Today, we’re journeying back to the origins of one of the most influential RPG franchises of all time as we explore the Dragon Warrior trilogy in celebration of the anniversary of Dragon Warrior II. We’ll start by uncovering how Dragon Warrior (known as Dragon Quest in North America) emerged from a programming contest and a vision to bring Western-style RPGs to Japanese audiences. Then, we’ll examine how Dragon Warrior II expanded the formula with party-based combat and a larger world, paving the way for Dragon Warrior III, which solidified the series' legacy with new mechanics and a deeper narrative. Finally, we’ll reflect on how these pioneering games shaped the RPG genre and continue to inspire modern titles. So, gather your party and join us for an epic quest on today’s trip down Memory Card Lane.

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Today, we’re diving into the creation of Resident Evil 4, a title that redefined both its franchise and the survival horror genre upon its release on January 11, 2005. We begin by tracing its long development, from multiple abandoned concepts like the fog and Hookman versions to its eventual breakthrough with an over-the-shoulder camera and action-oriented gameplay. We’ll explore how these innovations, along with its intense pacing and new enemies like the Ganado, revolutionized third-person gaming. Finally, we’ll reflect on Resident Evil 4’s enduring legacy, from its influence on iconic franchises like The Last of Us and Dead Space to its continued status as one of the greatest games of all time. So, grab your green herbs and join us as we uncover the story behind this masterpiece on today’s trip down Memory Card Lane.