TouchArcade Rating: My experience with Square Enix's Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince on Switch last year was overwhelmingly positive, despite some technical hiccups. The game's charm and addictive gameplay loop surpassed other Dragon Quest spin-offs on the platform, rivaling the exceptional Dragon Quest Builders 2. While I anticipated a PC port shortly after the Switch release, similar to Dragon Quest Treasures, a mobile release was unexpected. Square Enix has surprised us all by announcing the arrival of Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince ($23.99 on mobile, $39.99 on Steam) on iOS, Android, and Steam on September 11th, complete with all previously released DLC, including the Digital Deluxe Edition content. See the trailer below:
Comparison images showcasing the game's visuals across mobile, Switch, and Steam platforms are available on the official Japanese website. Here's one example:
Importantly, the store listings confirm that the real-time online battle mode from the Switch version will be absent in the Steam and mobile releases.
The Nintendo Switch version of Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince is currently priced at $59.99 (standard) and $84.99 (Digital Deluxe Edition). Given my enjoyment of the Switch version, I eagerly anticipate reviewing the game on iPhone, iPad, and Steam Deck upon its September 11th launch. This swift mobile port following the initial console release is a welcome surprise, especially considering the typical delays seen in the series, such as with Dragon Quest Builders. Pre-register on the App Store for iOS and Google Play for Android.
Have you played Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince on Switch? Will you be picking it up on mobile or Steam?
Update: Added comparison image and website information.