Yuji Horii Keeps Dragon Quest 12 Details Secret, Promises Hard Work

Dragon Quest creator Yuji Horii has officially confirmed that Dragon Quest 12: The Flames of Fate remains in active development and has not been canceled.

Announced during the franchise’s 35th-anniversary celebration in 2021, Dragon Quest 12 marks the first mainline installment since 2017’s Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age. Since its reveal, updates have been scarce, leaving fans speculating about the game’s status. The last official word came in February, when Horii briefly addressed the project, stating that the team at Square Enix was “working hard” and promising that details would be shared “little by little.”

True to his word, Horii has resurfaced in a recent interview with Gamereactor to reassure fans that development is progressing as planned.

Dragon Quest 12: The Flames of Fate – Official Logo (Released 2021)

“Yes, indeed, I can't say anything, I apologize,” Horii admitted. “I am making it, putting lots of work into it... I can only say that the next work will be great too, [I'm] working really hard. Please look forward to it is the only thing I can say.”

While the update doesn’t include new gameplay footage or screenshots, Horii’s confirmation brings much-needed clarity and reassurance to the fanbase—especially amid concerns sparked by recent restructuring at Square Enix and the prolonged silence surrounding the title.

In May 2024, Horii also reflected on the profound losses of legendary series contributors: character designer Akira Toriyama and composer Koichi Sugiyama. Around the same time, longtime producer Yu Miyake stepped down from his role to lead Square Enix’s mobile division, adding to the uncertainty. Despite these challenges, Horii’s continued involvement signals that Dragon Quest 12 remains a priority and is steadily moving forward.