Dragon Quest has drama CDs for every game (except for VII...at least, as of the time that this review was written), as well as one for Torneko's Adventure. After having heard one (the first one), what would be the point of having any more? If you don't know Japanese, it's basically the same thing right? Wrong.

First of all, the artwork is great. The 48-page artbook that comes with the drama CD is such a huge plus, it's almost worth purchasing on its own (if it existed on its own). Then, the newly-arranged music (note: arranged by Hayato Matsuo? I'm as surprised as you, but that's what it says in the book)...the new synth and live instruments make the drama one exciting CD. Plus, at 74 minutes, a full-length CD, how could you go wrong? It's such a neat little collection!

And it's not too pricy. Recently, one can find this CD here and there on auctions for about $20 (including large S&H; prices for its awkward size). If you're tired of the same ol' Symphonic Suite on Piano on Electone stuff, check these out!

Reviewed by: Patrick Gann