How to Control Characters in Battle in Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake

In the early Dragon Quest games, it followed the JRPG tradition of not being able to directly control your allies immediately. Instead, tactics would be selected. However, you can tell them what to do. Here’s how to control party members by telling characters to follow orders in battle in Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake.

How do I get characters in my party to follow orders in battle in Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake?

I recommend doing this after you first add new characters to your party. I made a whole slew of about 10 people right away, picked three to start, and then stepped outside. When you do, bring up the main menu. You want to scroll down to Tactics. There, you’ll see if party members are set to “Follow Orders” in Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake or if the characters aren’t under your direct control when you enter a battle.

The default for all characters who aren’t your protagonist is “Fight Wisely.” This is a balanced approach. However, both in a fight or from the menu, you can also choose “Show No Mercy,” “Focus on Healing,” “Don’t Use MP,” “Watch My Back,” and “Follow Orders.” The one you want to pick if you want to decide every action in battle is “Follow Orders.”

However, the others can be handy. “Show No Mercy” makes someone go all out, ignoring things like MP or items. “Focus on Healing” will have a character heal the second someone is hurt and prioritize keeping everyone alive. “Don’t Use MP” will preserve your MP stash, while still allowing other types of attacks and item usage. “Watch My Back” makes them protect your character.

I strongly suggest using the “Follow Orders” tactic for an optimal experience, however.

Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake is available on the Nintendo Switch, PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC.