Dragon Quest 3: Yellow Orb's Acquisition Unveiled

Author: Patrick Feb 08,2025

This guide explains how to obtain the elusive Yellow Orb in the Dragon Quest 3 Remake. The Yellow Orb's location, Merchantburg (initially displayed as ???), is unique because its name is determined by the merchant you hire.

Locating Merchantburg (???)

Merchantburg Location

Merchantburg is accessible after obtaining the ship from the King of Portoga. With quest markers enabled, it's found in the northeast corner of the world map. You can sail west from the coast to reach its easternmost edge on the eastern continent.

Optimal Timing for Visiting Merchantburg

While orb collection 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.

Obtaining the Yellow Orb

Hiring a Merchant

  1. Hire a Merchant: Before heading to Merchantburg, hire a new merchant from PALS in Aliahan. Travel directly to the town to minimize combat encounters.

  2. Establish Merchantburg: Enter the single building in Merchantburg. Speak to the old man; 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).

Merchantburg Established

  1. Merchantburg's Growth: After establishing the town, proceed to acquire 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 fourth visit involves a large club's construction; be wary of the security guard trying to overcharge you.

  2. The Revolt: On your fourth visit, notice your merchant's growing arrogance. This foreshadows the town's revolt.

  3. The Yellow Orb's Location: Visit Merchantburg at night during your fifth visit. The merchant will be imprisoned in the house south of his former residence. Speak to him; he'll reveal the Yellow Orb's location. Return to his house; the orb is behind the sofa.

The Yellow Orb is typically acquired near the end of your orb-gathering quest. Other orb locations include: Red Orb (Pirates' Den), Green Orb (Theddon), and Silver Orb (Maw of the Necrogond/Necrogond Shrine).