The Zenithia trilogy will finally make it to US shores in its entirety, starting with the Nintendo DS remake of Dragon Quest IV. Some may remember playing the original release, Dragon Warrior 4 on the NES. The series that formed the JRPG genre as we know it, Dragon Quest IV Chapters of the Chosen from Square-Enix will take you back to an era of actual role-playing.

Dragon Quest IV is divided into chapters that center around the future party members of the main hero, who is introduced in the prologue. Each character has their share of adventure which leads them all on a common path to unite with the hero to stop an evil that threatens the world.

Graphics
Many first reactions to Dragon Quest IV may involve comparing it to the Final Fantasy IV DS remake. These are two separate animals in my book. The 2D/3D graphics give the game that nostalgic feel, but nonetheless, this is still a graphically impressive DS game. From the monster animations to the various towns you visit, 2D fans will not be let down. Who can say no to Toriyama designs anyway?

Sound
Dragon Quest soundtracks are always pleasant to listen to, but you may want to consider headphones for this one. The DS speakers just aren't up to par for it.

Gameplay
This is what 'oldschool' feels like. A story in a JRPG where I actually care about what is going on with the characters rather than finding the best gear and rare items. I honestly tried to speak to every NPC in town, something I have not done in a long time with other games. Square-Enix boasts that the script has over 13 unique dialects from around the world and this can be odd at times, but is nothing to complain about. Some may find the menu systems a bit awkward, for example, going to 'Miscellaneous' to equip weapons and armor. Try the local wireless Chance Encounter mode with a friend if you can.

Overall
I am refraining from discussing the characters and story in any detail as it is the heart of the game and should not be spoiled. Dragon Quest IV Chapters of the Chosen is a classic, a treasure. If you have had your fill of canned textbook JRPGs, this title might take you by surprise, even if you did play the original. Anyone new to Dragon Quest, consider yourself lucky and enjoy a piece of gaming history's finest.