How can I make more money to buy an expensive item?
Players gain money many different ways. Fight monsters on the main battlefield to win gold following their defeat. Gold Golems on the Holy Island of Neos give 700 gold, the most of any enemy in the game. You could also take your chances at a game of roulette at the Baccarat Casino. Sell off any duplicate items for extra gold while keeping at least one of every variety for use in the alchemy pot.
How do I save my game?
Unlike most console role-playing games, Dragon Quest 8 does not have save points laid out in the middle of towns that are easy to see. Rather, you can save by visiting churches. You can find these in major towns. Just talk to the priest or nun and ask if you can make a "confession." This will start the save process. Try to save as often as you can because you never know when you might meet a really tough enemy.
I'm 10 hours into the game and still can't create items. What's the deal?
Dragon Quest 8 features an in-depth item creation engine called the "alchemy pot." While this is one of the most sought-after aspects of the game, you aren't able to use it until well into the storyline. You won't have access to it until after you reach Peregrin Quay.
Is there a difference between day and night in the field?
Yes, fights are harder at night. As you walk around the adventure field between towns, you'll notice the day slowly changes to night. The enemies are going to be harder once it gets dark. If you're at a low level and are already having a hard time with daytime enemies, avoid nighttime fights and go back to town. You can progress time back into day by staying at an inn.
Is the monster arena required?
No, the monster arena is not required. You can open the monster arena once you help Morrie near Pickham. He'll ask for your help finding rare monsters. If you find them all, you can use them for fighting in the monster arena. This is a side quest that you can do on your own if you want to win cool prizes like the Dragon Robe and the Hero Spear. If you'd rather move on to the end of the game, you can skip it.