More than a decade after the original 9th Dawn debuted on mobile, Valorware returns with 9th Dawn Remake, a top-down RPG that brings the classic experience into a more modern context an onto new platforms. It’s been a long road since the series’ humble beginnings, and with the remake promising new visuals, updated gameplay systems, and a world of dungeons to conquer, there was good reason to be intrigued – especially considering the original’s cult status. The PlayStation 5 version features local and online co-op, minigames, and a retooled narrative. But does it live up to the status of the mobile game?
Set in the realm of Montelorne, 9th Dawn Remake drops you into a land where monsters run rampant and a mysterious evil brews at the Castle of Maltyr. It’s a serviceable premise, carried more by its gameplay loop than any riveting storytelling. While the narrative has seen some rewriting from the original, it still plays more of a background role, acting as a thin thread to justify the endless cycle of dungeoneering and loot hunting. That said, the world itself is surprisingly rich in locations, quests, and lore snippets for those who take the time to explore.
Gameplay is where 9th Dawn Remake hits its stride. The core loop of exploring over 45 handcrafted dungeons, battling swarms of enemies, and hoarding loot is undeniably satisfying. The sheer volume of content is impressive, and the combat – though simple in execution – remains engaging thanks to a wide range of spells, weapons, and abilities you can unlock. There’s a lot of flexibility here, whether you want to go in swinging a giant sword or strategically pick off enemies with ranged attacks before moving in closer. The added ability to raise monster pets offers another layer of tactical depth, especially in tougher encounters.
However, the depth and openness of the game can be a double-edged sword. The UI can be clunky, and there’s little hand-holding, which might frustrate newer players or those expecting a more streamlined RPG experience. Still, fans of old-school design will likely appreciate this no-nonsense approach. The controls on PS5 are responsive for the most part, though navigating menus and inventories still feels like something built around a PC or mobile mindset that hasn’t been entirely reworked for consoles.
Visually, the remake stays true to its roots with pixel art that leans more toward retro charm than spectacle. The environments are functional but rarely striking, and animations, while improved over the original, remain fairly rudimentary. Still, the consistency of the visual style gives the game a unique identity that fits its retro ambitions. The soundtrack is understated but pleasant, and the ambient effects contribute to a sense of atmosphere, especially in dungeon segments. There’s nothing groundbreaking on the audiovisual front, but it gets the job done.
What elevates 9th Dawn Remake is how much it offers beyond the main campaign. There are side quests galore, a surprisingly addictive card-based minigame, and even a fishing mode that plays like an arcade brawler with worms as warriors. It’s a bit bizarre, but undeniably fun, and helps the game carve out its own quirky identity. The inclusion of online and local co-op also dramatically increases its value – this is a game that shines when shared with a friend.
Ultimately, 9th Dawn Remake is a love letter to the series’ origins and to classic RPG fans who value depth and content over polish. It has rough edges, particularly in its UI and visuals, and its story won’t linger in your memory – but it more than makes up for it with sheer content and gameplay variety. Whether you’re battling beasts, exploring dungeons, collecting pets, or chasing down card combos, this is a game that gives back as much as you’re willing to invest.
Score: 7.6/10
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