Review of Dragon Quest XI
https://dragonquest.square-enix-games.com/xi/en-us/
----- This post has no plot spoilers ----
One of my favourite games growing up was Dragon Quest IX, so I was overjoyed when Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age first came out in 2017 I was so happy!
There are two versions of Dragon Quest XI: Dragon Quest XI and Dragon Quest XI S.
I bought both editions (Dragon Quest XI S came out about a year later) one on my laptop, and the other on my Nintendo Switch Lite.
The difference between the two is that, firstly, Dragon Quest XI can no longer be bought. Dragon Quest XI also does not have some extra content and finishing that Dragon Quest XI S has. Dragon Quest XI S can still be bought and is the definitive edition.
https://dragonquest.square-enix-games.com/xi/en-us/features/
Despite having both games, I enjoyed the first playthrough all the same. I definitely prefer Dragon Quest XI S because of the additional feature of being able to play in 3D HD as well as in 2D (16-bit). Making the game super SUPER nostalgic!
https://dragonquest.square-enix-games.com/xi/en-us/
This game has a very long story, open world (depending where you are in the game) and crafting! Low character customisation compared to Dragon Quest IX, but made up for it with special character outfits, which is great for cutscenes. The music in the game is extremely, if not the same, as Dragon Quest IX, but can also be switched to orchestral (like in Dragon Quest 8).
The protagonist that you play as is completely silent (most of the time) and the backstory of each character is explained well, with the story flowing well.
The game has a Draconian feature which makes the gameplay harder! This is great if you prefer to be held back a lot to play for even longer! With Draconian features like not being able to shop (only craft or get drops), no armour, and my personal favourite Shypox (stops your character from fighting - they're embarrassed!).
https://dragonquest.square-enix-games.com/xi/en-us/features/
This game is definitely one of my favourites and I would recommend playing it through until the end!
https://dragonquest.square-enix-games.com/xi/en-us/features/