Dragon Quest XI is finally coming to Western shores in a little over a month, and Square Enix has released a new English trailer, which serves as an introduction to the game’s colorful cast. They’ve also released some interesting thoughts on each character from Dragon Quest creator and writer Yuji Horii. Check out the trailer and descriptions, below.
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The Luminary – The Destined Hero
Dragon Quest protagonists typically don’t have a strong personality. Reason being, is that it is determined that the main character should first and foremost be the player. To make sure the player can identify with the hero, we intentionally make him quite normal, or quite orthodox, so he doesn’t act in a way that the player definitely wouldn’t. We strive to create the protagonist so that it will be easier for players to feel that they are the main character. In that respect, ultimately, I want people to have their own vision and depiction of the protagonist and project themselves onto the character.
Erik – The Reliable Partner-In-Crime
As mentioned earlier, in terms of the setting, Erik is traveling to atone for his sins and meets a prophet who informs him “you will lend a hand to the Luminary, and you will be free of your sins”. At first, he thought this to be preposterous and didn’t believe the prophecy, and this reaction describes his personality to a certain degree. But, when the “Luminary” actually appears before Erik while he was placed in the dungeons, he comes to believe the prophecy and saves the hero, so there’s an honest and compassionate side to him as well.
Veronica Serena – The Fearless Young Mage and The Laid Back Healer
Veronica looks like a child, but she’s actually a mature young lady. She’s a bit of a tomboy with a strong mind, and she doesn’t shy away or hold back from stating her own opinions. In comparison, Serena is the one that always hides in the shadows. In fact, Veronica is always saying, “she’s such a slowpoke,” But, this is a nice distinctive quality between the two characters and their relationship.
Rab – The Mysterious Old Man
Rab appears with Jade. He’s a strange character that brings to question “who exactly is he?” That said, despite his appearance, he’s actually quite strong. He has a stern side, but also has the playful side; he is enshrouded in mystery.
Jade – The Noble Martial Artist
She’s fearless and brave, as well as chivalrous and dignified. She’s like an older sister, striving to protect and support the main character, but she also has a vulnerable side.
Sylvando – The Entertainer Extraordinaire
Again, he believes that bringing joy to others is his form of chivalry, and he works vigorously towards that belief.
Dragon Quest is a beloved institution in Japan, eclipsing even Final Fantasy in popularity (Dragon Quest XI has already sold over 3 million in the country), but the series has never really taken off in America or Europe. Dragon Quest XI features a somewhat more modern, open design, so it will be interesting to see how Westerners respond. Japan’s other favorite series, Monster Hunter, finally found success here this year, so maybe it’s Dragon Quest’s turn! You can check out some Dragon Quest XI gameplay, courtesy of PlayStation Underground, below.
Dragon Quest XI ventures forth onto the PC and PS4 on September 4. The game is also coming to Nintendo Switch, but a release date for that version has yet to be revealed.
