Square Enix continues to add to its growing library of Switch 2 ports, this time with Dragon Quest XI S Definitive Edition, which is one of the best RPGs of the last console generation. While fans have been able to play DQXI S on the Switch 2 already, it was only possible using the original Switch 1 release that came out back in 2019, and as solid as the Switch 2’s boost mode is, the resolution and framerate can’t reach the same levels as the PlayStation, Xbox, or PC versions. This native Switch 2 port aims to even the scales a bit, and by and large, it succeeds and is a respectable port. That said, it may not be for everyone, so here’s a breakdown of what to consider before you drop the money on this latest way to adventure through the world of Erdrea.
Why it may be for you
Why it may be for youDragon Quest as a whole has seen quite the resurgence in the past few years, with releases like the fantastic HD-2D remakes of Dragon Quest I, II, and III, the return of the DQ Monsters games, and even the first real trailer and reveal of DQXII! With that being the case, there is a real chance that maybe you haven’t played the eleventh mainline title yet; in which case, this latest version is a great way to experience it, and playing it on the go with the Switch 2 feels great.
Even if you are no stranger to the draconic adventure, this new version does include a couple of nifty improvements over Square’s Switch 1 version predecessor, leveraging the improved tech found in the Switch 2. You now have access to a “Performance Mode” which caps the resolution at 1080p but lets the game run at a buttery-smooth 60fps—a target that I never found to dip from—and a “Quality Mode” which bumps the resolution up to 1440p but cuts the frames in half, locking it at 30.
Why you may want to pass
Dragon Quest XI S Definitive Edition suffers similar drawbacks to many of Square Enix’s other recent Switch 2 ports. That being a lack of saves carrying over and no upgrade path should you own the original Switch 1 version. Admittedly, the fact that the Switch version released seven years ago (how time flies), and the idea of rebuying such a massive game, especially at the Switch 2 version’s reduced cost of $39.99, may not be as big of a pill to swallow for some. The lack of saves carrying over may, however. Like I said, DQXI is a massive game, and if you’ve sunk serious time over the years into the S1 release, you will have to decide if not bringing those over is worth it.
Another factor to consider is that if you do the majority of your gaming on the television or another large monitor and have access to a PlayStation, you can find this game cheaper elsewhere. Usually between $10 and $20 cheaper, too. Just something to consider for all you fellow couch players out there. Also, just be aware that to take advantage of the full 1440p experience that the new Quality Mode provides, you will need to play with the Switch 2 docked, as the system’s screen caps out at 1920×1080 (though you do get some clarity bumps; I noticed it particularly in shadows). It should also be noted that outside of being handheld, both the performance and the resolution can be found on other platforms, with prices tending to be $10–$20 lower, seeing as they’ve been out longer. And, just as a heads up, this new Switch 2 port will unfortunately be a Game-Key Card, meaning no actual data on the cartridge. The physical collector inside me weeps.
Last Thoughts
I will never turn down a reason to revisit Erdrea and the wonderful cast of characters in Dragon Quest XI. It delights my heart to see this series come back so strongly these past few years, and I’ve had a good time lounging in bed playing the early hours of this game on my Switch 2. Age hasn’t dulled Dragon Quest XI’s sheen, and it remains one of the best RPGs from the last generation. The performance and Quality Modes that the Switch 2 port introduces, along with being bundled with the various item sets, make it an easy recommendation if you are looking to play it for the first time. The inclusion of the Performance and Quality Modes is nice and works well, but compared to, say, the Final Fantasy X / X-2 Switch 2 port that added features like fast-forwarding and turning off encounters, Dragon Quest XI feels a bit underbaked. The text is still blurry in 2D mode when playing docked, and it would have been nice if that mode got some love as well. For folks that already own a version of DQXI S, what it boils down to is whether playing it portably at 60fps is really worth the $40 price tag or not. If you haven’t played it before, I 100% recommend playing Dragon Quest XI, and if you only have access to a Switch 2, this is an easy recommendation. If you have other platforms at your disposal, though, it may be more cost-effective to check those out instead, unless that portability is a big selling point for you.
For an impressive and thorough breakdown, I highly recommend you check out this piece over on RPGSite.
Dragon Quest XI S: Definitive Edition is available now on Switch 2.
Thank you to Square Enix for providing us a Switch 2 code to test out for this piece!
