easily the best JRPG I've played. In my opinion this is better than any final fantasy.
  69. dangnamkhanh
    Aug 5, 2019
    10
    Given 10 point maybe a bit overreact, but overall, it's great. Graphic is certainly the most improvement, it gave everything both familiar and stranger to me. The story was rich and gave me all kinds of emotions. Even though gameplay was not much changed, but it's necessary to keep the classic style of the game
  70. ELGuztavos
    Oct 26, 2018
    10
    Best jrpg for the ps4. Graphics are gorgeous and the gameplay is so fun and addictive. A must buy for all jrpg fans
  71. Linx_13
    Nov 7, 2018
    10
    Dragon Quest XI is the perfect way to get into the popular Japanese series. Amazing presentation, likable characters, engaging story and fun, classic gameplay. Be prepared for over 100 hours of content. Certainly the best JRPG of this gen and one of the best of all time.
  72. Sick7
    Nov 25, 2018
    10
    Great game, i loved it sooo much ! This is how i love a JRPG turn-based game. Worth all the money i invested in.
  73. UnsightlyWhale
    Nov 25, 2018
    10
    Best JRPG I have played in a long time. You just don't see turn-based combat done well anymore. Glad I bought this well worth it. I have spent a few hundred hours on it and there is still more to do.
  74. BryanModerate
    Jan 3, 2019
    10
    As a classic RPG gamer I found DQ11 refreshing. Brought me back to days of Ultima on C64, Original Dragon Warrior on NES and Phantasy Star on Genisis.
  75. bassie0317
    Jan 7, 2019
    10
    Easely one of the best j-rpg's in years, the game looks stunning and the world is made brilliantly.
    The old-school turn based combat system combined with a great story make this game a must have for all jrpg lovers.
  76. xGabriel
    Apr 7, 2020
    10
    Great story, excelent gameplay.. This is a truly jrpg. Sublime from the start to the end. Great job.
  77. KusoGaki
    Mar 1, 2019
    10
    I really love the Dragon Quest franchise. And this is game is one of the reasons why I love Dragon Quest. But I think the story really need to be more engaged just like the V.
  78. PedroHF
    Mar 8, 2019
    10
    Best JRPG on the PS4 and one of the best games I have played, I love the characters and the game!
  79. Garlands
    Sep 1, 2020
    10
    Un excellent jrpg qui vous occupera pendant des dizaines d'heures un must have si on aime les jrpg !!
  80. Juanxo19
    May 30, 2019
    10
    Hacía años que no jugaba un juego tan completo e inmersivo, es imposible dejar de jugar.
  81. HeirOfErdrick
    Sep 30, 2019
    10
    It is an awesome simple but well done masterpiece of a rpg its characters,world,and story are all great it has so many details
  82. mattlarrubia
    Jun 16, 2019
    10
    Dragon Quest XI is one of the best video games I have ever played. I would rank it somewhere slightly beneath Castlevania Symphony of the Night in terms of its greatness.
  83. Kimoyu
    Apr 8, 2020
    10
    The game is fun, i like this game.............................................
  84. SomaKurusu
    Nov 15, 2019
    10
    Uno de los mjores juegos de la generación. Gráficamente es una bendición para los que siempre hemos querido ver los dieños de Toriyama a lo grande. Su diseño artístico es precioso. Su banda sonora es brutal, y su historia e sla más compleja y mejor trabajada de la saga. Jugablemente mantiene su estilo cásico por turnos de toda la vida, con agregados que le sientan muy bien como el árbol deUno de los mjores juegos de la generación. Gráficamente es una bendición para los que siempre hemos querido ver los dieños de Toriyama a lo grande. Su diseño artístico es precioso. Su banda sonora es brutal, y su historia e sla más compleja y mejor trabajada de la saga. Jugablemente mantiene su estilo cásico por turnos de toda la vida, con agregados que le sientan muy bien como el árbol de habilidades. Dragon Quest XI demuestra uqe aunque los tiempos están cambiando, aún existe un espacio paro los que gustan del JRPG verdadero.… Expand
  85. ProGameReview
    Sep 18, 2019
    10
    Dragon Quest 11 is a blast of fun and excitement from beginning to it's very distant end. While some might say it loses quality as it proceeds, during my playthrough I had nothing but fun. If you are familiar with traditional jrpgs this is a game for you, if you're not though, this game is a great to startgreateplace to start
  86. Azziz
    Sep 10, 2020
    10
    This game is one of the best games I have ever played. I am in love with JRPG thanks to DQ 11.
  87. Zandrokaki
    Jan 23, 2020
    10
    My first Dragon Quest game. I just finished the game and, for me, is one of the best JRPG with Persona 5. Congratulations Squareenix and thanks to bring us a masterpiece like that.
  88. Walt17
    Jan 30, 2020
    10
    Siete orfani da final fantasy x? Volete un gioco che si avvicini a quel Mood? Compratelo e basta
  89. WinterOf86
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    If you’re not a fan of JRPG’s don’t play it. If you already are a fan it’s an amazing representation of the genre.
  90. LuisT
    Feb 8, 2020
    10
    This game is amazing. I love everything about it. Great characters and story though I have to say switch version is the best.
  91. UserReviewsLUL
    Feb 15, 2020
    10
    I love the atmosphere and the chance to go into old times like that. all the adventures. The decisions you can chose. The temple missions. The game is just outstanding. id give it a 20 if it were possible.
  92. kefka2589
    May 29, 2020
    10
    There was a time when I would've told you FF and DQ were equals. That is not the case anymore. Thanks for keeping it real DQ.
  93. rjpardor90
    Jun 18, 2020
    10
    Just loved it. Such a beautiful game with amazing characters and a non-stop history.
  94. yamchaf
    Jun 19, 2020
    10
    Possible mine favourite RPG . One of the best games i ever played. Now looking forward DQ XII
  95. Xarman
    Jun 22, 2020
    10
    Just good
    The story is very good the music is beautiful worthy of Square Enix
  96. Mjnhminh
    Jul 8, 2020
    10
    Perfect game ! Everything is the best. Music, animation, charactor building, story
  97. Ruah
    Jul 19, 2020
    10
    La edición de Switch es lo más completo que he visto en una edición de un juego multiplataforma. Va muy bien tanto en modo tv como portátil, el poder jugar en 2d tbn ayuda a la nostalgia y el clásico combate por turnos q Nomura se cargo en final fantasy le queda genial
  98. jeremymclin
    Aug 2, 2020
    10
    Nowadays, while RPG now shifting toward action based, this game redefines and states that turn-based RPG can still be brilliant! What a masterpiece!
  99. Bader899
    Aug 8, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It’s my first dq game and im love it the story is deep and amazing the characters are funny and reliable… Expand
  100. dogshea
    Aug 24, 2020
    10
    DQ XI is the most beautiful JRPG so far. The only bad thing is the hair style of the main character.
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Awards & Rankings

18
#18 Best PS4 Game of 2018
19
#19 Most Discussed PS4 Game of 2018
29
#29 Most Shared PS4 Game of 2018

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
86

Generally favorable reviews - based on 86 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 80 out of 86
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 86
  3. Negative: 0 out of 86
  1. PLAY! Zine
    Mar 11, 2019
    85
    Might not be the greatest game of all time, but it probably is the best game in the most quality maintaining JRPG series of all time. Is that even better? Could be! Do not miss this gorgeous yet pretty nostalgic game set in a well known universe of the Dragon Quest franchise.
    Read full review
  2. CD-Action
    Jan 9, 2019
    85
    Dragon Quest XI clings to tradition, but when you buy a DQ game, you don’t expect a revolution. You expect vibrant characters and thrilling adventures and that’s exactly what you get, amplified by the level of execution unparalleled not only in the series, but in the whole genre. [11/2018, p.66]
  3. GameGrin
    Jan 2, 2019
    100
    Dragon Quest XI: Echoes Of An Elusive Age is a perfect game, it sticks to with traditional JRPG roots while still bringing in a few new mechanics to freshen it up a bit.
    Read full review
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