Dragon Quest 3 Remake: Unlocking the Elusive Yellow Orb

The Yellow Orb in Dragon Quest 3 Remake is notoriously difficult to obtain, not because of challenging battles, but due to its hidden location and the unconventional method of acquiring it. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you don't miss a step.

The Yellow Orb is found in a town initially marked only as "???" on your map – Merchantburg. This town's name is actually determined by the merchant you hire and leave there. The game never explicitly names this town, adding to the mystery. To obtain the Yellow Orb, you must first establish and nurture this settlement.

Locating Merchantburg (???)

After obtaining the ship from the King of Portoga (following the Black Pepper quest), Merchantburg's quest marker will appear in the northeast corner of the world map. Sail west from the coast to reach the eastern edge of the eastern continent.

Optimal Timing for Merchantburg

While orb acquisition order is flexible, visiting Merchantburg early is highly recommended. The town requires significant time to grow before yielding the Yellow Orb. Establishing it early allows you to pursue other orbs concurrently, returning to Merchantburg as it progresses.

Establishing Merchantburg and Acquiring the Yellow Orb

1. Hire a Merchant: Before heading to Merchantburg, visit PALS in Aliahan and hire a new merchant. Minimize combat en route to keep your new recruit safe.

2. Founding the Town: Upon arriving at Merchantburg, enter the single building. An old man will request a merchant to establish the town. Offer your newly hired merchant. They'll leave your party and begin setting up shop, officially naming the town.

3. Merchantburg's Growth: After establishing the town, continue your orb hunt (consider the Purple Orb from Orochi's Lair and the Blue Orb from Gaia's Navel). You'll receive notifications to return to Merchantburg as it grows through five stages. Each visit shows increased development, culminating in a large cabaret. During your fourth visit, you’ll notice growing discontent amongst the townsfolk toward your merchant.

4. The Revolt and the Orb's Location: On your fifth and final visit (ideally at night), you'll find the merchant missing. The townspeople have revolted, imprisoning him in the house south of his former residence. Speak to the imprisoned merchant; they'll reveal the Yellow Orb's location. Return to the merchant's house; a quest marker will appear behind the sofa. Interact with the ground behind the sofa to uncover the Yellow Orb.

For most players, the Yellow Orb will be among the last orbs acquired. Remember to collect the Red Orb (Pirate's Den), Green Orb (Theddon), and Silver Orb (Maw of the Necrogond/Necrogond Shrine) along your journey.