According to Famitsu, Square-Enix has revealed that its enduring Dragon Quest series will be collaborating with Google’s Gemini AI platform on July 30 in Tokyo.
Titled “Gemini Quest,” this experience will unfold across four spots in Tokyo’s Shibuya and Harajuku districts, where attendees will utilize the Gemini app to scan codes with their mobile devices to create spells. These spells can be cast through AR to liberate captured creatures and ultimately conquer the dragon lord.
Those who successfully finish the challenges will have a chance to receive a special physical “mini medal” prize showcasing engravings of classic dragon quest creatures like slimes and killer machines. These items will be distributed by “villager” performers at each of the marked spots. The event will take place at Shibuya 109, MAGNET by Shibuya 109, Tokyo Plaza Harajuku Harakado, and Takeshitaguchi Park. As noted on the event’s official page, there will also be an extra quest available, though more details remain unspecified.
Although physical events are common for a franchise with Dragon Quest’s extensive history, this particular collaboration appears to deepen the connection between the series and Google’s Gemini system. Earlier in April, the Japan-exclusive MMORPG Dragon Quest X announced plans to incorporate an in-game assistant character named Oshaberi Slimey driven by Gemini for player interactions. Franchise creator Yuji Horii expressed excitement about this feature, believing the AI chatbot could serve as “a companion to each individual player,” boosting immersion and giving new life to the nearly-15-year-old MMO.
As expected, the series’ exploration of generative AI has sparked varied reactions from enthusiasts. While some are enthusiastic about the upcoming event, others have voiced disappointment with Square-Enix for adopting the contentious technology, pointing to concerns such as environmental consequences.
On the gaming front, Dragon Quest Monsters: The Withered World is scheduled for release on December 3. Notably, Square-Enix has not indicated any AI involvement in the development of that title, nor the series’ forthcoming main entry Dragon Quest XII.