Japan: Latest Famitsu readers most wanted video games
The newest round of Japan’s weekly readers’ poll has landed, and the top spot remains unchanged: the Nintendo Switch version of Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake continues to command the most attention. The classic pair’s makeover in the striking HD-2D style is clearly resonating with players hungry for polished nostalgia on modern hardware.
One eyebrow-raising detail is the absence of the freshly revealed Dragon Quest VII Reimagined from this week’s tally. Don’t read too much into it—this ranking was compiled before the announcement went public, so the remake simply missed the voting window. Expect that to change once the next round of ballots closes.
Meanwhile, the runner-up slot goes to the intriguing Kirby Air Riders. While official details remain under wraps, the mere prospect of high-velocity Kirby action is enough to spark curiosity. The Kirby series thrives on playful experimentation, and a project centered on momentum, traversal, and competitive pick-up-and-play chaos sounds like an instant crowd-pleaser for local and online multiplayer alike.
Why the Dragon Quest remakes are dominating
Dragon Quest’s enduring pull in Japan can’t be overstated. The decision to present the first two entries in HD-2D—melding pixel artistry with dynamic lighting and modern effects—has proven a smart bridge between old and new. It keeps the spirit of the originals intact while offering a visual refresh that feels premium on Switch. For veterans, it’s a comfort-food return; for newcomers, it’s a friendly gateway to RPG history without the friction of dated presentation.
Timing matters
All votes counted for this chart were submitted between September 17 and September 22. That’s the key reason Dragon Quest VII Reimagined isn’t yet reflected. With the reveal now out in the wild, the next set of rankings should paint a fuller picture of how the remake stacks up against current heavy hitters.
Key takeaways at a glance
- Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake (Switch) holds the No. 1 spot.
- Kirby Air Riders lands in second, stoking excitement with a speed-focused twist on a fan-favorite universe.
- Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is missing due to timing and is likely to appear in the next update.
What to watch next
The next ranking will be the one to watch as newly announced projects enter the voting slate. If momentum carries, Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D could continue its run at the top—yet a strong first showing for Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is just as plausible given the franchise’s pull. And don’t sleep on Kirby; a well-timed burst of new information could vault Kirby Air Riders even higher as players seek fresh multiplayer-friendly experiences on Switch.
For now, Japan’s readers have sent a clear message: refined classics and inventive comfort-food gameplay are still king—and all eyes are on what shakes up the board in the next round.
