*Please note that this is not a full review of Dragon Quest XI, rather a review of the definitive package on the Switch 2, its offerings and its performance.
Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age is one of the most well reviewed JRPGs of all time, releasing nearly a decade ago on the previous console generation. I played the game on PS4 near its worldwide release and mostly recall the graphics being a delight, designed by the great Toriyama. While in the 8 or so years that have passed we have seen turn-based JRPGs enhance their depth (Like a Dragon), change up their style (HD-2D presentation) and even lean towards more action-orientated systems (Final Fantasy), there remains a charm about the package of Dragon Quest XI S which has now been enhanced on the Switch 2. The definitive edition on the Switch 2 arrives with greater graphical output, with a quality mode (30 FPS at 1440p) and performance (60FPS at 1080p) in both docked and handheld realising the true potential of the game’s design.
While this addition to the prior package may seem minimal in moving from Switch 1 to 2, don’t forget that the definitive edition is already bursting at the seams with a 2D pixel-art option, orchestral music that can be switched on and off, new story content, quality of life updates, battle speeds and expanded options. This was present on the Switch 1, though the graphics needed a boost to enjoy all the trimmings. I have not beaten the game in this new format – I believe my playthrough in 2017-18 was nearer 100 hours than How Long to Beat’s 57 hours – but I’ve played enough of this latest edition to test the performance and analyse whether this game remains a gem in the series today.
For those that haven’t played Dragon Quest 11, it may just be the best release in a series that spans 40 years as of 2026. The story is trope-heavy – the lead, the Luminary (chosen one) discovers his powers during a hike with an old friend and learns of his destiny. Living in the quaint town of Cobblestone, you are sent off to see the king to reveal your identity…though the reception is not as expected. What follows is a grand quest full of unique party members, min/maxing, sprawling exploration, mini-games and well-designed creatures. It is a balance between fantastical storybooks, anime and high influence from the many other games in the series (Easter eggs galore).
This game simply looks stunning. The recent Dragon Quest VII Reimagined went with a diorama style presentation, but the Dragon Ball style suits the series so much more. Exploring each location is a joy as all is handcrafted and popping with colour. Riding the horse in 60FPS through the large biomes is how the game should be experienced. Being able to do so in handheld mode is the huge tick, as I played most of the time in that format as it works so well as a ‘one hour before bed each night’ game. As battles are turn-based, frames in combat are not as important as would be the case in a more action-orientated game. Therefore, I did try the quality mode and noticed the detail enhancement – though whenever possible, I must choose 60 as the smooth movement is easy on the eyes. From a performance viewpoint and the options now available on the Switch 2, I believe this is the best way to play the game due to the graphical enhancements and handheld boost.
With the specs approved, now we move onto the game itself and whether it stands out today to sap 100 hours of your precious gaming time. In short, I would say yes only if you enjoy old school JRPGs. I say the words ‘old school’ as there is not too much happening once diving into a battle. You’ll select your attack, item or magic skill. You’ll hit the foe. If they don’t die, they’ll hit you. There’s a party to manage, though no job roles outside of the way you build the characters and set their skill trees. You can move around the small circular field, though it’s not as involved as Infinite Wealth’s positioning. Dragon Quest has always focused on this simplified combat, as it does want to connect with your NES and SNES experiences – which is why there is a 2D pixel option present. The story may keep you engaged as there are balances between excellent storytelling, heavy padding and expanded tropes. The orchestral music may have you bopping along. The side quests may balloon your playtime. There is plenty to do, with the game best played over a prolonged period rather than one big chunk.
Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age Definitive Edition is the best way to play an iconic game. The Switch 2 is thriving off the opportunity to bring many third-party games to the system in impressive graphical performance. While anyone owning the game on Switch 1 does not get the upgrade for free, this release best serves those who are yet to purchase it on Nintendo’s system or are yet to experience the game at all. The upgrades may not be enough for the former, but the latter have a game that may become a favourite with its perfect alignment to handheld gaming. I know this will be a staple on my Switch 2 for many months to come.
