JRPG · Turn-based

Dragon Quest

The classic Japanese RPG. Mostly standalone adventures — plus one legendary trilogy.

Games on Switch: 6
Story complexity: Easy to follow
Consoles: Switch · Switch 2

Start with Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age – Definitive Edition See the playing order

Dragon Quest

The story, simply explained

What is it?

A long-running, friendly turn-based RPG series famous for its cheerful monsters.

What is the story about?

Most games are a hero's journey to defeat a great evil. Each numbered game is usually a separate world.

Who are the main characters?

A silent hero you name, plus memorable companions in each game.

Why play it?

Easy to learn, warm in tone, and full of exploring.

Is the story connected?

Mostly not. Dragon Quest III, I and II form the Erdrick trilogy, played in the story order III → I → II.

How many games should I play?

One to start: Dragon Quest XI S or III HD-2D.

Choose your playing order

Start with XI S or the Erdrick trilogy.

Story order or beginner order — what's the difference?

Story order lists games by when their events happen inside the story. Beginner order is the order we recommend playing them, which is often closer to release order because later games are written assuming you played earlier ones. Playing in story order can spoil twists or start you on an older, harder game.

Missing chapters

Dragon Quest IV, V, VI, VIII, IX, X — Not on Switch or Switch 2 in English as of this check.

What to buy

Dragon Quest XI S on Switch 2 is a separate purchase — there is no upgrade from the Switch version.

Switch 2 runs most Switch games, but not all. Check Nintendo's compatibility information for older titles. Availability on the Malaysian eShop is not yet verified for every game.