Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars is the latest offering from Konami, delivering a meticulously remastered collection of two of the finest PlayStation 1 JRPGs ever created. This enhanced collection is now accessible for modern gamers on both PS5 and PS4, inviting a new generation to experience the epic tales of war, duty, sacrifice, and revolution that these games encapsulate.
Both Suikoden and Suikoden II weave a connected narrative filled with rich storytelling and complex characters, drawing inspiration from classic Chinese literature. Players will find themselves immersed in a world populated by the 108 Stars of Destiny, a massive cast of companions that you can recruit and unlock as you progress through the games. This recruitment system is one of the most satisfying aspects of the series, allowing players to gather diverse allies for their quests.
While both games stand out individually, Suikoden (originally released in 1995) does feel more dated and requires a bit more patience from players. However, it provides essential context for its sequel and introduces a surprising number of returning characters. On the other hand, Suikoden II is often hailed as the best JRPG on the PS1, showcasing a grand scale and expertly crafted gameplay that is still revered today.
The Suikoden I & II HD Remaster offers a host of enhancements that make these classic games more appealing to contemporary players. Expect to see HD portraits, a revamped user interface, beautifully redrawn backgrounds, and improvements to some of the original’s rough edges. Moreover, the collection introduces essential quality-of-life features such as a fast-forward function and diagonal movement, making gameplay smoother and more enjoyable.
This re-release also includes a digital museum feature that fills with art, music, and cinematics as players unlock them throughout their journey. Konami’s dedication to preserving the series' history and legacy is evident in these thoughtful additions.
The original Suikoden presents players with a rich narrative featuring a protagonist who is the son of a renowned imperial general. As he begins to uncover the harsh realities faced by the common people of the Scarlet Moon Empire, he grows disillusioned with the corrupt ruling class and their oppressive policies. This journey sets the stage for a revolution as he unites various rebel factions.
Gameplay revolves around exploring a vast world, engaging with NPCs, recruiting allies, and participating in satisfying turn-based combat. Players can form a combat party of up to six characters, emphasizing strategy in character placement within formations to maximize their effectiveness. Short-range characters lead the front line, while long-range characters attack from the back, and medium-range characters can strike from various positions.
Additionally, players will encounter large-scale army battles at key narrative points, although these tend to be simple and scripted. To streamline combat, there is an option to automate actions, allowing for a quicker pace during less challenging encounters or when grinding for experience points (EXP) and the in-game currency, known as potch. The inclusion of a fast-forward feature is a welcome addition for players looking to expedite these segments.
Combat complexity is heightened through Unite attacks, which require specific character combinations to execute, and the Rune system, enabling various magical abilities. Players can also attach Orbs to enhance weapon capabilities, adding layers to character development. With over 80 companions available for recruitment, each with unique weapons, players can upgrade their gear at a blacksmith, enhancing combat effectiveness.
However, managing equipment can be cumbersome; players may find it tedious to keep their combat characters equipped with the latest armor and upgraded weapons, as the buying and selling processes are not streamlined. This can lead to players focusing on a smaller group of characters out of convenience, which is contrary to the game’s encouragement to utilize its extensive roster.
Upon progressing through Suikoden, players eventually gain access to a castle that becomes a hub for their recruited companions. These characters can take on roles such as shopkeepers and blacksmiths, offering better gear and more personality than standard NPCs. While all these elements apply to Suikoden II, the sequel implements them more effectively, with improved combat mechanics, more engaging enemy formations, and a broader array of Unity attack combinations.
The storyline of Suikoden II builds upon its predecessor, set years later and focusing on a group of young martial artists embroiled in the political conflicts of the Highland Empire. The narrative explores darker themes, including the aftermath of war and its impact on the lives of orphans and survivors, making it an emotionally riveting experience.
In conclusion, the Suikoden I & II HD Remaster is a treasure trove for fans of classic Japanese role-playing games. With its rich stories, engaging gameplay, and thoughtful enhancements, this collection is an easy recommendation for both newcomers and returning players. Whether you’re revisiting the iconic battles of the Suikoden series or experiencing them for the first time, this remaster invites you to embark on an unforgettable journey through the realms of war and revolution.
