# Dragon Quest Introduction ## Overview *Dragon Quest*, released on May 27, 1986, for the Famicom by Enix and developed by Chunsoft, is the first entry in the iconic *Dragon Quest* series, later released as *Dragon Warrior* in North America (1989). The Hero, a descendant of Erdrick, quests to defeat the Dragonlord and rescue Princess Gwaelin in Alefgard (*Wikipedia*). Designed by Yuji Horii with music by Koichi Sugiyama and monster designs by Akira Toriyama, it popularized turn-based RPGs (*GameFAQs*). Its simple yet engaging gameplay was lauded (*Nintendo Power*: 4/5), though grind-heavy progression was noted (*IGN*: 7/10). ## Why Play Dragon Quest? *Dragon Quest* delivers foundational RPG gameplay. Players control the Hero, exploring Alefgard’s overworld, dungeons, and towns, battling monsters like Slimes and Drackees in turn-based combat (*GameFAQs*). Leveling up via experience points and collecting gold for gear (e.g., Iron Sword) drive progression (*dragon-quest.org*). The quest spans 10-15 hours, with battles taking 1-2 minutes. Its charming 8-bit visuals and epic story appeal to *Super Robot Taisen Compact 3* fans for retro depth, distinct from *Need for Speed: Underground 2*’s racing or *Captain Tsubasa V*’s sports RPG (*@RetroGamingX*). ## Key Features - Explore Alefgard in a 10-15 hour single-player adventure - Turn-based combat against iconic monsters (e.g., Slimes) - Level up and upgrade gear with gold in towns - Battle the Dragonlord to rescue Princess Gwaelin - Iconic 8-bit visuals and Koichi Sugiyama soundtrack - Authentic Famicom/NES gameplay on our retro ROM platform ## Key Differences: Famicom/NES vs. Other Versions - **Famicom (1986)/NES (1989)**: Japan (Famicom), North America (NES, as *Dragon Warrior*), 8-bit visuals (*Wikipedia*). - **Compared to Super Robot Taisen Compact 3 (2003, WonderSwan Color)**: *Dragon Quest* is solo RPG, no mecha; *Compact 3* is tactical (*GameFAQs*). - **Compared to Dragon Quest II (1987, Famicom)**: *DQ* is single-character; *DQII* adds party system (*Sega-16*). - **Compared to Need for Speed: Underground 2 (2004)**: RPG vs. open-world racing (*GameSpot*). - **Compared to Captain Tsubasa V (1994, SNES)**: Fantasy RPG vs. soccer RPG (*Wikipedia*). - **Re-releases**: MSX (1986), Game Boy Color (1999, with *DQII*), iOS/Android (2014), Switch (2019) (*dragon-quest.org*). ## Play Dragon Quest Online Play *Dragon Quest* (1986, Famicom/NES) instantly on Classic Joy Games with NES emulators. Also available on RetroGames.cz, EmulatorGames.net, OldGameShelf.com (4.6/5 from 50 votes), or *Nintendo Switch Online* (2019). Physical copies cost $20-$60 (cart) or $80-$200 (CIB) on eBay (*PriceCharting*). Use Nestopia or RetroArch. Strategy: Grind near Tantegel for early levels; buy Iron Shield first. Cheat: Enter “zgyuwqopjtxvxv” at name entry for high stats (*GameFAQs*). Note: Some emulators may glitch during Dragonlord’s fire animation (*vizzed.com*). Join Classic Joy Games and save Alefgard now!