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), Merchantburg's location becomes accessible. It's situated in the northeast corner of the world map, reachable by sailing west from the eastern continent's coast. Quest markers will help pinpoint its location.
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. Starting early allows parallel progress on other orbs.
Acquiring the Yellow Orb
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Hire a Merchant: Before heading to Merchantburg, hire a new merchant from PALS in Aliahan. Minimize combat en route to preserve your new party member.
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Establish Merchantburg: Upon arrival at Merchantburg (???), enter the single building. Speak to the old man inside; he needs a merchant to found the town. Offer your newly hired merchant. The town will then be named after your merchant (e.g., Christopherburg).
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Merchantburg's Growth: After establishing the town, continue acquiring 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. The final stage involves a large cabaret's construction. On your fourth visit, note the growing discontent among townsfolk towards your merchant.
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The Revolt: On your fifth and final visit (at night), discover the merchant's absence. The townsfolk have revolted, imprisoning him in the house south of his former residence.
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The Yellow Orb's Location: Speak to the imprisoned merchant. He'll reveal the Yellow Orb's location. Return to his house; the orb will be marked by a quest marker behind the sofa.
The Yellow Orb is typically one of the last orbs acquired. Other orb locations include: Red Orb (Pirates' Den), Green Orb (Theddon), and Silver Orb (Maw of the Necrogond/Necrogond Shrine).