Metascore
83

Generally favorable reviews - based on 64 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 58 out of 64
  2. Negative: 0 out of 64
  1. Feb 16, 2026
    100
    Beautifully realized and smartly updated, Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is the best way to experience the iconic series for the first time.
  2. Feb 2, 2026
    100
    Gorgeous visuals, exciting combat, simply stunning in its execution. Dragon Quest VII Reimagined should be the template that all other remakes look to going forward.
  3. Feb 2, 2026
    100
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is something special, and one of Square Enix’s boldest remakes. It acknowledges the game’s classic roots while embracing modern game design through nearly every system. It is visually stunning, emotionally resonant, mechanically deep, and overflowing with charm. More importantly, it captures the joy of discovery that made classic JRPGs magical in the first place. Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is a masterpiece that deserves to be in the hands of every RPG fan out there, and I hope that it is the foundation on which Square Enix builds future remakes.
  4. Feb 2, 2026
    95
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is a remake crafted with an immense amount of love and care. Visually, it's majestic and full of charm, the voice acting is superb, the pacing has been polished to be more fluid without sacrificing important narrative points, and the combat is amazing. We hadn't had this much fun grinding in a JRPG for a long time, and we believe that with Reimagined, Dragon Quest VII will no longer be seen as one of the black sheep of the franchise; on the contrary, it will be considered one of the best in the series.
  5. Feb 2, 2026
    95
    Dragon Quest VII: Reimagined is the definitive version that no one expected but that we really needed. It's more fun than ever, with an extensive storyline full of memorable moments, a polished and addictive combat system, lots to discover, and all without forgetting the magic of its music and artwork that is both classic and modern at the same time. Everything about this game is charming, nostalgic, and lovingly crafted.
  6. Feb 2, 2026
    95
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is an incredible remake of a game that, despite criticism, always deserved more attention. From the excellent gameplay with the series' traditional DNA to the stupendous narrative, it's a must-play for fans of the genre.
  7. Feb 2, 2026
    95
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is true to the spirit of the original while sporting the best look and combat in the series.
  8. Mar 6, 2026
    90
    It’s not perfect, and in a perfect world, we’d still have things like Haven, Monster Meadows, and the Casino. But Dragon Quest VII Reimagined receives high marks for being incredibly accessible and stunning to boot. The new combat system, quality-of-life features, and accessibility go a long way. I had a blast playing Dragon Quest VII Reimagined.
  9. Feb 27, 2026
    90
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is an exemplary remake that respects the essence of the original while modernizing its systems for new audiences. Its narrative, non-linear exploration, and combat adjustments make it a more accessible experience without sacrificing depth. Square Enix has found a new path to revitalize JRPG classics, delivering a solid game for both veterans and newcomers.
  10. 90
    Another swing and a hit from Square Enix and the Dragon Quest franchise. Dragon Quest VII: Reimagined streamlines the entire experience and provides plenty of quality-of-life updates that I wish every studio would implement into their games. The visuals and sound design are once again in the higher echelon, and game's combat is still just as enjoyable as Dragon Quest combat always is.
  11. Feb 3, 2026
    90
    Overall, Dragon Quest VII: Reimagined is a fantastic remake that hits all the right marks. I don't necessarily agree with all of the changes made, but they work with what the game is going for. It's an engaging, fun, and well-made Dragon Quest game that is among the best of the franchise. There's no better way to play than Reimagined, especially if you are interested in Dragon Quest VII but felt intimidated by the time commitment. Even longtime fans of the series will find new surprises and new experiences to enjoy.
  12. Feb 2, 2026
    90
    By rebuilding and streamlining the classic adventure, Reimagined stands as one of the series’ strongest entries.
  13. Feb 2, 2026
    90
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined successfully revisits a classic with great effectiveness. The episodic structure, engaging dramas, and the sense of adventure and discovery remain intact, while the more user-friendly interface and the changes to combat make the journey more inviting. Although certain decisions, such as the automatic revival of fallen allies, dilute some of the traditional tension and challenge of the franchise, the final result is a modern and accessible version of one of the most ambitious adventures in the series.
  14. Feb 2, 2026
    90
    A remake that reshapes the original without losing it’s essence, a balance that Dragon Quest VII Reimagined managed to achieve that deserves the title of being a modern classic masterpiece
  15. Feb 2, 2026
    90
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined delivers a masterful modernization of a JRPG classic, boasting a superb graphical overhaul and improved pacing without sacrificing its iconic segmented narrative and deep job system. Its excellent localization and quality-of-life enhancements elevate the experience, although the musical variety feels somewhat limited, and certain fetch quests momentarily drag.
  16. Feb 2, 2026
    90
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is a great experience. HexaDrive has delivered a remake that all fans of the genre and the series can enjoy. Some changes make the experience more enjoyable, with better pacing and a more direct structure. However, it's also true that some of these decisions remove some identity from the original Dragon Quest VII. Interestingly, those entering this world for the first time might not even notice.
  17. Feb 2, 2026
    90
    From its art style to its streamlined mechanics, Dragon Quest VII Reimagined takes a classic and makes it feel fresh. A cast of engaging characters, sparkling voice work, and combat that can be tailor-made, Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is a substantial game that almost never wastes your time. Ardent fans of the original might be skeptical, but it’s hard to imagine fans of classic JRPGs not enjoying this thoroughly engaging journey.
  18. Feb 2, 2026
    90
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is a very, very impressive remake. 26 years after its original release, this modernised edition of the game is everything I want from an RPG, and I can imagine it landing very well with people who grew up partying with Kiefer and Maribel. It’s held back from a perfect score by only the smallest of gripes around pacing.
  19. Feb 2, 2026
    90
    DRAGON QUEST VII Reimagined uses modern visual and gameplay improvements to breathe new life into a classic game. It is a prime example of how to approach a remake, and there is so much to enjoy for both new and old Dragon Quest players.
  20. 90
    Dragon Quest 7 Reimagined delivers an exceptional game, one which excels in its storytelling and personable cast. While it wasn't my favourite game in the series before the remake, it has quickly jumped into the top three. There are so many small details that make this version the one you have to play, from the reworked script and revised score to the incredible cast guiding us across a world's fragmented past. By piecing together the threat of this world one island at a time, you learn more about the inhabitants and how each contrast to the others meaningfully. Combine that with a shift from round-based battles to turn-based, and the control you're given to make the right choices warrants the profound changes this game has undergone.
  21. Feb 2, 2026
    90
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined transforms the franchise's most infamous classic entry into a title much closer to what genre fans want. It sheds the filler content and trades a plodding pace for a more dynamic flow. On the gameplay front, it introduces modern mechanics that make the experience more accessible. Technically, it is a beautiful title, and its soundtrack remains sublime.
  22. Feb 2, 2026
    90
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is a shining example of why this iconic series endures. Its development team understands that you don’t need overly complex progression or to reinvent the wheel in the storytelling department, and the result is one of the purest, most endearing JRPGs I’ve played in recent memory that both fans of the original and newcomers will enjoy in equal measures.
  23. Feb 2, 2026
    88
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined seems to combine the best elements of the earlier versions in many ways. The overall playtime may have been trimmed down a bit and some minor bits of content have been removed here and there, but it’s all been done in service of the story, resulting in a much smoother and more enjoyable experience.
  24. Feb 2, 2026
    86
    The graphical upgrade and streamlined gameplay of DRAGON QUEST VII Reimagined provide a breath of fresh air that do a great job of making this classic RPG appeal to both new and familiar audiences.
  25. Feb 2, 2026
    85
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is, ultimately, a remake that achieves almost all of its goals: it streamlines a historically challenging experience, enhances the battle system with intelligent additions, and gives Toriyama's world a visual makeover that amplifies its charm without betraying its essence. Some remnants of the past remain – excessive verbosity, certain avoidable lulls, and a few missed narrative opportunities – but these flaws don't detract from the core of the work. Reimagined doesn't push the boundaries completely, it's true, but it consciously chooses not to in order to preserve the cozy and reassuring balance that defines Dragon Quest. And in the end, after dozens of hours spent exploring islands, different eras, and rewritten destinies, it's difficult not to acknowledge its fundamental merit: having done justice to a chapter often remembered more for its sheer size than for its value. Here, finally, Dragon Quest VII can be played, appreciated, and loved for what it has always been.
  26. Feb 2, 2026
    85
    With Reimagined, forget the laborious epic of the original Dragon Quest VII on PS1. More beautiful than ever with its unique aesthetic, the game offers a much more enjoyable, condensed adventure thanks to its numerous accessibility and difficulty options. In this customizable experience, combat gains depth through the richness of dual vocations, allowing for combinations that are as improbable as they are powerful. However, in addition to some flaws from the original game that are still present, this modernized version sometimes pushes the accessibility features too far, making the adventure too easy at times. But make no mistake: Dragon Quest VII Reimagined elevates a great RPG to new heights and will be a landmark title in the category of ambitious remakes.
  27. Feb 2, 2026
    85
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is the best version of this classic JRPG by Square Enix. It looks truly amazing and has a better pace than the 3DS remake, included its new changes within the adventure.
  28. Feb 2, 2026
    85
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined introduces new systems and quality-of-life improvements that streamline the original experience and make it more palatable for modern audiences. The game still takes its sweet time to show its cards, though. JRPGs are a genre that demands patience and Dragon Quest VII Reimagined asks for a tad more. Still, if you can embrace the episodic storytelling format and make the most of the Party Chat and Vocation system, you'll find that your journey through time was well worth it.
  29. Feb 2, 2026
    85
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined rectifies one of the slower entries into the long-running series with a next-gen coat of paint and pacing to match the sensibilities of contemporary JRPG enthusiasts.
  30. Feb 2, 2026
    85
    Another home run for the series, fans of old-school JRPGs will absolutely love Dragon Quest VII Reimagined.
  31. Feb 2, 2026
    85
    A successfully pimped up classic with a speed boost that may appear a little too modern for retro fans and a little too old-fashioned for contemporary players. Nevertheless, the short story structure, fantastic soundtrack, and meaningful gameplay innovations are sure to impress.
  32. Feb 2, 2026
    83
    Dragon Quest 7 stands out for its calm, humane storytelling, and the remake makes this classic traditional JRPG the best way for genre fans to experience it today.
  33. 82
    A more compact and aesthetically pleasing Dragon Quest VII. The redundant narrative elements of the original have been appropriately trimmed, and although the plot remains quite conventional and in some instances rather "cheesy," the protagonists remain among the best in the series. The additions made to character progression and customization are effective, as are those to the combat system, which, while remaining very classic, is now faster and more immediate. The ability to adjust the difficulty at will is excellent, but the game still needs some post-launch balancing adjustments.
  34. Feb 2, 2026
    82
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined represents a notable restoration effort: it significantly improves the narrative cohesion of the original title, refines its mechanics to streamline the game’s pacing, and preserves the elements that made it one of the most beloved entries in the saga. It may not be the best Dragon Quest, but it is certainly one of the most special, turning this remake into a solid standard-bearer of retroactive nostalgia within the JRPG genre.
  35. Feb 2, 2026
    82
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is probably the boldest of the three remakes released by Square Enix over the past couple of years: not only because the original title had already received an excellent remaster on 3DS, but also because the changes introduced here are less trivial and arguably more targeted than those the Erdrick trilogy actually required.
  36. Mar 9, 2026
    80
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is a massive and charming JRPG with a heartfelt story, classic turn-based gameplay and polished visuals and music. While some pacing and repetition issues remain, it’s a rewarding adventure for both longtime fans and newcomers.
  37. Mar 6, 2026
    80
    The reimagined version offers a brand-new experience by providing a fresh, more modern perspective on the classic DQ7 rather than trying to replace it, and it positions itself among the series’ successful entries. I just wish the overly easy difficulty had been tuned a bit higher and the missing content had been included as well.
  38. Mar 2, 2026
    80
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined captivates with its graphics, beautiful story, and charismatic characters. While maintaining its classic essence, it changes some elements to provide an experience in line with the times.
  39. Feb 23, 2026
    80
    A lot has changed under the beautiful hood, and the threshold has been significantly lowered. The original was an epic that you could easily spend a hundred hours on, but where you spent a large part of that time grinding: defeating the same enemies over and over again to slowly become stronger. That has been greatly reduced. Now you can defeat weak monsters with a single push of a button. Sacrilege? Perhaps, but the result is a streamlined game that respects your time and has a much faster pace.
  40. Feb 20, 2026
    80
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is a modernized 100-hour old-school JRPG classic that successfully tames the most problematic entry in the series and transforms it into an ideal starting point for newcomers - without losing its essence.
  41. Feb 17, 2026
    80
    Dragon Quest 7 Reimagined aims to fix issues with the original by adapting it to the modern era. The result is an extremely accessible JRPG with immense aesthetic charm and a storyline that is a pleasure to follow.
  42. 80
    It hardly shows its age: Square Enix's Dragon Quest 7 Reimagined offers charming JRPG fun in bite-sized portions. Perfect for exploring the genre without having to completely immerse yourself in it.
  43. Feb 2, 2026
    80
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined breathes new life into a historic title, even if the original product wasn’t exactly unmissable. The operation carried out by Square Enix is truly solid and showcases the Japanese company’s expertise, which by now has become more than well-established in this field. The three-dimensional graphics blend perfectly with the isometric perspective and the design of the original game, where Akira Toriyama’s artwork never disappoints. While the technical execution is impeccable, the fact remains that Dragon Quest VII Reimagined carries over the structural limitations of a gameplay formula that now feels outdated. The new features introduced to streamline it, though welcome, don’t quite perform the miracle of making it feel modern. The story is enjoyable to follow (despite additions and cuts), the cast is somewhat limited but sufficiently characterized, and the music is of high quality, as is the Italian text localization. There are certainly other Square Enix titles waiting to be brought back, but Dragon Quest VII Reimagined still manages to be appreciated—especially by those who don’t mind extremely traditional gameplay.
  44. Feb 2, 2026
    80
    Dragon Quest 7 Reimagined is not a hardcore RPG, it’s more like a vacation. A well needed remake for the original.
  45. Feb 2, 2026
    80
    Dragon Quest VII: Reimagined is a much tighter experience compared to the original, even though it over-corrects in some places.
  46. Feb 2, 2026
    80
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined has been basically remade from scratch and yet it's absolutely faithful in intent and purpose to the iconic original JRPG. It's a valuable revision, especially given the various tweaks, additions, and improvements, but Dragon Quest VII remains by its very nature a fundamentally anachronistic title, entrenched in a specific way of telling stories and playing them. In the end, it's simply Dragon Quest, that's how it is, and otherwise it would be a different series. This Reimagined edition understands this and delivers it in a more contemporary condition, limited only by its conservative spirit.
  47. Feb 2, 2026
    80
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is still as grand an adventure as it was 25 years ago, mostly. The 'Reimagined' moniker bleeds down to the refined art style, remixed combat mechanics, and streamlined main quest. All of these, plus ample amounts of Quality of Life updates, make for a fun and modern experience that stands tall even next to recent installments. However, all of the bells and whistles look a lot less shiny when you realize that they came at a cost, with content being cut. Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is an excellent remake that's held back from being truly great by rejecting its past and shedding its "flaws".
  48. Feb 2, 2026
    80
    Dragon Quest VII: Reimagined is a strong remake and one that does a lot to improve upon its predecessor. An RPG that revels in nostalgia and the warmness you feel after a night out with friends, even if it's that one friend who doesn't realize last call at the bar was hours ago.
  49. Feb 2, 2026
    80
    If you've never played DQ7, then by all means check this remake out. It's an epic RPG that still has my favorite job system of any game ever. But if you're like me, and you've experienced the other versions of DQ7 before, you may be disappointed by how familiar you find Dragon Quest 7 Reimagined. For me, it was like visiting old friends I hadn't seen in a while, which ultimately outweighed its flaws.
  50. Feb 2, 2026
    80
    Dragon Quest 7 Reimagined is a very high quality remake and a potent reminder of just how endlessly charming the longstanding series can be. While the story does still drag its feet at times, sweeping gameplay improvements and some welcome streamlining make Reimagined a must for anyone with a hankering for old school JRPGs.
  51. Feb 2, 2026
    80
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined offers a bold reinterpretation of the classic JRPG, blending nostalgic structure with modern design tweaks. The revamped pacing, deep Vocation system, and charming diorama-style visuals bring new life to a lengthy adventure, though the experience may feel diluted for longtime fans. While some structural gripes persist, newcomers will find an accessible and feature-rich entry point into one of the series' most divisive chapters. Then again, the added conveniences, combat features, and other new incorporations still make this a satisfactory, and admittedly by-the-books, classic JRPG through and through. I suppose that, if there's one facet to be constant, it's that Dragon Quest VII will remain at least semi-controversial, no matter what version is played.
  52. Feb 2, 2026
    80
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is about new beginnings and, speaking as a relative beginner to the franchise, it is a great adventure. The artwork and character designs are just a treat, and it’s always worth getting to the next island just to see what big bad resides there. The combat system is snappy, making it a fun way to fight to the next heartfelt story beat that runs the whole gamut of emotions. Dragon Quest VII: Reimagined is an eye-catching and enjoyable appeal to wide audiences, and serves as a great example for the franchise.
  53. Feb 2, 2026
    80
    Dragon Quest VII makes a triumphant return as a charming JRPG with improved pacing and a stronger episodic structure, even if not every story arc hits the mark. Refreshed combat and visuals stay true to the beloved original, though clunky menus can test your patience in an otherwise delightful adventure.
  54. Feb 25, 2026
    75
    Reimagined is overall a good game. However, it certainly doesn’t feel like a game created for those who grew up with Dragon Quest. This is because we’ve grown, and Dragon Quest 7’s gameplay is still, in its own way, very much stuck in the past. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, as now, this is a game I would love my kids to play, so they can fall in love with Dragon Quest and JRPGs in general.
  55. Feb 2, 2026
    75
    Despite its bloated content and drawn-out storyline, Dragon Quest VII Reimagined wins over players with its charming visuals and quality-of-life improvements that make its gameplay very satisfying. The ability to change parameters such as experience gain and damage also allows veterans and beginners alike to find their own way to have fun.
  56. Feb 2, 2026
    75
    A guided experience from beginning to end, Dragon Quest VII Reimagined does away with any sense of exploration and challenge by holding the player's hand whether they want the guidance or not. What could be the most beautiful rendition of the greatest entry in the Dragon Quest series is instead Reimagined to be the beginner's first JRPG.
  57. Feb 2, 2026
    75
    Dragon Quest 7 Reimagined is the most unusual remake I've ever played. In addition to beautiful modern graphics and all kinds of quality of life improvements, this JRPG features an unusual story, surprisingly shallow combat, and less content than the PS1 original. Before you buy it, you should know exactly what you're getting into with this new edition.
  58. Feb 2, 2026
    75
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined has just as much heart as its previous iterations, but is now also much more welcoming and modernized. The presentation is endearing, and the new gameplay mechanics, as well as the plethora of modifiers, will help new players navigate uncharted territory. Even if the challenge isn’t always there, those who’ve set sail on this adventure before will find plenty to love in this latest expedition.
  59. Feb 6, 2026
    72
    Square Enix certainly wanted to create a defining title for the franchise, as the streamlined narrative and gameplay additions make it easy for anyone to get into. However, the price of convenience is a little too steep; cut islands, hand-holdy exploration, and a lack of challenge make this reimagining a diminished experience compared to its older versions.
  60. Feb 25, 2026
    70
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined reconstructs the original’s sprawling narrative with a far brisker, more accessible pace. That approach may well represent the optimal solution for guiding modern players through such an enormous adventure, yet it comes at a cost. In streamlining the experience, the game sacrifices some of the strategic depth expected of an RPG, as well as the literary weight of the original’s meditation on the limits of salvation. It is charming and eminently approachable, but the sharp edges that once lingered in the heart have been smoothed away—resulting in a remake that feels exemplary, yet somewhat too well-behaved for its own good.
  61. 70
    A loving remake of a JRPG classic, with pitch perfect graphics and charming, if simplistic, storytelling and combat.
  62. Feb 2, 2026
    70
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined delivers a better-paced version of this 26-year-old classic while retaining its signature charm, but it also goes too far with some of its changes, sanding down the experience for newer players at the expense of the challenge and discovery I expect from the series.
  63. Feb 2, 2026
    70
    Overall, Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is a stunning rebuild of a classic PlayStation role-playing game. The stop-start aspect of the short story structure is still there, but definitely improved. However, despite its technical brilliance, it feels a little soulless at times and doesn’t hit you the way most Dragon Quest games do. So I can only really recommend this to die-hard fans of the original game, who will no doubt love it.
  64. Feb 2, 2026
    60
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined attempts to modernize one of the franchise’s most popular entries by revamping its visuals, refining its systems, and preserving the essence of the original, but ultimately runs into serious pacing and structural issues. The initial journey presents an interesting premise, with time travel to the past to restore islands and resolve conflicts, yet the game repeats this formula for dozens of hours, with little real progression of the main story and almost nonexistent development of both the characters and the villain.
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  1. Feb 3, 2026
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is a wonderful remake of Dragon Quest VII 2000, but as I said earlier, all Dragon Quest VII can be is itself with its small islands, portals, and a lot of walking back and forth to fix specific problems like appeasing an active volcano or helping a kingdom fight against rampaging robots. I’d more easily recommend Dragon Quest XI, which is a great entry point for anyone curious about 3D Dragon Quest. And of course, there’s the trio of HD-2D games that lay out the origin of everything Dragon Quest is about. There’s nothing wrong with choosing Dragon Quest VII Reimagined as your first Dragon Quest, but remember what I said before? We Dragon Quest fans are spoiled for choice now. And with that last thought, celebrate and revel in our good fortune.
  2. Feb 2, 2026
    With an infectious enthusiasm, the game beckons a new generation of players to find their inner hero, to save the world through the eyes of those who long for adventure and aspire to make their own destiny. For newcomers, it's a great introduction to the series’ classic game mechanics and defining style shepherded by creators Yuji Horii and Akira Toriyama. It’s a reimagining that’s worth using as a template for more games in the Dragon Quest series (and others) that need this loving treatment too.
  3. Feb 2, 2026
    It’s the combination of visual refresh, streamlined quality-of-life features, and less-intimidating structure that makes Reimagined such a good entry point.