Story

Suikoden II, released in 1998 for the original PlayStation, is a masterful blend of intricate storytelling and deep character development. Set in the war-torn land of Dunan, the game follows the journey of a young hero, known as Riou, who becomes embroiled in a conflict between the City-States of Jowston and the Kingdom of Highland. The game opens with Riou and his best friend, Jowy Atreides, as members of the Unicorn Brigade, a youth division of the Highland Army.

The plot thickens as Riou and Jowy are betrayed by their superior, Luca Blight, a sadistic prince of Highland who orchestrates a brutal massacre to frame the City-States and justify a full-scale invasion. Surviving the betrayal, Riou and Jowy escape and are soon separated, setting the stage for a tale filled with political intrigue, personal betrayal, and a quest for peace.

Throughout the game, Riou is tasked with gathering the 108 Stars of Destiny, a concept rooted in Chinese folklore that forms the backbone of the game’s narrative structure. These Stars are individuals from diverse backgrounds, each with unique stories and skills, who join Riou’s cause. As the story unfolds, themes of friendship, loyalty, and the heavy burdens of leadership are explored with depth and nuance.

One of Suikoden II’s standout features is its character development. The game delves deep into the motivations and backgrounds of its large cast, allowing players to form emotional connections with them. The complex relationship between Riou and Jowy is particularly compelling, as their friendship is tested by the harsh realities of war and their differing ideals.

Gameplay

Suikoden II builds upon the gameplay mechanics of its predecessor, offering a rich and varied experience that keeps players engaged from start to finish. The game features a traditional turn-based combat system, but with a few notable twists that set it apart from other RPGs of its time.

Turn-Based Combat

The core combat system allows players to form a party of up to six characters, each with distinct abilities and roles. The strategic depth comes from the ability to combine characters’ attacks into powerful Unite Attacks, adding a layer of tactical planning to battles. Additionally, the game features elemental rune magic, enabling characters to cast spells that can turn the tide of battle.

Army Battles

In addition to standard combat, Suikoden II includes large-scale army battles that simulate the epic clashes between the game’s factions. These battles play out like a game of rock-paper-scissors, where players must anticipate enemy moves and deploy the right units to gain an advantage. The outcome of these battles can significantly impact the story, adding weight to the player’s decisions.

Duels

The game also introduces one-on-one duels, where characters engage in dramatic, high-stakes confrontations. These duels require players to read their opponent’s intentions and choose the appropriate action—attack, defend, or a special move—to emerge victorious.

Recruitment and Base Building

A core element of Suikoden II’s gameplay is the recruitment of the 108 Stars of Destiny. These characters must be found and convinced to join Riou’s cause, often through side quests or dialogue choices. As more characters are recruited, Riou’s home base expands, offering new facilities, shops, and mini-games that enrich the overall experience.

Graphics and Sound

Suikoden II’s graphics, though dated by modern standards, were impressive for its time. The game employs a combination of 2D sprites and detailed backgrounds that bring the world of Dunan to life. The art style is vibrant and expressive, with character designs that convey personality and emotion, contributing to the game’s immersive storytelling.

The game’s sound design is equally noteworthy. Composer Miki Higashino crafted a memorable soundtrack that enhances the emotional and narrative depth of the game. From the haunting melodies of the overworld theme to the intense battle music, each track perfectly complements the mood and setting of the game. The use of sound effects further immerses players in the experience, from the clashing of swords in battle to the ambient sounds of bustling towns.

Legacy and Reception

Suikoden II is widely regarded as one of the greatest RPGs of all time, praised for its compelling narrative, deep character development, and innovative gameplay mechanics. Despite its initial release as a relatively obscure title, the game has since garnered a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim.

The game’s impact is evident in its influence on subsequent RPGs, particularly in its approach to storytelling and character recruitment. The concept of gathering a large roster of characters, each with unique backstories and abilities, has inspired many games in the genre, including popular titles like the Fire Emblem series and the more recent Octopath Traveler.

Suikoden II’s legacy is also marked by its scarcity and high demand among collectors. Physical copies of the game are considered rare and valuable, with prices often reaching hundreds of dollars on the secondary market. This rarity has only added to the game’s mystique and appeal, further cementing its status as a cult classic.

Conclusion

Suikoden II stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and character development in video games. Its engaging narrative, deep gameplay mechanics, and memorable characters have left a lasting impact on the RPG genre and continue to resonate with players decades after its release. As a beloved classic, Suikoden II has earned its place in the pantheon of great RPGs, and its legacy endures through its influence on modern gaming and the enduring love of its fans.