Tepid Japanese reaction to Dragon Quest 9

Maybe DQ9 going to DS wasn’t such a bright idea, or at least that’s what one can take from a Famitsu poll this week asking the public what they think of the newest installment to Japan’s biggest franchise. The Qs and As:

“Do you welcome Dragon Quest IX on the Nintendo DS?”

  • 40.3 percent say “Yes”
  • 46 percent say “No”
  • 5.2 percent say “Neither”
  • 8.5 percent say “Not sure yet”

“Do you like the idea of action-based battles in a Dragon Quest game?”

  • 6.8 percent say “Neither yes nor no”
  • 19.9 percent say “Not sure yet”
  • 19.4 percent say “Yes”
  • 53.9 percent say “No”

Now asking retailers if they like DQ9 on DS…

  • 45.5 percent say “Yes”
  • 22.5 percent say “Neither”
  • 10 percent say “Not sure yet”
  • 20 percent say “No”

…or action-based battles.

  • 15 percent say “Yes”
  • 32.4 percent say “Not sure yet”
  • 12.5 percent say “Neither”
  • 40 percent say “No”

Ouch. This level of apathy and negativity baffles even me, yet i have the feeling they’ll still buy 3 copies for each relative. Click through for more mind-bending distaste.