Square Enix will launch Dragon Quest Monsters: The Withered World on December 3 for Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Xbox Series X. The game blends turn-based RPG combat with monster-collecting mechanics, featuring over 500 monsters.
Players step into the roles of younger versions of Bianca and Nera from Dragon Quest V. Their quest begins after both their fathers fall ill to a mysterious ailment, prompting a journey to find rare medicinal ingredients. Gameplay centers on creating and refining a party of four monsters, with a synthesis system allowing for the creation of stronger creatures with specific skills. Some monsters can only be obtained through synthesis, and particularly rare ones may require a four-way merger.
The Withered World will also include online multiplayer, enabling players to compete against others globally and team up in squads of four for battles against giant monsters.
Editions and Pre-Order Bonuses
Three editions of The Withered World will be available: Standard Edition ($59.99), Digital Deluxe Edition ($94.99), and Collector's Edition ($219.99).
The Digital Deluxe Edition bundles all four planned DLC packs. These packs can also be purchased individually. The DLC includes the Mega Mole Hole, adding dungeons with previously encountered monsters; Monster Marathons, a mini-game for earning crafting items, experience, and gold; the Metallic Ring, an item to farm experience by transforming monsters into metal slimes and their variants; and the Scout Run VIP Card, offering special perks for the game's Scout Run feature.
The Collector's Edition includes a physical copy of the game, all Digital Deluxe DLC items, six collectible figurines, a Slime pouch, and a Dragon Quest-themed cleaning cloth.
Pre-orders for any edition of The Withered World will include in-game consumables: an Adventure Starter Set containing Monster Munchies, Bonus Balls, and Seeds of Skill, along with a Hearty Meat Set featuring Monster Munchies, Smoked Sirloins, and Meaty Treats.