This guide explains how to obtain the elusive Yellow Orb in the Dragon Quest 3 Remake. While the process is relatively simple, finding the starting point can be challenging. The key is understanding the role of Merchantburg, a town initially represented as "???" on the map.
Locating Merchantburg (???)
After obtaining the ship from the King of Portoga (following the Black Pepper quest), sail to the northeast corner of the map. Merchantburg's quest marker (if enabled) will guide you. You can reach it by sailing west from the coast, reaching the easternmost edge of the eastern continent.
Optimal Timing for Visiting Merchantburg
While orb acquisition order is flexible, visiting Merchantburg early (immediately after getting the ship) is recommended. The town requires significant growth time before yielding the Yellow Orb. Establishing it early allows you to collect other orbs concurrently.
Establishing Merchantburg and the Yellow Orb Acquisition
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Hire a Merchant: Before heading to Merchantburg, hire a new merchant from PALS in Aliahan. Minimize combat en route to protect your new recruit.
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Founding the Town: In Merchantburg's lone building, speak to the old man. He'll need a merchant to establish the town. Offer your newly hired merchant. The town will then be named after your merchant (e.g., Christopherburg if you named him Christopher).
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Merchantburg's Growth: After establishing the town, proceed with obtaining the Purple Orb (Orochi's Lair) and Blue Orb (Gaia's Navel). You'll receive notifications to revisit Merchantburg as it grows through five stages. Each visit shows increased town size, culminating in a large cabaret's construction. On your fourth visit, note the merchant's growing unpopularity.
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The Revolt and the Orb: On your fifth and final visit (at night), the merchant will be absent. The townsfolk have revolted, imprisoning him in the house south of his former residence. Speak to the imprisoned merchant to learn the Yellow Orb's location. Return to the merchant's house; a quest marker will appear behind the sofa. Interact with the ground to obtain the Yellow Orb.
The Yellow Orb is typically the penultimate orb acquired. The other orbs' locations are: Red Orb (Pirates' Den), Green Orb (Theddon), and Silver Orb (Maw of the Necrogond/Necrogond Shrine).
