Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age, Definitive Edition review

Dragon Quest XI S is the friendliest entry point on the list. Square Enix describes classic turn-based battles with a modern twist, simple enough for beginners but with enough depth for hardcore fans, and Steam lists it as playable without timed input. The Definitive Edition adds character-specific scenarios, a choice of original or orchestral music, Japanese voices and a switch between 2D and 3D graphics. It is a standalone story, so you need no series knowledge: you play the Luminary, a reincarnated hero branded a demon by a king, and gather a party of companions drawn by Akira Toriyama. Square Enix says side quests and mini-games add up to well over 100 hours. For veterans, the Draconian Quest settings let you build a harder custom challenge. The trade-off is that battles are less tactical than the CRPG picks here. At $39.99 it is strong value.

Who it is for

Newcomers to turn-based RPGs and anyone who wants a long, traditional adventure with simple battles.

Price

$39.99 one-time purchase on Steam (US store).

this is the ultimate DQXI experience. $39.99 Buy on Steam
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 10, 2026.

Key features

• Classic turn-based battles with mechanics simple enough for beginners
• Well over 100 hours of content with side quests and mini-games
• Switch between 2D and 3D graphics
• Extra character-specific scenarios and an orchestral soundtrack option
• Draconian Quest options for a custom, harder difficulty

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: One of the easiest turn-based RPGs to start
• Strength: Huge amount of content for $39.99
• Strength: No timed inputs required, according to Steam
• Weakness: Combat is less tactical than Baldur's Gate 3 or Divinity
• Weakness: Long by design
• Weakness: Single-player and Windows only on Steam

Key facts

• Developer and publisher: Square Enix
• Released on Steam: December 4, 2020
• Content: Well over 100 hours
• Graphics modes: 2D and 3D
• Character design: Akira Toriyama

Where it ranks

Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age, Definitive Edition is No. 5 in our Best Turn-Based RPGs verdict.