The only DQ game I've ever played is the original one for NES. I barely played that even and know next to nothing about this franchise. I'm interested in getting into it though and am wondering which game might make a good entry point? Basically, I'm looking for the Final Fantasy IV of the series if that makes sense. I like a decent plot, a solid cast, and music is very important to me. Interesting gameplay mechanics/systems are a plus as well. I don't want to start with an ultra grindy one either.

I'd appreciate hearing any and all thoughts about the franchise though. Where it peaked, where/if it's started to trail off, fan favorite titles, major development team changes, etc. Also I see there is a lot of remake/port stuff going on, and I'm not sure what the deal on that stuff is.