There a review on IGN of Dragon Quest 5. Here's the link
http://ds.ign.com/articles/953/953411p1.html
Dragon Quest V is a must-play RPG, pure and simple. By extension, that means that Dragon Quest V: Hand of the Heavenly Bride is also a must-play RPG, though I can’t help but wish we were getting it sooner than 17 years late, and with a bit more fanfare and polish. The core game is simply incredible, offering some of the best story, gameplay, and customization available in the Super NES era, and most of the DQ series to boot. The DS version is the only one we’ve got, and while I wouldn’t go as far as to call it the definitive version without having a chance to experience the original, the updated script is very well done, things like the fan-missed party chat option (removed from DQIV on DS) is now back, and the sheer amount of impressive gameplay found in the nearly doubled in size monster battle system is immense. The 3D design is great, the presentation is top notch, holding up what was originally done with the Super Famicom version and amplified by the PS2 remake in Japan. There are still issues with the game as a current-day DS title though, such a very plain interface, a bland top screen during battles, and an archaic menu system that really makes the game feel dated. The source material for this one is nothing short of amazing, and hands-down one of the best classic RPGs ever created. The DS conversion of that source material – while still very commendable – could have been even better after seeing some of Square’s other works on the platform. With that being said, DQV: Hand of the Heavenly Bride is a must-own game for anyone that calls themselves an RPG fan – it’s just that good.
| 8.0 | Presentation You’ll get the same bland interface as with DQIV on DS, but the source material this time around is stronger. The storytelling, imagery, foreshadowing, and scene design is very well done. |
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| 8.0 | Graphics The HUD work is simple, but a lot of the character animations are very well done, and the varied environments and story-supported scenery in DQV allows for a lot more variation. |
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| 9.0 | Sound Classic DQ themes are mixed with a few great orchestrated pieces, and the original DQV soundtrack is simply beautiful. Great source material, and a nice DS conversion. |
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| 9.0 | Gameplay The game feels great. The only downside is the dated item system and for some, random battles. The core game is amazing, though very traditional as well. |
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| 9.5 | Lasting Appeal You won’t find online or any amazing new modes, but the monster training has nearly doubled in size, with all monsters and items taking 100+ hours to unlock for the most devoted fans. |
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| 8.9 |
OVERALL (out of 10 / not an average) |
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