Beginner’s Guide to Playing Dragon Quest VII Reimagined: Everything You Need to Know

Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is an updated version of the classic JRPG that adjusts the original pacing and modernizes several of its systems. For those starting their adventure, it may feel complex due to the number of mechanics available from the beginning.

This guide explains the basic concepts, the combat system, vocations, and the best decisions to progress without confusion.

What Changes in Dragon Quest VII Reimagined?

The Reimagined version reduces one of the main issues of the original title: the slow start. Now the first battle happens much earlier, allowing players to understand the mechanics within the first minutes.

Main Changes

Main Changes
Original Version	Reimagined Version
3+ hours until the first battle	Under 30 minutes
Linear vocation system	Moonlighting system (dual vocation)
Fixed party roles	Flexible combinations
Lengthy dialogue sequences	Streamlined conversations

 

Although the opening is faster, the difficulty remains. Combat requires planning from the very beginning.

Combat System

Combat is turn-based and menu-driven. Each character acts according to their Agility stat, so faster characters attack first.

Basic Fundamentals

• Equipment can be changed during battle from the menu.
• Turn order depends on Agility.
• Strategy matters more than reaction speed.

“Worked Up” System

During combat, characters can build energy. When they become “Worked Up,” you can activate “Let Loose” to perform stronger special attacks.

Important Tip

Always check enemy weaknesses. This information is saved and helps in future battles.

Party Management

The main party includes:

• Hero: versatile character.
• Maribel: specializes in magic.
• Kiefer: focused on physical damage.

Recommendations:

• Keep healing items stocked.
• Rotate members if the game allows it.
• Save before major bosses.
• Adjust AI behavior from the menu.

Vocation System: Moonlighting

The Moonlighting system allows characters to use a primary and secondary vocation at the same time. This provides strategic combinations not available in the original version.

How It Works

1. Choose a primary vocation (core abilities).
2. Assign a secondary vocation to cover weaknesses or enhance strengths.

Examples:

• Warrior + Mage: durability with access to spells.
• Thief + Priest: fast support with utility skills.
• Mage + Fighter: magical damage with better survivability.

Initial Recommendations

Recommended Combinations
Character	Primary Vocation	Secondary Vocation
Hero	Sailor	Fighter
Maribel	Mage	Priest
Kiefer	Warrior	Thief

 

Changing vocations resets the character’s level but keeps learned skills. Planning progression is important.

Progression Strategies

The game rewards planning more than repetitive grinding.

Using Seeds

Seeds permanently increase stats. Recommended priorities:

• Strength for physical damage dealers.
• Life for survivability.
• Magic for spellcasters.
• Agility for turn order advantage.

Monster Hearts

Monster Hearts grant permanent passive abilities when equipped. They are obtained by defeating enemies.

Useful early examples:

• Slime Heart: automatic healing between battles.
• Dracky Heart: increased critical hit chance.
• Brownie Heart: enhanced experience gain.

Some hearts unlock new vocations, so it is recommended to keep them.

Exploration and Navigation

The world includes multiple islands and time periods. Exploring carefully prevents unnecessary backtracking.

Transportation Options

• Zoom: fast travel between known locations.
• Ship: access to new islands.
• Magic Carpet: allows movement across the world map.

Tablet Fragments

Tablet Fragments unlock new areas and story segments. They are scattered throughout the world and require full exploration to collect.

Boss Preparation

Before major encounters:

• Buy medicinal herbs.
• Bring MP recovery items.
• Adjust Moonlighting combinations.
• Equip appropriate Monster Hearts.
• Save multiple times before attempting.

Some status effects persist after battle and must be cured immediately.

Final Tips

Dragon Quest VII Reimagined combines classic systems with modern adjustments. To progress smoothly:

• Experiment with vocation combinations.
• Save frequently.
• Explore each area thoroughly.
• Talk to NPCs for hints.
• Avoid rushing the main story.

Mastering these systems helps players enjoy the depth of the game from the start and adapt to its strategic structure.