The Dragon Quest 40th anniversary event in Harajuku features a VR ride where participants mount a killer panther in a 360-degree adventure. The press preview revealed a setup using Meta Quest 3 headsets and a pre-show briefing, with groups of up to 16 experiencing the ride simultaneously.
The Dragon Quest 40th Anniversary Exhibition "Dragon Quest the DIVE -A Journey to an Unseen Adventure-" opens July 17 at Tokyu Plaza Harajuku "Harakado" in Tokyo, running through September 6. Organized by Tohokushinsha Film Corporation and Square Enix, the event centers on the "Dragon Quest VR RIDE," an immersive attraction using Meta Quest 3 headsets and motion seats that simulates riding a Killer Panther through the series' world. Creator Yuji Horii called the VR experience "real" and said the immersion is "incredible." Voice actress Yui Ogura voiced the guide character Homita, recording with ad-libs and attention to presence. Beyond the VR ride, the exhibition includes interactive exhibits such as the "Mirror of Ra," which reflects visitors as monsters using face tracking, and a "Thrilling Treasure Chest" that randomly reveals items. On the 2nd floor, the "40th Anniversary Exhibition 'How Dragon Quest Was Born'" displays never-before-seen development materials from the first game, including producer's notes. A collaboration restaurant runs on the 5th floor. Tickets are 3,800 yen for adults on weekdays and 4,000 yen on weekends and holidays. An Osaka venue is planned for early spring 2027.
Tohokushinsha Film and Square Enix revealed new details for the Dragon Quest 40th Anniversary Exhibition "Dragon Quest the DIVE -To the Stage of an Unseen Adventure-", including the immersive VR ride, two exhibition contents, and a full lineup of original merchandise.