One of the best RPGs of all time.
Concept
From a narrative point, Dragon Quest IV is fairly different from other Dragon Quest games. First, you play as the hero's future companions and then you play as the hero himself(or herself). This method of storyteling is effective and interesting. Each adventure feels like a different game. It's also not overly complicated so you can jump in at the start. I love the early moments of RPGs so getting to play four short adventures before one big one is a dream come true for me.
9
Graphics
This is actually a port of the PlayStation remake. So it looks better than the original NES version. In fact, it looks like the PSone's Dragon Quest VII. The character sprites are great and the character designs don't hurt either. And when you're in batle the enemies are fully animated like in Dragon Quest VIII. But in battle you can't see your characters. Just potraits on the top screen. So that's kind of a minus point. The characters also walk in place even when standing still. Which just looks weird.
8.5
Sound
The BGM is impressive. The sound effects are good. But there's no voiceovers since this is a remake of a NES game. But because it's a remake of an NES game I'll let that slide.
8.5
Playability
If you expect something inovative and cutting-edge by today's standards, I already said, "It's a port of the PlayStation remake." And that PlayStation remake is of an NES game. But for the rest of us, the gameplay works well. It's not overly complicated so you can jump right in. Unfortunately, you'll have to grind a lot for new levels and weapons. But it was orignally on the NES.
8.5
Entertainment
Dragon Quest IV for DS is for more than just nostalgia. Good gameplay, Great music, and a story that's told in an effective and interesting way make this game easy to recommend for RPG fans and awesome game lovers alike. My favorite part of the game is Alena's adventure. It's fun to have a runaway princess in your party. Don't believe me? Play the game and get to her adventure.
9
Replay Value
This game has plenty of replayability. It's fun. I shouldn't have to say more.
9