Documented for this version

Which controls does this version use?

Actions

Dragon Warrior II action controls
Arrow Keys
Move the character or cursor
A
Open the command menu, confirm choices, talk, search, or interact
B
Cancel a menu selection or close a menu

Control notes

  • The NES controller's directional pad is used for movement and menu navigation.

How it plays

How does Dragon Warrior II play?

The game uses a first-person command-based battle view and a top-down exploration map. Players move between towns, towers, caves, and castles, speaking with residents, searching objects, opening doors, and collecting key items.

The party begins with the Prince of Midenhall and later gains the Prince of Cannock and Princess of Moonbrooke. Turn-based battles award experience and gold; leveling, weapons, armor, spells, and consumable items determine survival. The ship and later travel options expand access to the world, while key events unlock new regions and the final dungeon.

Plan your run

What is the best way to play Dragon Warrior II?

Explore every newly accessible town before pushing onward. Upgrade weapons and armor frequently, and keep enough healing items for long routes between inns.

The party's roles are specialized. Protect the Prince of Cannock and Princess of Moonbrooke, whose lower durability makes them vulnerable to powerful enemy attacks. Save the Princess's strongest spells for difficult encounters, and treat the final dungeon as an endurance challenge: map its paths, carry antidotes and leaves of life, and return to town whenever supplies run low.

Meet the cast

Who are the key characters?

1

Prince of Midenhall

The game's main hero and the strongest physical fighter. He cannot cast spells but leads the quest against Hargon.

2

Prince of Cannock

A balanced party member who combines physical attacks with healing and offensive magic.

3

Princess of Moonbrooke

A spell-focused companion who joins after Moonbrooke is destroyed and its curse is lifted.

4

Hargon

The central antagonist, a sorcerer who seeks to destroy the kingdoms through dark magic.

5

Malroth

A destructive deity summoned by Hargon and fought at the climax of the adventure.

Before you begin

What should you know before playing?

  1. 1

    Talk to residents repeatedly after major story events; new clues and travel routes can appear.

  2. 2

    Use the ship to systematically check islands and coastlines rather than wandering randomly.

  3. 3

    Save money for upgraded equipment, especially for Cannock and Moonbrooke.

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