Essential Tips: Prologue

Get a head start in Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age — Definitive Edition with these essential prologue tips. Learn about saving, Draconian Mode, crafting, and more!

Hey there! So, you're diving into the world of Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age — Definitive Edition? Awesome! It's a massive adventure, and like any good RPG, there are definitely some smart ways to get ahead right from the start. Think of this as your friendly nudge in the right direction before you even really get going. We'll cover some key things to keep in mind so you can make the most of your journey!

Essential Tips to Get You Started:

• Save Regularly! Seriously, don't forget this. While Dragon Quest XI is pretty good about auto-saving when you move between areas, it's always best to make use of those churches you'll find. If you're out in the wild, just moving between zones will trigger an auto-save, so keep an eye out for those transitions.
• Only use Draconian Mode if you’re experienced! When you start a new game, you'll see options for 'Draconian Mode'. Some of these modifiers can be fun, like making enemies tougher, but others, like the 'No Armor' challenge, are probably best saved for a second playthrough when you really know your stuff. Stick to the basics for your first go!
• Only buy what you need! Money is always tight in RPGs, right? As you progress, you'll need to keep your party geared up. Early on, figure out a character's playstyle and only snag weapons that fit. For instance, if your Hero is all about Greatswords, don't waste your Gold on a Shield for them.
• Save your Pep Powers for when you need it! Once you've got a bigger party, you can get strategic with Pep Powers. If a character is 'Pepped up' and you need them to stay that way for a specific quest or boss, you can actually swap them out of the active party, and they'll keep that Pep state! Super handy for those moments when you need multiple party members Pepped simultaneously.
• Make a beeline for Hustle Dance! Among all the skills Sylvando can learn, Hustle Dance is a must-have. You'll find it in the Showmanship skill tree, and trust me, it's your best bet for reliable party healing for a good chunk of the game. Prioritize unlocking it!
• Make use of Crafting! Don't sleep on the crafting system! You'll find recipe books scattered throughout the world, and using them to craft equipment is often the best way to get upgrades. Plus, it can save you a ton of Gold compared to buying everything. And the best part? You can even reforge existing weapons to make them even stronger!
• Talk to everyone! This is classic Dragon Quest advice. Every single NPC you meet has something to say, and often it's helpful information, hints, or just fun flavor text. Take a moment to chat with everyone you encounter; you never know what you might learn!