Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age is launching on western shores in a couple of short months, but the game originally launched back in its home nation of Japan over a year ago (by the time we get the game, that is). While the text heavy games pose obvious localization challenges, according to a new interview with Game Informer, future entries might be a bit quicker about it.
Producer Yuu Miyake, says the story being told in the way that was intended by writer and series creator Yuji Horii is a key part of the appeal of the games, and the huge amount of text makes it a big undertaking, but Square Enix wants to try to alleviate that. “It takes a long time because of how the game is and the text by Mr. Horii is a very important part of the game and appeals to the fans,” said Miyake. “Obviously, we have to look at making that process shorter and more efficient.”
Miyake also spoke to his confidence in the game pleasing both modern players and old school fans, though he wasn’t very specific as to how that might be the case. But while classic features and sensibilities have been kept intact, it won’t feel old to a new fan. “I’m very confident we’ll be able to satisfy old-school fans and what they’re looking for,” Miyake said. “But at the same time, I think a lot of new players will also come in and I think those new players will not see it as something old-fashioned or outdated, and they will be able to accept it and play it as a modern game.” You can check out the full interview through the link above.