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This year my E3 badge was without a holder since I wasn't unable to make it out to LA for the show. But wouldn't you know, the year I can't make it is the year SquareEnix unveiled Dragon Quest VIII to North America! By now you've probably heard about the basics but details on the localization have been scarce.
The voice acting announcement has come with mixed reactions. The story sequences are voiced with a distinct British flavor and a UK studio is in the process of recording the dialogue. The studio's name and actors have not yet been announced. If the player wishes to have Yangus' voice in their head rather than coming through the speakers, audio options will be available.
The reaction to the new graphical interface has also been mixed. When asked, SquareEnix was unsure if a "modern/classic" option would be available. The same was said if the interface seen in the demo was the final design.
Since DQ creator Yuji Horii hinted at the Slime PS2 Controller in a recent interview, I asked if it would in fact see a US release. I was told that the manufacturing company is interested in producing them. Whether it will be a wide release or a pre-order promotion is still being decided.
Finally, when asked if SquareEnix has any other plans for Dragon Quest outside of VIII, unfortunately the response was "nothing we can announce now". So it's still unknown if titles like Dragon Quest V, Slime Morimori or Dragon Quest I Mobile will see a stateside release before the sun sets on the current consoles.
With its American audience growing, hopefully these changes will help turn Dragon Quest into a mainstream hit this November. Plus it's always nice to play a Dragon Quest game without having to modify your console!
Thanks to SquareEnix's Kumiko Hakushi for taking the time to answer my questions.
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