After much waiting, Dragon Quest fans in Japan finally have a solid
release date for the next game in the series, Dragon Quest X. Publisher
Square Enix has announced that the Wii title will be out on shelves on
August 2 in Japan.
The standard version will be sold for ¥6,980 ($86) while the bundle
containing a USB memory card will cost ¥8,980 ($111). If gamers are to
buy the standard version, they will need to use their own USB memory
card with at least 16GB inside.
Since Dragon Quest X is a subscription-based game, both versions will
come with 20 days of free online play. The subscription fee plan is as
follows: ¥1,000 ($12) for 30 days, ¥1,950 ($24) for 60 days, and ¥2,900
($35) for 90 days. Payment can be made either by credit card or by using
Wii points via Nintendo points cards. Players will be able to create up
to three characters per account.
Square Enix will also host a "Kids Time" program where children can play
Dragon Quest X for free for a specific period of time. There is no word
on the previously announced Wii U version of the game at this point in
time, or North American or European release dates.