This Week’s Japanese Game Releases: Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake, Tales of Xillia Remastered & More
The week ahead in Japanese gaming promises an exciting blend of nostalgia, innovation, and high-quality remasters. From iconic JRPGs to newly reimagined classics, October 2025 is shaping up to be a month to remember for fans of Japanese games. Here’s a closer look at the notable titles hitting shelves (or download queues) this week:
Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake
Release Date: October 30, 2025 (Worldwide)
The Dragon Quest series, one of Japan’s most beloved and iconic RPG franchises, is set to see a new light with the release of Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake. The classic first two titles of the series, originally released in the 1980s, are now reimagined with Square Enix’s stunning HD-2D graphics, blending nostalgic pixel art with modern lighting and 3D effects. This remake promises to breathe new life into the early chapters of the Dragon Quest saga, combining the traditional charm of the original with cutting-edge technology.
Fans of the series and newcomers alike will appreciate the faithful recreation of the original stories, as well as the fresh coat of paint that modernizes the visuals without losing the essence of what made these titles so special. With Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D, players will once again embark on quests to save the world, battling monsters, exploring dungeons, and experiencing a world brimming with adventure.
Tales of Xillia Remastered
Release Date: October 29, 2025 (Japan)
The remaster of Tales of Xillia, the critically acclaimed action JRPG that originally launched in 2011, is finally making its way to modern consoles. This remaster brings updated visuals, quality-of-life improvements, and reworked voice acting, while preserving the fast-paced, dynamic battle system that made the original such a fan favorite.
Set in the world of Rieze Maxia, Tales of Xillia tells the story of two protagonists, Jude Mathis and Milla Maxwell, whose paths intertwine in a tale of war, magic, and political intrigue. This remastered version allows players to experience the captivating story once again, now with sharper visuals and more fluid combat sequences. Fans of the Tales series and newcomers to the franchise will find much to enjoy in this expanded edition, which adds to the legacy of one of the most enduring JRPG franchises in history.
Other Notable Releases
While Dragon Quest and Tales of Xillia are the headline releases, there are several other exciting titles making their way to Japan this week:
- Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown – Anniversary Edition (October 30, 2025): A special edition celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Ace Combat 7 series. This package includes all the downloadable content released since the game’s original launch, plus a range of extras for long-time fans of the franchise.
- Persona 6: Phantom Dance (October 30, 2025): A rhythm-based spin-off set in the Persona universe, featuring characters from the latest Persona 5 title. Players will be able to experience new music and choreography while diving deeper into the story of their favorite characters.
- Nier: Reincarnation – Infinite Journey Expansion (October 31, 2025): The free update for Nier: Reincarnation introduces new story content, missions, and characters. Fans of the mobile title will be eager to see how the series continues to evolve on mobile platforms.
What’s Next for Japanese Gaming in 2025?
As October rolls on, there are still plenty of exciting releases on the horizon, with several high-profile titles scheduled for the coming months. The Tales of Xillia remaster is just the beginning of a wave of nostalgic releases, with other classic franchises expected to make their return in new, polished forms. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the JRPG genre or a newcomer curious about these iconic franchises, October 2025 is shaping up to be a must-play month for gaming enthusiasts.
