The best 2D sandbox video games allow deep player choice. Even when specific objectives are present, players can play with unparalleled freedom.

Paired with numerous added mechanics and quality‑of‑life upgrades, these factors establish the games as some of the franchise’s absolute best 2D installments available to handheld RPG fans.

Square Enix popularized the HD-2D visual style with Octopath Traveler, inspiring other developers to create similar JRPGs. Games like Eiyuden Chronicle and Wandering Sword offer unique narratives ...

The new game from Final Fantasy maker Square Enix seemed like a harmless, simple adventure utilizing the HD-2D style refined by Octopath Traveler and remakes for classic RPG series like Dragon Quest.

What's especially unique about this game is that it's played in both 2D and 3D. A video posted to X/Twitter by @ JakeSucky showcases firsthand how the game runs.

You can also combine attack buttons for a super attack, at the cost of some health--which is a mechanic steeped in 2D beat-'em-up history that I absolutely appreciated seeing here again.

The Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D remake is not only beautifying the 1988 classic with an Octopath Traveler-style makeup brush, but it's also apparently expanding the original game's story.