Dragon Quest IV: Chapters of the Chosen

Gaming Age (A) (100%)

Of course, I don't want to spoil things for you, and you absolutely should pick this up if you haven't already. Even with the old "Square Enix tax", Dragon Quest IV: Chapters of the Chosen is well worth the cost of admission, for a chance to glance back at where RPG's have come from, albeit with a new bit of paint and gloss. However, don't look at this classic gameplay as dated, instead appreciate the fact that you don't need to play the old NES title with its slow battles and bland overworld, and instead you'll get to play one of the better remakes on the market today. Highly recommended, and something that every RPG enthusiast should definitely check out.

Game Shark (A-) (91%)

For every complaint lobbed against the game, it’s hard not to overlook how amazingly ahead of its time Dragon Quest IV was back in the day. Subtle niceties like a large (but not too large) party of characters, an “autofight” tactics system and a multi-focal storyline all make it one of the most playable remake I’ve ever touched. With great pacing, clever character development, and phenomenal presentation, this relatively forgiving RPG is likely to convert fence-sitters into fully-fledged RPG fanatics. Even though it might be considered “by-the-book” by today’s standards, Dragon Quest IV should be considered required playing for any role-playing fan out there.

Mania (A-) (91%)

Dragon Quest IV is well-aware of what it offers: a modern twist on an old-school RPG adventure that deserves to be experienced—or re-experienced, as the case may be. You might not digest it well if you were reared on more modern RPGs, but if you want to get a taste of the games your forebears loved, you could do far, far worse.

Cubed3 (9 out of 10) (90%)

Dragon Quest IV may not have the glitz or the glamour of the Final Fantasy DS remakes, but the impressive combination of 3D game engine and 2D character sprites, unforgettable soundtrack, immense challenge and storyline that keeps you wanting more, all makes Chapters of the Chosen one of the best RPG experiences on Nintendo’s portable so far and certainly a game that Europeans should not miss out on after not receiving the NES original or PSone remake. Third time is definitely the charm…

HonestGamers (Staff reviews only) (9 out of 10) (90%)

Dragon Quest IV has always been a great game and this thorough reworking of the classic game shows just why that is. Both faithful to the original and to gamers looking for a quality adaptation, this port is just what fans deserve!

GamesRadar (9 out of 10) (90%)

Dragon Quest IV’s rigid traditionalism might deter some players from trying the series, which is a real shame. As a remake of a game played by too few outside of Japan, it’s a great starting point for those new to the franchise, and older fans can relive their memories with greatly improved graphics and translation. If you like your RPGs old school, yet approachable in their difficulty, you can’t do much better than this.

Digital Chumps (8.8 out of 10) (88%)

Dragon Quest IV: Chapters of the Chosen is yet another all star RPG to add to the already impressive lineup of RPGs on the DS. Featuring classic Dragon Quest gameplay and an overhaul of the game's presentation and interface, this is the defining version of the game to date. Though it is a bit of a port from the PSX version, it still reigns supreme to its console counterpart due to its portability alone. Impressive visuals, incredible soundtrack, and a lengthy, yet enjoyable storyline are what make Chapters of the Chosen a great choice for any RPG fan.

3D Juegos (8.8 out of 10) (88%)

Square Enix, junto a ArtePiazza, crean un “remake” de Dragon Quest IV que, lejos de innovar, nos acerca la jugabilidad en estado puro del original sin obligarnos a sacar el stylus de su sitio. Pasado y presente se juntan en un RPG conservador y tradicional pero con el desmesurado potencial de una serie que puede presumir de un éxito similar al de Final Fantasy. Tanto si se es un incondicional de los juegos de rol como si no, DQIV es una gran oportunidad para retomar el pasado y comprobar (además, en castellano) lo que lamentablemente muchos no pudieron disfrutar hace cerca de veinte años.

RPGFan (88 out of 100) (88%)

But I can say with confidence that Dragon Quest IV: Chapters of the Chosen is a must-own for nearly all JRPG fans. Only if you have experience with the series, and know that you are personally averse to all things Dragon Quest, should you turn down this opportunity. If you have no experience with the series, let me be the first to say that this is a great place to start! At least give it a rental or borrow it from a friend. You won't be let down. Dragon Quest IV: Chapters of the Chosen is solid. It's not the best RPG I've ever played, even on the DS alone, but it takes the genre back to its roots, its fundamentals. It's simple, fun, and easily worth its retail price. I only hope that the DS remakes for V and VI (the first time North America will receive these games, by the way) will be equally enjoyable experiences.

Game Vortex (87 out of 100) (87%)

I have thoroughly enjoyed playing Dragon Quest IV. It is really great to see an old game being brought back. The nostalgia alone is worth playing. If you're one of those people that have to have the latest graphics and is dying to use the touch screen for everything, then you're probably not going to enjoy Dragon Quest IV very much. If you liked it when it first came out, or you're missing the sprites of yesterday, you're really going to enjoy this game. As an added bonus, there is a new dungeon available at the end of the game that wasn't there for the previous versions. So go get Dragon Quest IV today. It's definitely worth the time and money.

Jolt (UK) (8.6 out of 10) (86%)

Dragon Quest: The Chapters of the Chosen takes a little while to get on the boil, but once it does you’ll find yourself absorbed in a lengthy, enjoyable, balanced and accessible JRPG that is as welcoming to genre veterans as it is to complete newcomers. There’s more than enough modern polish and sheen to justify bringing this former NES classic back for yet another outing.

Worth Playing (8.5 out of 10) (85%)

All in all, Dragon Quest IV is an excellent addition (or duplicate) to any RPG fan's collection. I recommend checking it out if you missed it the first couple of times as it'll keep you busy until the brand new Dragon Quest IX releases later next year.

Daily Game (8.5 out of 10) (85%)

There really are so many neat little parts that help break up the usual RPG monotony of grind, baby, grind. It would be a shame to spoil them for you here, but suffice it to say they exist, and you'll probably smile. If you haven't played it before, you are in for a treat -- providing you can deal with some old-school quirkiness. If you have played it and are wondering whether it's as good as you remember, it is. It may even be better than you remember. You had better get it and beat it fast, too, because the Dragon Quest V and VI remakes are just around the corner.

Jeuxvideo.com (17 out of 20) (85%)

Premier chapitre de la seconde trilogie Dragon Quest, L'Epopée des Elus est une sortie providentielle pour nous autres joueurs européens qui n'avions eu droit ni à l'épisode original ni à son remake sur PSOne. Bien qu'ancré dans un schéma de gameplay très old-school, Dragon Quest IV peut compter sur sa réalisation techniquement bluffante pour séduire à la fois les nostalgiques et les néophytes. Le danger pourrait finalement venir de la sortie simultanée de Final Fantasy IV. Mais ne commettez surtout pas l'erreur de choisir, prenez les deux !

VicioJuegos.com / uVeJuegos.com (84 out of 100) (84%)

Cabe destacar, entre todo los aspectos del juego, la forma de narración de la historia, que nos mete en el papel de los distintos héroes que controlamos, la traducción al castellano (cargada de dosis de humor) y los apartados técnicos, tanto el gráfico como el sonoro. Los únicos fallos de relevancia que le hemos encontrado son el poco uso del Stylus y la poca ajustada dificultad. Y lo mejor es que Square-Enix promete aprender de los errores en el resto de trilogía.

1UP (B+) (83%)

Granted, even in its remade form, the game won't be to everyone's tastes. Pivotal plot events lack the visual oomph of modern RPGs. The combat system, while speedy and full of interesting descriptive text, does tend to be rather limited in mechanics. Characters have a limited repertoire of skills, half of which become useless once more powerful upgrades appear. And while they're usually amusing, the outrrrrrageous regional accents can sometimes clutter the dialogue. All in all, though, Chapters of the Chosen is a more than worthy remake of a gaming great, and RPG fans should consider it a mandatory play. Remakes aren't a science -- they're an art...and Dragon Quest IV has been re-created with deft strokes.

GameZone (8.3 out of 10) (83%)

Dragon Quest IV is a game that doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel. Instead it gives you a solid, fun gaming experience that will get you hooked with its features such as the chapters and overall charm. Dragon Quest fans can be a tough bunch to please because they don’t want the games to be reinvented every time a new edition comes out. Well, Dragon Quest IV won’t disappoint hardcore Dragon Quest fans. Even gamers that never played a Dragon Quest game should be able to find the charm underneath the old-school gameplay.

UGO (UnderGroundOnline) (B+) (83%)

For fans of the series and I have to admit that includes me, the original Dragon Warrior for the NES was my indoctrination into RPGs, this will be a great experience. For those that never played generation one RPGs or those that have become pampered on the visual flash and innovation of modern action-RPGs DQIV my seem like an archaic exercise in grinding and random encounters. But this is a remake of a game that came out nearly two decades ago and in that sense it is a wonderful adaptation. This is a shining example of classic JRPG goodness and it works very well on the mobile DS platform.

GamePro (US) ( ) (80%)

As far as RPGs go, this classic gem's looks won't drop your jaw. The graphics aren't a huge step forward from the Japan-exclusive PlayStation remake, random battles can quickly get wearisome for the average player, and you'll have little to no reason to whip out your DS stylus. But if you're looking for a good, simple RPG that you can pick up and play without chaining yourself down, you should definitely choose Dragon Quest IV this fall.

Cheat Code Central (4 out of 5) (80%)

Chapters of the Chosen serves as a strong reminder of just how good some of the old times really were. It's a lengthy and deep RPG that offers a solid challenge without crushing the spirits of the non-hardcore RPG enthusiast. Those who haven't played a Dragon Quest game would do well to pick this one up; current fans may find themselves hard-pressed to put it back down.

NintendoWorldReport (8 out of 10) (80%)

Ultimately, Dragon Quest IV is so steeped in retro gaming culture that it's bound to be polarizing. While it is certainly a well-made game in the traditional Japanese RPG mold, I can't recommend it to everyone. Hopefully, you've learned enough in this review to decide whether it's right for you. If it is, you'll find dozens of hours of entertainment and a continuous drip of nostalgia to make DQIV worthwhile.

GameSpy ( ) (80%)

Dragon Quest IV offers a classic RPG experience that you'd be hard-pressed to find elsewhere. It combines an enchanting story with some decent upgrades that make it well worth checking out. If you've played this one before and found it wasn't for you, this version isn't going to change your mind. However, if you haven't played it, or if you're a fan, this remake should be a memorable experience. The game takes an old-school approach, but as this is one of the milestone RPGs of yesteryear, it's certainly something that can be enjoyed once again.

IGN (8 out of 10) (80%)

Dragon Quest fans may still want to plop down the cash, as it's a great nostalgic package for those that haven't spent time with the Japanese remake on the original PSX, and for those itching to get into the series, it won't get much better than Chapters of the Chosen. More could have been done with it though, and the end result is a product that still feels very archaic when compared to the other RPG offerings on DS, but one that is fun to play despite its flaws. It can be inspired at times, and rough at others. With a core game that's this strong though, you'll still find plenty of great gameplay to be had. It's just a shame that it isn't on the level of the Final Fantasy remakes.

GameSpot (8 out of 10) (80%)

Chapters of the Chosen is a charming, absorbing, and addictively fun role-playing game that offers the best chance Westerners have ever had to experience Dragon Quest IV.

Hooked Gamers (8 out of 10) (80%)

So there you have it, a rundown of Dragon Quest IV for the Nintendo DS. Although Square Enix never put as much effort into remaking the game as they have done with previous games, Dragon Quest IV is what it is – a solid role-playing game that is fun to play, despite feeling a little dated.

videogamer.com (8 out of 10) (80%)

This will be for you if you fancy transporting yourself back in time to a land where gameplay was unforgiving but incredibly rewarding. If you can cope with the archaic gameplay elements you'll find a JRPG that shames many of its more modern cousins with its entrancing plot and bewitching charm. If you've never played a Dragon Quest game before and always wondered what the fuss was about, give this a shot and you'll soon understand.

Play.tm (80 out of 100) (80%)

What I’m trying to get at, I think, is that you’ve got a fairly decent JRPG experience in Dragon Quest IV. The engine is ported from the original PSX version of Dragon Quest VII, with 2D sprites animating themselves in a 3D world. The extra dimension gives you a little bit of extra room to play in, but mostly it’s just a bit of cosmetic fun. In all honesty, I find it hard not to recommend Dragon Quest: The Chapters of the Chosen. It’s simple, pure, old-fashioned, vigorously-polished JRPG entertainment. It’s undeniably dated in parts, and the graphical update might not be as startling as FFIV’s, but the mix of gameplay and presentation lends the game a certain something. It simply works.

Pocket Gamer UK (8 out of 10) (80%)

By the time you hit the business end of Dragon Quest: The Chapters of the Chosen even those of you who are sick to death of traditional RPGs will be well and truly hooked on a sprawling adventure with a well written script and a likeable ensemble cast. It's a twist you're not likely to have seen coming. Very clever indeed.

Gamervision (8 out of 10) (80%)

While Dragon Quest IV doesn’t offer anything overwhelmingly new or unique, it’s a solid RPG experience that any fan of the genre will have fun playing. If you’ve already played through the game either on the NES or the PS1, there might not be enough new content to make you want to do it again, but being able to play a classic on the go is always great. If you’re new to the series, this is as good a place to dive in as you’re going to get. As for me, I’m now a fan, and future Dragon Quest games will pretty much be required playing. If you’re looking for a good RPG experience, or just want something to fill a gaping void until Chrono Trigger DS comes out later this year, Dragon Quest IV: Chapters of the Chosen will definitely do the trick.

Review Busters, The (8 out of 10) (80%)

For a Square Enix release on the Nintendo DS it feels like Dragon Quest IV is lacking a little from each category. Dragon Quest IV is a great RPG and it did start something new in the genre, but this remake can not live up to Final Fantasy III or IV. No matter what this is a good game, just don’t expect something mind blowing.

RPGamer (4 out of 5) (80%)

Average players will complete Dragon Quest IV in around 40 hours, which fly by fast. Surprisingly, the game's unique style does allow it to hold up to current handheld RPGs, and as far as old-school remakes go it is one of the better ones out there. The early chapters keep the player interested with their differing storylines, while the later chapters offer fun, open-ended exploration of the world. A key problem with many random-encounter combat systems is that they are slow to get in and out of, but Dragon Quest IV's combat is quick and painless. The only real problems in Dragon Quest IV are the lack of depth in the battle system and its partially archaic storyline. The game's charm and ease of play alleviate both of these problems. Though being simple and traditional in nature, Dragon Quest IV is a great game to play on the go, and wonderful easy-on-the-brain fun.

Thunderbolt Games (8 out of 10) (80%)

These are not Dragon Quest IV’s original graphics; this isn’t Dragon Quest IV’s original script. The rest of the games is the same as it ever was, though, providing a thoroughly classic RPG to DS owners outside of Dragon Quest’s usual stomping grounds in Japan. If only the game could have made it with its script untouched: what this port amounts to is a step forward in graphics, and a step backwards in storytelling. For players who don’t mind the overzealous translation, this game is a gem; for longtime fans of the series, it could be a bitter disappointment. What you get out of this game depends on what your expectations are going in.

Gaming since 198x (4 out of 5) (80%)

Paradoxalement, c'est le chapitre bonus qui tempère un peu les agréables moments passés sur ce Dragon Quest IV et m'empêche de lui décerner la note maximale. Les heures de levelling indispensables pour en venir à bout sont fastidieuses et tranchent avec le reste de l'aventure qui se déroule comme une belle histoire bourrée d'humour tirée d'un livre de contes. Dragon Quest IV est néammoins une réussite artistique et technique qui mérite amplement que l'on s'y intéresse, à moins d'être totalement allergique aux JRPGs.

Random Access (8 out of 10) (80%)

...I'm not sure if I actually reviewed the game or not. Hmmm. But what I do know is that if you are looking for a modern-looking handheld RPG that harkens back to a simpler time when we didn't need to attach customized jewels to our weapons or needless sidequests involving cooking, then... well, I guess pretty much ANY Dragon Quest game would be a great place to start. But, considering this is the start of its own unique trilogy, this could be a good point in the series to dive into.

RPG Site (8 out of 10) (80%)

More simple but also more beautiful than Final Fantasy IV DS, Dragon Quest IV: Chapters of the Chosen is a welcome addition to the catalogue of DS RPGs, and a must-own for fans of Square-Enix or classic JRPGs in general.

Eurogamer.net (UK) (8 out of 10) (80%)

This is, of course, an old game, built for one of the earliest Japanese consoles, now dressed up and made modern for a new generation of players unborn the first time around. But despite its age, Dragon Quest IV is a heavyweight update of a marvellous game. Indeed, it emerges as the strongest RPG for the system, an extraordinary feat considering its long journey to get here. Blue moustache and all.

Eurogamer.de (8 out of 10) (80%)

Aber ein hübscher Look ist eigentlich nebensächlich, denn Dragon Quest IV: Chapters of the Chosen überzeugt vor allem durch seine zeitlosen inneren Werte. Was vor fast 20 Jahren eine beinahe bahnbrechende Erzählweise war, schafft es auch heute noch, einen mit Leichtigkeit in den Bann zu ziehen. Das, plus die Tatsache, dass Dragon Quest IV definitiv zu den einfacheren und zugänglicheren Rollis zählt, ergibt ein Spiel, das seine Jahre locker abschüttelt und eine echte Bereicherung für den DS darstellt. „Mehr davon!“ brauche ich gar nicht erst zu sagen, denn Teil 5 und 6 stehen ja schon an. Sehr gut.

Gamer 2.0 (7.6 out of 10) (76%)

Dragon Quest has always been a sort of neglected series in the United States, and with the quality the games have always provided, it’s always been really unfortunate. Whether it sells or not, this is a great remake of a game that totally deserved one from the ground up—but at that, this isn’t for everyone. There are a handful of limitations when it comes to character building, but then again, it really shouldn’t matter how strong your character is. At full price, it’s only an okay purchase, but then again—if it doesn’t sell, who’s to say that we’ll ever see Dragon Quest in a North American release ever again?

4Players.de (75 out of 100) (75%)

Gut, Dragon Quest IV ist auch auf dem DS keine Enttäuschung, hat aber einfach nicht mehr annähernd den Stellenwert oder die Anziehungskraft, die es vor knapp zwanzig Jahren noch unbestritten ausübte. Das Genre ist nicht stehen geblieben, die Chronik der Erkorenen schon. Aus nostalgischer Warte bekommt man zwar nach wie vor noch immer ein knapp gutes Spielerlebnis geboten, das sich kein Genrefan entgehen lassen sollte, aber trotzdem bekommt man nicht mehr als ein äußerlich aufgehübschtes Vollpreis-Remake eines zeitlos geglaubten Klassikers, an dem die Zeit doch nicht so spurlos vorüber gegangen ist wie z. B. an einem Final Fantasy IV, das auch heute noch Award-Qualitäten besitzt.

Kombo.com (7.5 out of 10) (75%)

Despite feeling as aged as it is, Dragon Quest IV is still one of the most engaging and endearing RPG titles in gaming history. When the title originally released, it was revolutionary for the RPG genre and set us up the path for future RPG titles to follow. Sadly, the formula feels stagnant in the day when it competes with more contemporary titles. Nevertheless, the game is like your grandparents, even though they are old, you still love them. The game offers a great story, deep gameplay, and a wonderful adventure to explore. So, like your grandparents, this is a title worth visiting.

Computer Bild Spiele (2.48 out of 6) (70%)

Auch fehlt eine Einführung in die Grundlagen der Bedienung. Nicht nur deswegen, sondern auch aufgrund des happigen Schwierigkeitsgrades stoßen Genre-Anfänger schnell an ihre Grenzen. Dem lässt sich mit Geduld entgegenwirken, doch ist das nicht jedermanns Sache, wenn man zum 30sten Mal an derselben Stelle versagt. Wer sich der Herausforderung stellt oder bereits Rollenspielerfahrung mitbringt, erlebt ein liebevoll erzähltes und spielerisch ausgereiftes Abenteuer - einfach "gute" Unterhaltung.

411mania.com (7 out of 10) (70%)

Dragon Quest IV: Chapters of the Chosen is a solid RPG-remake for the DS. While it’s no as impressive as some of the Final Fantasy remakes or even any of the other DQ-based games on the same system it does have it’s own little unique charm. A few missed opportunities like no touchscreen support as well as sometimes downright boring gameplay keep it from being a game that many will remember down the road, but for the time being it’s a good game that will eat up the hours and at the very least keep a large number of RPG fans interested until the next DS game comes along.

Legendra (7 out of 10) (70%)

Dragon Quest IV réussi son passage sur DS avec brio. En plus de cela il se rend accessible à la fois aux joueurs américains et aux joueurs européens. Une bonne nouvelle donc pour tous ceux qui n'ont pas eu la chance de faire cet épisode auparavant. D'autant qu'il est plus abordable que ses ainés. Le système de chapitre est clairement le point fort du jeu et l'on regrette qu'il revienne vers un schéma plus classique ensuite. Néanmoins, les ajouts et notamment le chapitre bonus feront passer au fan du genre un moment magique comme seuls les Dragon Quest savent le faire.

Game Informer Magazine (7 out of 10) (70%)

If that doesn't scare you off, DQ IV's gameplay, storytelling, and artwork are rewarding...but rarely surprising.

RPGamer (3.5 out of 5) (70%)

When all is said and done, Dragon Quest IV: Chapters of the Chosen is still an endearing title that is well suited to Nintendo's dual-screened wonder. It brings high hopes for the rest of the Zenithian trilogy and even higher hopes for the entirely new Dragon Quest IX arriving on the same platform. For a fantastic first half and a visual treat, players should pick up this title while expecting to be greatly let down by a weak second half and some baffling design choices.

AceGamez (7 out of 10) (70%)

I'm certainly not saying that this is for everyone - if you don't already love RPGs then Chapters certainly isn't going to be the game to change your mind - but if you have more than a passing interest in the genre and you want to get a feel for how the RPG evolved and how things used to be in the good old days, then this is a great game (and much better than poorly translated, glitchy, emulated copies). I say go for the real thing every time - and you might just find this trip down memory lane worthwhile, and more than a bit enjoyable.

Games TM (7 out of 10) (70%)

Those who finally stood up and took notice of the role-playing game due to Final Fantasy XII's extreme makeover will be utterly stumped, but anyone who remembers the 'good old days' will feel like videogames are worth playing again. Although it has certainly has gone through a positive transformation, it's a shame the visuals weren't upgraded as per many of Square Enix's recent remakes. Still, Chapters Of The Chosen is a fine remake and one worthy of any role-playing game fan's time.

Modojo ( ) (60%)

Dragon Quest IV: Chapters of the Chosen isn't a bad game, it just lacks anything that makes us want to cheer. The graphics are slightly improved with a new 3-D map, but most of the game features colorful 2-D animations reminiscent of the original Dragon Quest IV. If you have fond memories of it or you are an RPG fanatic, definitely check out this game. If you don't count yourself in those categories, just remember this: Dragon Quest IV is definitely worth a look and a rental, but the lack of innovation makes this feel like the same old quest.