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{{Character
'''Erdrick''' (ロト, ''Roto'') is a recurring title awarded to legendary heroes from the {{Main Series}} series, and specifically the playable characters of {{Dragon Quest III}} and {{XI}}. The first three {{Main Series}} games are called the "[[Erdrick Trilogy]]", as each relate to the character of Erdrick in some way.  Although they do not appear in {{I}} or {{II}}, Erdrick is mentioned heavily in the game dialog and many items bear their name.
|Name= Erdrick
|Game= ''[[Dragon Quest III]]''
|Image=[[Image:Hero3male.png|300px]]
[[Image:Hero3female.png|250px]]
|Sprite=[[Image:Dq3hero-sprite-NES.gif|32px|class=pixels]]<!--2:1 from 16x16-->
|home = [[Aliahan]]
|beginstats =
|appearances= ''[[Dragon Quest III]]''<br>''[[Dragon Quest Monster Battle Road: Victory]]''
|Title=
|Japanese name=ロト
|Roumaji=Roto
|Race=Human
|Age=16
|Family=[[Ortega]] (father)
|Voice Actor  = [[Hikaru Midorikawa]] ([[Dragon Quest III CD Theater|CD Theater]])
}}


'''Erdrick''' (ロト ''Roto''), also known as '''Loto''' or '''Roto''', is a recurring legendary hero from the ''[[Dragon Quest (series)|Dragon Quest]]'' series, and specifically the playable character of ''[[Dragon Quest III]]''. The first three ''[[Dragon Quest]]'' games are called the "Erdrick Trilogy", as each relate to the character of Erdrick in some way.  Although he/she does not appear in ''[[Dragon Quest]]'' or ''[[Dragon Quest II]]'', Erdrick is mentioned heavily in the game dialog and many items bear his/her name. The hero of ''[[Dragon Quest III]]'', which takes place prior to the previous two games, receives the Erdrick title at the end of the adventure.
The name Erdrick is referenced in many of the later main {{Main Series}} games, as well as some spin-offs. Due to the name being exclusively used in association with the protagonist of {{III}} for several decades, the title was treated as the character's name by both fans and media. With the arrival of {{XI}}, this connection has steadily lessened and the term Erdrick has become a title of status independent of any particular character.


Erdrick is referenced in many of the later main ''Dragon Quest'' games, as well as some spin-offs.  The character of Erdrick is often representative of the early ''Dragon Quest'' games.
For the two characters who received this title, see:
 
*[[Hero (Dragon Quest III)]]
==Background==
*[[Luminary (Dragon Quest XI)]]
In ''[[Dragon Quest III]]'', the hero, who may be either male or female, departs from their home, [[Aliahan]], on their sixteenth birthday in order to follow in the footsteps of the brave warrior and the hero's father, [[Ortega]], to  defeat the [[Demon Lord|archfiend]] [[Baramos]].  After defeating Baramos, the hero returns victorious to [[Aliahan]] only to be confronted by a new nemesis, [[Zoma]]. Taking up a new quest to defeat [[Zoma]], the hero travels through the [[Great Pit of Giaga]] to [[Alefgard]], which is sealed in darkness.


==Origins of Title==
==Origins of Title==
At the end of ''[[Dragon Quest III]]'' the King of [[Alefgard]] bestows upon the hero '''''The Order of Erdrick''''', the country’s highest honor reserved only for true heroes.  This implies ''Erdrick'' is a title rather than the hero's actual name.  The hero is referred to by this title in all references outside of Dragon Quest III.
At the end of {{III}} the King of [[Alefgard]] bestows upon the hero '''''the Order of Erdrick''''', the country’s highest honor reserved only for true heroes.  This implies that there have been several Erdricks throughout history.  The hero is referred to by this title in all references outside of {{Dragon Quest III}}.
 
Attempting to name the hero "Erdrick" in ''Dragon Quest III'' for the NES will generate a message requesting the player to enter their real name; however, if a space is added at the end, the warning message will not be displayed and the game may be played with the hero being named "Erdrick ".
 
In the manga series, ''Dragon Quest: [[The Emblem of Roto]]'', as well as the novelization and the CD theater drama, the hero's real name is '''Arel''' (アレル). This adds to the implication that Erdrick/Roto is a title.
 
==Lineage==
In ''[[Dragon Quest]]'', Erdrick was the ancestor of [[Hero (Dragon Quest)|The Hero]].  The hero follows in the footsteps of Erdrick to ultimately reach [[Charlock Castle]] and confront the [[Dragonlord]].
 
In ''[[Dragon Quest II]]'', the heroes are descendants of Erdrick, and also of the hero from ''[[Dragon Quest]]''.
 
In ''[[Dragon Quest III]]'', the origins of the hero Erdrick are revealed; therefore, the chronological order of the first three games is III, I, II.
 
Originally known as Erdrick to many North Americans, the hero is also known by two other names: Roto and Loto. In the original Japanese version games (i.e. [[Dragon Quest]]), Erdrick is known exclusively by the name '''Roto''', which is also used by some import gamers. Another romanization of the name is '''Loto''', which was used in place of Erdrick when [[Enix|Enix America, Inc.]] re-released ''Dragon Quest I, II, and III'' on the [[Game Boy]] Color.  This was most likely used because the Japanese language does not distinguish between ''R'' and ''L''.


When ''[[Dragon Quest IX: Sentinels of the Starry Skies]]'' was released in North America and Europe, the name '''Erdrick''' was once again used to refer to the legendary hero of ''[[Dragon Quest III]]'', effectively returning to the original English localization from the NES era.
Attempting to name the hero "Erdrick" in {{III}} for the {{NES}} will generate a message requesting the player to enter their real name; however, if a space is added at the end, the warning message will not be displayed and the game may be played with the hero being named "Erdrick ". The same restriction applies in the Japanese versions for Roto as well, both in kanji and hiragana.


In the ending sequence of {{XI}}, the {{Luminary}} is bestowed the title of Erdrick for saving the land of Erdrea from [[Calasmos]]. As the game contains several homages to past titles, the connection of III and XI (if any) is up to player interpretation.


==Base Stats==
In the real-world Old English language, the word "eard" means "world," while "-ric" is a common suffix for names translating to "ruler." Thus, "Erdrick" can be said to mean "ruler of the world."
''NES Version''
{| style="width:65%; height:100px; text-align:center" border="1"  
|-<---!Headings are up first.!---> style="font-weight:bold; background:#A3AB47"
| Attribute || Starting Stats || Maximum Stats
|- style="font-weight:normal"
| Level || 1 || 99
|-
| HP || 15 || 446
|-
| MP || 6 || 218
|-
| Strength || 8 || 181
|-
| Agility || 6 || 156
|-
| Resilience || 7 || 244
|-
| Wisdom || 6 || 126
|-
| Luck || 5 || 157
|-
| Initial gear ||colspan=2|[[Cypress stick]], [[Plain clothes]]
|}


==Spells==
==Localization history==
Erdrick is a term invented for the North American release of the original trilogy. In the original Japanese version games Erdrick is known exclusively by the name '''Roto'''--this is written in runes on the shield bearing the name in official art. Another romanization of the name is '''Loto''', which was used in place of Erdrick when [[Enix|Enix America, Inc.]] re-released ''Dragon Quest I, II, and III'' on the [[Game Boy]] Color.  This was done due to the space constraints of the Game Boy's screen, with the "L" being chosen for unknown reasons.


{| style="width:65%; height:100px; text-align:center" border="1"
When {{DQ9}} was released in North America and Europe, the name Erdrick was once again used to refer to the legendary {{Hero 3}} of {{Dragon Quest III}}, effectively returning to the original English localization from the {{NES}} era.
|-<---!Headings are up first.!---> style="font-weight:bold; background:#439CD0"
| Level Learned || Original Japanese || GBC Localization || Modern Localization || MP || Description
|- style="font-weight:normal"
| 2 || メラ  ''Mera'' || Blaze || [[Frizz]] || 2 || A simple fire spell; affects one enemy. 
|-
| 4 || ホイミ ''Hoimi'' || Heal || [[Heal]] || 3 || A simple healing spell.
|-
| 6 || ニフラム ''Nifuramu'' || Expel || [[Poof]] || 2 || Blows away weak enemies.
|-
| 8 || ルーラ ''Ruura'' || Return || [[Zoom]] || 8 || Instantaneous travel to a previously visited location.
|-
| 10 || ギラ ''Gira'' || Firebal || [[Sizz]] || 4 || A weak fire spell that affects a group of enemies.
|-
| 12 || アストロン ''Asutoron'' || Ironize || [[Kaclang]] || 6 || Makes the hero immune to all enemy attacks for a short period of time.
|-
| 14 || リレミト ''Riremito'' || Outside || [[Evac]] || 8 || Exit a cave with this spell.
|-
| 17 || ラリホー ''Rarihoo'' || Sleep || [[Snooze]] || 3 || May put a group of enemies to sleep. 
|-
| 19 || マホトーン ''Mahotoon'' || StopSpell || [[Fizzle]] || 3 || Try to block the enemies' spell.
|-
| 19 || トヘロス ''Toherosu'' || Repel || [[Holy Protection]] || 4 || Causes weak enemies to leave you alone.
|-
| 24 || ベギラマ ''Begirama'' || Firebane || [[Sizzle]] || 6 || This fire spell affects a group of enemies.
|-
| 26 || ライデイン ''Raidein'' || Zap || [[Zap]] || 8 || Affects one enemy; the first lightning type spell.
|-
| 29 || ベホイミ ''Behoimi'' || Healmore || [[Midheal]] || 5 || A stronger form of Heal.
|-
| 31 || イオラ ''Iora'' || Boom || [[Boom]] || 9 || Damages all targets with a powerful explosion.
|-
| 33 || ベホマ ''Behoma'' || Healall ||[[Fullheal]] || 7 || Restores an ally to full health.
|-
| 35 || ザオラル ''Zaoraru'' || Vivify || [[Zing]] || 10 || 50% chance to revive a deceased party member.
|-
| 38 || ベホマズン ''Behomazun'' || Healusall || [[Omniheal]] || 62 || Restores the party to full health.
|-
| 41 || ギガデイン ''Gigadein'' || Thordain || [[Kazap]] || 30 || Causes around 200 points of electrical damage to all enemies.
|}


==Items Bearing the Name Erdrick==
==Items Iconography==
In the [[Nintendo Entertainment System]] versions of ''[[Dragon Quest]]'', several items that once belonged to the hero have Erdrick in their names.
In {{I}} and {{II}}, there are several items that bear Erdrick as a part of their names. See the ''[[Erdrick Equipment]]'' article for more detail.


====Erdrick’s sword====
====[[Erdrick's Sword]]====
''Main article: [[Erdrick's sword]]''<br>
Also know as the Sword of kings, this is the most powerful sword in {{I}} and {{III}}. The sword is not the most powerful in {{XI}}, but boasts an incredibly high {{Attack}} bonus nonetheless.
This is the most powerful sword in ''[[Dragon Quest]]'' and ''[[Dragon Quest III]]''. Other names for this sword include Sword of Erdrick (''[[Dragon Quest II]]'') and Sword of Kings (''[[Dragon Quest III]]'').


====Erdrick’s Armour====
====[[Erdrick's Armour]]====
The most powerful armour in ''[[Dragon Quest]]'', which protects against the hit point damage from poison swamps and barriers.  It is also known as Armour of Erdrick in ''[[Dragon Quest II]]'' and as Auroral Armour in ''[[Dragon Quest III]]''.
The most powerful armour in the original trilogy, which protects against the damage from poison swamps and barriers, and restores {{HP}} while walking.  It is also known as Armour of Erdrick in {{II}} and as [[Auroral Armour]] in {{III}}.


====The Shield of Erdrick====
====[[Erdrick's Shield]]====
The Hero's Shield was discovered in the [[Nail Mark]].  This is the name found in ''[[Dragon Quest II]]''.  It is called the Shield of Erdrick only in ''[[Dragon Quest III]]'', as it does not exist in ''[[Dragon Quest]]''.
The [[Hero's Shield]] is the name found in {{III}}.  It is called the Shield of Erdrick only in {{II}}, as it does not exist in {{I}}.


====The Helmet of Erdrick====
====[[Erdrick's Helmet]]====
This item exists only in ''[[Dragon Quest II]]'', as there is no specific helm referred to as such in ''[[Dragon Quest III]]''. In the remakes the player can acquire ''[[Ortega's helmet]]'', which bears a distinct similarity to Erdrick's helmet from ''II''.  
This item exists only in {{Dragon Quest II}}, as there is no specific helm referred to as such in {{III}}. In the remakes the player can acquire ''[[Ortega's Helm]]'', which bears a distinct similarity to Erdrick's helmet from {{II}}.


====[[Emblem of Erdrick|Erdrick’s Emblem]]====
====[[Mark of Erdrick]]====
An object which proves the hero's lineage in ''[[Dragon Quest]]'', which is found in a swamp south of [[Cantlin]]. In ''III'', the emblem is referred to as the [[Sacred amulet]].
An object which proves the {{Hero 1}}'s lineage in {{I}}, which is found in a swamp south of [[Cantlin]]. In {{III}}, the emblem is referred to as the [[Sacred amulet]].


====Erdrick's Tablet====
====[[Erdrick's Tablet]]====
A message written in stone by Erdrick in ''[[Dragon Quest III]]'' and left for the hero in ''[[Dragon Quest]]''.  It gives instructions on what items are needed to reach the Isle of Dragons, which is the location of [[Charlock Castle]].  The tablet is found in a cave called [[Erdrick's Cave]].
A message written in stone by the {{Hero 3}} of {{Dragon Quest III}}, and left for the {{Hero 1}} in ''[[Dragon Quest]]''.  It gives instructions on what items are needed to reach the Isle of Dragons, which is the location of [[Charlock Castle]].  The tablet is found in a cave north of Tantegel castle, called [[Erdrick's Cave]].


<center><gallery>
<center><gallery>
File:DQ Erdricks Sword.png|Erdrick's Sword
DQ Erdricks Sword.png|[[Erdrick's Sword]]
Image:ErdrickArmor.png|Erdrick's Armour
ErdrickArmor.png|[[Erdrick's Armour]]
File:DQII Erdricks Shield.png|Erdrick's Shield
DQII Erdricks Shield.png|[[Erdrick's Shield]]
Image:ErdrickHelmet.png|Erdrick's Helmet
ErdrickHelmet.png|[[Erdrick's Helmet]]
File:DQ I NES Erdrick's Token.png|Erdrick's Emblem
DQII Erdricks Emblem.png|[[Mark of Erdrick|Erdrick's Emblem]]
File:DW1 ErdricksTablet.png|Erdrick's Tablet
DW1 ErdricksTablet.png|[[Erdrick's Tablet]]
</gallery></center>
</gallery></center>


==Other References to Erdrick==
==Other References to Erdrick==
*In the opening scene of ''[[Dragon Quest V]]'', the protagonist's father, Pankraz, suggests the name "Madason" for his son. His wife, Madalena, disagrees, and suggests the name which the player entered. If the player already entered the name "Madason", Pankraz will suggest "Erdrick" instead.
*In the opening scene of {{Dragon Quest V}}, the protagonist's father, [[Pankraz]], suggests the name "{{Madason}}" for his son. His wife, [[Madalena]], disagrees, and suggests the name which the player entered. If the player already entered the name "{{Madason}}", [[Pankraz]] will suggest "Erdrick" instead.
*In the US translation of ''[[Dragon Quest VI]]'' ([[Nintendo DS]] Version), an [[Non-Player Character|NPC]] in [[Gallows Moor]] goes by the name of Erdrick.
*In the US translation of {{Dragon Quest VI}} ([[Nintendo DS]] and [[Cell phone]] Version), an {{NPC}} in [[Gallows Moor]] goes by the name of Erdrick.
*In ''[[Dragon Quest IX]]'' the set of legendary armaments are referred to as Erdrick's, and not Loto's, reversing the localization change from the [[Game Boy]] Color remake of ''Dragon Quest III''.
*In the original ''[[Final Fantasy]]'', a role-playing game produced by [[Square]], there is a grave for Erdrick in the cemetery of the Elf village (in the remakes and the original Japanese version of Final Fantasy, the grave belongs to Nintendo's Link).
*In the original ''Final Fantasy'', a role playing game produced by [[Square]], there is a grave for Erdrick (in the remakes, and the original Japanese version of Final Fantasy, the name is Link).
*Erdrick's sword is obtainable ''Final Fantasy XII''. It's the third-strongest weapon in the game and has the highest combo rate, but it's also the slowest. In the Japanese version, it's called the Toro Sword, Toro being Roto backwards. The English localization named it "Wyrmhero Blade", which is a synonym for "Dragon Warrior". Other localizations kept the original name, and it happens to mean "Sword of the Bull" in Spanish and Italian.
*Erdrick's sword is wielded by a mark in ''Final Fantasy XII''. It is referred to as the "Wyrmhero Blade" (In the Japanese version, it's called the Tolo Sword).
*In the demo for ''[[Dragon Quest Builders]]'', the player's default name is "Buildrick".
*The manga series ''Gintama'' has a parody of ''Dragon Quest'' which starts [http://gintama.wikia.com/wiki/Leukocyte_King Leukocyte King], a character based on Edrick.
*In ''[[Fortune Street]]'', if certain characters are on the [[Alefgard]] board, they will refer to Erdrick either by name or indirect reference:
 
**"Just one time only, I wish to fight in battle with legendary hero, Erdrick." ([[Alena]])
==See also==
**"The restful place from legendary hero Erdrick. I am with wish that there was opportunity to meet him." ([[Kiryl]])
*[[Aliahan clothes]]
**"Maybe the hero was a bit like my big brother, Alistair. You know, just maybe." ([[Jessica Albert]])
 
**"Oh, yeah! The home of the legendary hero! That sounds like the sort of person who should be on my list of clients. Can someone invite him over?" ([[Patty]])
==Gallery==
**"... A legendary hero? If he's such a legend, maybe he should take my place while I'm out to lunch!" ([[Stella]])
<center><gallery>
**"My anslurpstors fought alongside the legendary hero from here. I bet they were really stout!" ([[Slime]])
File:Erdrick_Wayfarers_Clothes.png|
**"This place has got some legendary hero, huh? I'm acquainted wid a hero myself as it happens. ... Some mortal schmoo who's always gettin' in our way!" ([[Platypunk]])
File:Erdrick and Monsters.png|
**"I guess Erdrick is the big cheese around these parts! I tip my hat to you, legendary hero!" (Mario)
File:DQIII_Characters.png|
**"Whoa! [[Alefgard]]! I want to meet the legendary dragon warrior Erdrick! But I forgot my camera! Wah-hah!" (Toad)
File:DQIII Mutsumi Inomata.png|Art by Mutsumi Inomata
**"Yoshi Yoshi! (Erdrick may be the big hero in these parts, but Mario is the bestest hero in the galaxy!)" (Yoshi)
File:Mutsumi Inomata DQIII novel art.png|Art by Mutsumi Inomata
**"Yoo hoo! Oh, hero-man! Won't you come and rescue me? I'm helpless when it comes to rolling the die!" (Birdo)
File:Erdrick Leather Hat.png|Wearing a [[Leather hat|leather hat]]
**"What’s all this talk about a legendary hero? Is Mario already famous out here? Legendary hero, my spiny shell!" (Bowser)
File:DQ Monster Storybook DQIII group.png|''Dragon Quest Monster Storybook''
**"Legendary hero, shmegendary hero! My dad’s way braver than any ol’ hero!" (Bowser Jr.)
File:dq3hero-dqv.jpg|As seen in the ''Monster Battle Road'' series
**"Ooo? Ook ook! (This is the place to find hotshot heroes, huh? Well, you’re looking at one!)" (Donkey Kong)
File:DQMBR Heroes.png|''Dragon Quest: Monster Battle Road'' (third from right)
**"Oookie? Ookity ook! (This place is famous for a legendary hero? Hey, that's what I want to be one day!)" (Diddy Kong)
File:DQMBRV Erdrick.png|''Dragon Quest: Monster Battle Road Victory''
**"Huh? Who cares about some legendary hero? The only legend you need to know about is the legend of WARIO!" (Wario)
Image:DQ3Herosofubi.jpg|''[[Dragon Quest Sofubi Character]]'' merchandise series
**"If it's a legendary hero you want, look no further! I'm standing right here! Whee hee hee!" (Waluigi)
File:DQ3card.jpg|
**"I don’t believe for a second in this legendary hero. If he DID exist, he’d be rescuing me right now!" (Princess Peach)
File:For Want of a Key.png|Locked door
*[[Dragonlord]] also mentions Erdrick in ''[[Fortune Street]]'' when he lands on an expensive property owned by [[Princess of Moonbrooke|Princessa]].
</gallery></center>
**"Waaargh! Dim kin of Erdrick and his sin! Thou trowest me beat by these puny bills!?"
 
==Videos==
{{#ev:youtube|5mK4YwR63yo|300}}''[[Dragon Quest: Monster Battle Road Victory]]'' finishing move


==References==
==References==
:# {{note|dw_manual}} (1989) Nintendo, Enix Corporation ''Dragon Warrior Instruction Manual'' (in English).
:# dw_manual (1989) Nintendo, Enix Corporation ''Dragon Warrior Instruction Manual'' (in English).
:# {{note|np7_40}} Editors of Nintendo Power: ''Nintendo Power July - August, 1989; issue 7'' (in English). Nintendo of America, Tokuma Shoten Publishing, 40.
:# np7_40 Editors of Nintendo Power: ''Nintendo Power July - August, 1989; issue 7'' (in English). Nintendo of America, Tokuma Shoten Publishing, 40.
:# {{note|dw2_manual}} Enix Corporation ''Unveiled Secrets of Dragon Warrior II'' (in English) Enix America Corporation.
:# dw2_manual Enix Corporation ''Unveiled Secrets of Dragon Warrior II'' (in English) Enix America Corporation.
:# {{note|np16_67}} Editors of Nintendo Power: ''Nintendo Power September/October, 1990; issue 16'' (in English). Nintendo of America, Tokuma Shoten Publishing, 67.
:# np16_67 Editors of Nintendo Power: ''Nintendo Power September/October, 1990; issue 16'' (in English). Nintendo of America, Tokuma Shoten Publishing, 67.
:# {{note|dw_np_guide}} (1989) Nintendo of America Inc., Tokuma Shoten U.S. Edition, Enix Corporation Licensed exclusively to Nintendo of America Inc., Nintendo Power Strategy Guide Published by Nintendo of America Inc. and Tokuma Shoten ''Dragon Warrior Strategy Guide'' (in English).
:# dw_np_guide (1989) Nintendo of America Inc., Tokuma Shoten U.S. Edition, Enix Corporation Licensed exclusively to Nintendo of America Inc., Nintendo Power Strategy Guide Published by Nintendo of America Inc. and Tokuma Shoten ''Dragon Warrior Strategy Guide'' (in English).
:# {{note|dw2_map}} (1990) Nintendo, Enix America Corporation Licensed Nintendo of America Inc. ''Dragon Warrior II Map'' (in English) ENI-D2-US.
:# dw2_map (1990) Nintendo, Enix America Corporation Licensed Nintendo of America Inc. ''Dragon Warrior II Map'' (in English) ENI-D2-US.
:# {{note|dw3_manual}} (1991) Enix Corporation ''Dragon Warrior III Explorer's Handbook'' (in English) Enix America Corporation.
:# dw3_manual (1991) Enix Corporation ''Dragon Warrior III Explorer's Handbook'' (in English) Enix America Corporation.
:# {{note|dw3_map}} (1991) Enix Corporation ''Dragon Warrior III Map'' (in English) ENI-D3-US.
:# dw3_map (1991) Enix Corporation ''Dragon Warrior III Map'' (in English) ENI-D3-US.
:# {{note|np8_23}} Editors of Nintendo Power: ''Nintendo Power September - October, 1989; issue 8'' (in English). Nintendo of America, Tokuma Shoten Publishing, 23.
:# np8_23 Editors of Nintendo Power: ''Nintendo Power September - October, 1989; issue 8'' (in English). Nintendo of America, Tokuma Shoten Publishing, 23.


{{Hero}}
{{Hero}}
{{DQIII}}
{{DQIII}}
{{DQXI}}
[[Category:Dragon Quest III characters]]
[[Category:Dragon Quest XI characters]]


[[Category:Dragon Quest III characters]]
[[fr:Elric]]
[[Category:Dragon Quest III]]

Latest revision as of 12:50, 14 December 2024

Erdrick (ロト, Roto) is a recurring title awarded to legendary heroes from the Dragon Quest series, and specifically the playable characters of Dragon Quest III and XI. The first three Dragon Quest games are called the "Erdrick Trilogy", as each relate to the character of Erdrick in some way. Although they do not appear in DQ or II, Erdrick is mentioned heavily in the game dialog and many items bear their name.

The name Erdrick is referenced in many of the later main Dragon Quest games, as well as some spin-offs. Due to the name being exclusively used in association with the protagonist of III for several decades, the title was treated as the character's name by both fans and media. With the arrival of XI, this connection has steadily lessened and the term Erdrick has become a title of status independent of any particular character.

For the two characters who received this title, see:

Origins of Title[edit]

At the end of III the King of Alefgard bestows upon the hero the Order of Erdrick, the country’s highest honor reserved only for true heroes. This implies that there have been several Erdricks throughout history. The hero is referred to by this title in all references outside of Dragon Quest III.

Attempting to name the hero "Erdrick" in III for the NES will generate a message requesting the player to enter their real name; however, if a space is added at the end, the warning message will not be displayed and the game may be played with the hero being named "Erdrick ". The same restriction applies in the Japanese versions for Roto as well, both in kanji and hiragana.

In the ending sequence of XI, the Luminary is bestowed the title of Erdrick for saving the land of Erdrea from Calasmos. As the game contains several homages to past titles, the connection of III and XI (if any) is up to player interpretation.

In the real-world Old English language, the word "eard" means "world," while "-ric" is a common suffix for names translating to "ruler." Thus, "Erdrick" can be said to mean "ruler of the world."

Localization history[edit]

Erdrick is a term invented for the North American release of the original trilogy. In the original Japanese version games Erdrick is known exclusively by the name Roto--this is written in runes on the shield bearing the name in official art. Another romanization of the name is Loto, which was used in place of Erdrick when Enix America, Inc. re-released Dragon Quest I, II, and III on the Game Boy Color. This was done due to the space constraints of the Game Boy's screen, with the "L" being chosen for unknown reasons.

When Dragon Quest IX: Sentinels of the Starry Skies was released in North America and Europe, the name Erdrick was once again used to refer to the legendary Hero of Dragon Quest III, effectively returning to the original English localization from the NES era.

Items Iconography[edit]

In DQ and II, there are several items that bear Erdrick as a part of their names. See the Erdrick Equipment article for more detail.

Erdrick's Sword[edit]

Also know as the Sword of kings, this is the most powerful sword in DQ and III. The sword is not the most powerful in XI, but boasts an incredibly high Attack bonus nonetheless.

Erdrick's Armour[edit]

The most powerful armour in the original trilogy, which protects against the damage from poison swamps and barriers, and restores HP while walking. It is also known as Armour of Erdrick in II and as Auroral Armour in III.

Erdrick's Shield[edit]

The Hero's Shield is the name found in III. It is called the Shield of Erdrick only in II, as it does not exist in DQ.

Erdrick's Helmet[edit]

This item exists only in Dragon Quest II, as there is no specific helm referred to as such in III. In the remakes the player can acquire Ortega's Helm, which bears a distinct similarity to Erdrick's helmet from II.

Mark of Erdrick[edit]

An object which proves the Hero's lineage in DQ, which is found in a swamp south of Cantlin. In III, the emblem is referred to as the Sacred amulet.

Erdrick's Tablet[edit]

A message written in stone by the Hero of Dragon Quest III, and left for the Hero in Dragon Quest. It gives instructions on what items are needed to reach the Isle of Dragons, which is the location of Charlock Castle. The tablet is found in a cave north of Tantegel castle, called Erdrick's Cave.

Other References to Erdrick[edit]

  • In the opening scene of Dragon Quest V, the protagonist's father, Pankraz, suggests the name "Madason" for his son. His wife, Madalena, disagrees, and suggests the name which the player entered. If the player already entered the name "Madason", Pankraz will suggest "Erdrick" instead.
  • In the US translation of Dragon Quest VI (Nintendo DS and Cell phone Version), an NPC in Gallows Moor goes by the name of Erdrick.
  • In the original Final Fantasy, a role-playing game produced by Square, there is a grave for Erdrick in the cemetery of the Elf village (in the remakes and the original Japanese version of Final Fantasy, the grave belongs to Nintendo's Link).
  • Erdrick's sword is obtainable Final Fantasy XII. It's the third-strongest weapon in the game and has the highest combo rate, but it's also the slowest. In the Japanese version, it's called the Toro Sword, Toro being Roto backwards. The English localization named it "Wyrmhero Blade", which is a synonym for "Dragon Warrior". Other localizations kept the original name, and it happens to mean "Sword of the Bull" in Spanish and Italian.
  • In the demo for Dragon Quest Builders, the player's default name is "Buildrick".
  • In Fortune Street, if certain characters are on the Alefgard board, they will refer to Erdrick either by name or indirect reference:
    • "Just one time only, I wish to fight in battle with legendary hero, Erdrick." (Alena)
    • "The restful place from legendary hero Erdrick. I am with wish that there was opportunity to meet him." (Kiryl)
    • "Maybe the hero was a bit like my big brother, Alistair. You know, just maybe." (Jessica Albert)
    • "Oh, yeah! The home of the legendary hero! That sounds like the sort of person who should be on my list of clients. Can someone invite him over?" (Patty)
    • "... A legendary hero? If he's such a legend, maybe he should take my place while I'm out to lunch!" (Stella)
    • "My anslurpstors fought alongside the legendary hero from here. I bet they were really stout!" (Slime)
    • "This place has got some legendary hero, huh? I'm acquainted wid a hero myself as it happens. ... Some mortal schmoo who's always gettin' in our way!" (Platypunk)
    • "I guess Erdrick is the big cheese around these parts! I tip my hat to you, legendary hero!" (Mario)
    • "Whoa! Alefgard! I want to meet the legendary dragon warrior Erdrick! But I forgot my camera! Wah-hah!" (Toad)
    • "Yoshi Yoshi! (Erdrick may be the big hero in these parts, but Mario is the bestest hero in the galaxy!)" (Yoshi)
    • "Yoo hoo! Oh, hero-man! Won't you come and rescue me? I'm helpless when it comes to rolling the die!" (Birdo)
    • "What’s all this talk about a legendary hero? Is Mario already famous out here? Legendary hero, my spiny shell!" (Bowser)
    • "Legendary hero, shmegendary hero! My dad’s way braver than any ol’ hero!" (Bowser Jr.)
    • "Ooo? Ook ook! (This is the place to find hotshot heroes, huh? Well, you’re looking at one!)" (Donkey Kong)
    • "Oookie? Ookity ook! (This place is famous for a legendary hero? Hey, that's what I want to be one day!)" (Diddy Kong)
    • "Huh? Who cares about some legendary hero? The only legend you need to know about is the legend of WARIO!" (Wario)
    • "If it's a legendary hero you want, look no further! I'm standing right here! Whee hee hee!" (Waluigi)
    • "I don’t believe for a second in this legendary hero. If he DID exist, he’d be rescuing me right now!" (Princess Peach)
  • Dragonlord also mentions Erdrick in Fortune Street when he lands on an expensive property owned by Princessa.
    • "Waaargh! Dim kin of Erdrick and his sin! Thou trowest me beat by these puny bills!?"

References[edit]

  1. dw_manual (1989) Nintendo, Enix Corporation Dragon Warrior Instruction Manual (in English).
  2. np7_40 Editors of Nintendo Power: Nintendo Power July - August, 1989; issue 7 (in English). Nintendo of America, Tokuma Shoten Publishing, 40.
  3. dw2_manual Enix Corporation Unveiled Secrets of Dragon Warrior II (in English) Enix America Corporation.
  4. np16_67 Editors of Nintendo Power: Nintendo Power September/October, 1990; issue 16 (in English). Nintendo of America, Tokuma Shoten Publishing, 67.
  5. dw_np_guide (1989) Nintendo of America Inc., Tokuma Shoten U.S. Edition, Enix Corporation Licensed exclusively to Nintendo of America Inc., Nintendo Power Strategy Guide Published by Nintendo of America Inc. and Tokuma Shoten Dragon Warrior Strategy Guide (in English).
  6. dw2_map (1990) Nintendo, Enix America Corporation Licensed Nintendo of America Inc. Dragon Warrior II Map (in English) ENI-D2-US.
  7. dw3_manual (1991) Enix Corporation Dragon Warrior III Explorer's Handbook (in English) Enix America Corporation.
  8. dw3_map (1991) Enix Corporation Dragon Warrior III Map (in English) ENI-D3-US.
  9. np8_23 Editors of Nintendo Power: Nintendo Power September - October, 1989; issue 8 (in English). Nintendo of America, Tokuma Shoten Publishing, 23.