Dragon Quest X requires Internet connection after introductory hours

In a short but explosive Dragon Quest X blow-out, we learn of its always-on Internet requirement, the possibility of subscriptions, parallel development on the NES of all things, and hear an impassioned defence from Smash Bros. designer Masahiro Sakurai.

Andriasang reports the latest entry in the long running Enix series will not only support online features alá Monster Hunter - it's going to need you to be online at all times.

Despite assurances to the contrary yesterday, Square Enix posted an FAQ confirming you won't get far without an Internet-ready console:

"Is it not possible to play without an internet connection. It's possible to play offline for the first few hours after the start of the game. However, to play all elements of the game, an internet connection is required."

Moreover, you might have to pay for the privilege - in a post on the game's website, translated by Andriasang, mention is made of "usage fees" in addition to cover price.

Although online gaming is popular in Japan, it isn't always appreciated in traditional single-player franchises like Dragon Quest, Super Smash Bros. designer Masahiro Sakurai urged fans to move with the time.

"After hearing that it's online, the number of people who say the classic style Dragon Quest would be better is probably not low," he said.

"However, in a game industry where evolution and sudden changes are tolerated, even considered expected, just treading the same path would be be troubling. It's being made by people who've made sound titles in the past, so I'm greatly looking forward to it."

Dragon Quext X will release on both Wii and Wii U with a spin-off on 3DS, but for those who refuse to embrace the future, there's always the retro option, as Square Enix will apparently also produce a NES version.

This might be a joke - although Andriasang speculates it may have something to do with a USB memory device to be bundled with the game when it launches in Japan next year.