Whispers from the gaming world suggest that Square Enix, the prolific studio behind countless beloved role-playing titles, is reportedly turning its attention back to a lengthy classic: Dragon Quest VII. Originally released on the PlayStation back in 2000 in Japan and 2001 in the West, this ambitious entry is rumored to be receiving a full-scale remake, potentially aiming for a 2026 launch window.
Unlike the recently announced Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake (and the upcoming Dragon Quest 1+2 HD-2D Remake slated for October 30th), this rumored Dragon Quest VII project is specifically being referred to as a `remake,` not merely an `HD remake.` This distinction is crucial and hints at a much more significant overhaul than just a graphical polish in the vein of the beautiful retro-inspired HD-2D style. A full remake could imply substantial changes to gameplay mechanics, structure, or even presentation, potentially modernizing elements of the original`s often debated pacing and mechanics.
For those keeping score, this isn`t the first time Dragon Quest VII has been revisited. The Nintendo 3DS saw a revamped version titled Dragon Quest VII: Fragments of the Forgotten Past in the mid-2010s. That iteration brought updated 3D visuals and a quality-of-life improvement by making enemies visible on the map rather than relying solely on random encounters. A new remake would likely go far beyond these enhancements, potentially building the game from the ground up with contemporary design sensibilities.
Square Enix certainly isn`t shy about revisiting its extensive catalog, particularly its landmark RPGs. While Dragon Quest fans anticipate potential news, the company is also deep in the trenches with another major seventh installment remake project: the Final Fantasy VII Remake trilogy. The scenario for the third and final part of that saga was reportedly completed at the beginning of 2025, and the entire trilogy was recently confirmed for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. With Final Fantasy VII Rebirth (the second part) having launched in 2024 and the final part still without a release date, Square Enix has quite the plate full of high-profile remakes.
The prospect of a full Dragon Quest VII remake is exciting for fans of the game`s massive world and poignant narrative, which involves piecing together a scattered land by visiting different time periods. While this news remains in the realm of reports and speculation, it aligns with Square Enix`s current strategy of breathing new life into its most cherished classics. If true, 2026 could be a year to mark on the calendar for RPG enthusiasts eager to experience the Islands in the Stream like never before.
Callum Darby