8Bit/Digi

Hero, It’s Time for you to Set Off

Welcome to another story of how I was introduced to an awesome game during a convention. It was during Anime Expo 2023 that I got the chance to check out Infinity Strash: DRAGON QUEST The Adventure of Dai during a special preview session. It’s a departure from the standard setup while having its own charm.

Infinity Strash: DRAGON QUEST The Adventure of Dai is an action RPG based on the anime of the same name and set in the world of Dragon Quest. Players will get to relive the many moments from the series. At the same time they will also forging their own path while also enjoying the many side games it has to offer. I should also note that I’ve never read the manga and I’ve only watched a few episodes of the anime. Thus; this review will be based on the game’s own merit instead of comparing it to the source material.

A Swordsman of Justice

Set in a world that has been at peace for some time, the story begins with Dai becoming a pupil of the renowned hero, Avan De Zinuar III. This peace is shattered when Demon King Hadlar returns. After Avan sacrifices himself to save his students, Dai along with Maam and Popp vow to avenge their master and restore peace to their world. To do so, they set out on a quest to rally Avan’s former students to the cause while battling the forces of Demon King Hadlar.

Infinity Strash is an adaptation of the anime, Dragon Quest The Adventure of Dai. You don’t need to have watched the anime to understand what is going on, everything will be explained as you go. At the same time, it’s a good alternative for fans who would prefer playing the game over watching the anime or reading the manga. 

However, if one is curious about the anime series, the 2020 remake is available to watch on Crunchyroll. 

Split the Sky

Be aware that Infinity Strash is a departure from the standard Dragon Quest setup. This is not a JRPG with massive worlds to explore and quests to go on. Instead; it’s an action RPG with hack-n-slash combat and a liner progression pathway. While it might not be the game fans are use to, it still fun in it’s own right.

Each stage is split between telling the story and focusing on combat. Stages dedicated to combat will begin with players prepping for the battle. First one can select the members of their party while also giving each character a skill boost with the Bond Memories. At the same time, they can change their gear along with their spells and special attacks.

Combat is the standard hack’n slash with elements of magic and boosted skills. Each level will require players to clear out the enemy or battle the stage boss. Once that is completed, you will be rewarded with loot along with XP that will boost your character. Players could also go back and play these stages to gain more XP and loot. Like I said, it’s not what you may be use to but it’s still fun. Plus; it’s easy to get into, regardless if you’re a fan or not.

The replay value is not just limited to the main story. When the Temple of Recollection opens up, it gives you more to do. This stage allows players to grind their way against waves of enemies while getting access to new gear and acquiring more loot. This is also a great chance to practice your skills and develop your combat style.

Go and Fulfill Your Dreams

One of the first issues I noticed right away is the level design and layout gets repetitive. Infinity Strash is visually mesmerizing with its anime-style design and the dungeons capitalize on this. However, level design and layout don’t evolve beyond a few styles. Unfortunately, gamers will notice it after a few hours of playing. There are a few surprises tossed in but it does little to add a little verity. 

It will also be around this time that the game will start to get a little grindy in regards to leveling up. Even though that is to be expected of an RPG, it’s not executed in a fun way. Instead, do expect to play previous levels for than you care to do. While not the worst offender, it’s still obvious that the leveling up is going to be more of a chore than fun.

Go and Fulfill Your Dreams

Infinity Strash: DRAGON QUEST The Adventure of Dai is an adaptation that fans of either the anime or the series will enjoy. Even though it’s a departure from the standard setup, it has all the defining hallmarks of the series. It has a few shortcomings, but overall it’s an experience that fans will enjoy. 

Disclaimer: FortySeven Communications provided the game used for this review.

This review is the critique and thoughts of one writer. If you want to see how other critics felt then check it out on OpenCritic.

8Bit/Digi is an independent media outlet that provides insight into the gamer community of the San Francisco Bay Area.

Infinity Strash: DRAGON QUEST The Adventure of Dai (PC)

8

Excellent

8.0/10

Pros

• Visually stunning as it brings out the anime style of the series.
• Easy to learn combat and gameplay mechanic.
• Rich in replay value in regards to the main story and the Temple of Recollection.

Cons

• Level design and layout gets repetitive.
• Grind to level up feels more like a chore.