Suikoden I&II HD Remaster Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars Review Summary

Improved and accurate translation: The remaster includes a new and improved translation, addressing issues with the original localization. This enhances the accessibility and user-friendliness of the game, particularly for those unfamiliar with the original PS1 versions. The updated translation ensures that the story is conveyed accurately and effectively to a modern audience.

Enhanced HD visuals and UI: The remaster features enhanced HD visuals, including backgrounds, effects and UI. The updated graphics and widescreen support modernize the game's presentation while retaining the original charm and art style. The improved resolution and detailed environments offer a more vibrant and engaging experience.

Faithful to the original games: The remaster is praised for its faithfulness to the original games, preserving the core elements and charm while enhancing the presentation. Reviewers appreciate that the remaster doesn't stray too far from the source material, providing a nostalgic experience for long-time fans. The game retains the feel of the classic Suikoden games.

Updated character portraits: The character portraits have been redone with better resolution and detail. The new character portraits align more closely with the art style of Suikoden II. The updated character portraits look great.

Evokes strong nostalgia: Many reviewers express strong nostalgia and positive childhood memories associated with the original Suikoden games. The remastered version evokes these feelings, allowing players to relive their experiences. This point has a reduced score due to its focus on personal emotions rather than specific game features.

Lacks essential PC features/fixes: The game lacks essential PC features and has technical issues. Specifically, the game lacks a proper exit option, has control issues (keyboard remapping, controller recognition), and some users experience black screen errors or graphical distortions.

Limited save options are frustrating: Players are frustrated by the lack of an anywhere-save feature, with the autosave system being tied to specific locations (crystals) or INNs. This limitation is seen as an outdated mechanic compared to modern RPGs.

No Chinese character input: The game does not allow the use of Chinese characters for names, which is a significant drawback, especially for a Traditional Chinese remake. This is seen as a major oversight.

Cumbersome, outdated inventory system: The inventory system is seen as cumbersome and clunky, requiring constant selling and buying to manage space. Reviewers wished this system had been updated to improve item management across characters.

Lacks improvements from sequel: Some reviewers note that improvements from Suikoden 2, such as the three rune slots, were not implemented in this version of the original game. They also find Suikoden 1 more clunky compared to its sequel.

Intricate story, 108 characters: The Suikoden series is known for its rich narrative, focusing on political conflicts, friendship, and betrayal, all centered around recruiting 108 characters, the Stars of Destiny. Many of these characters have utility roles in the player's castle, which expands as the game progresses.

Varied battle types: The game features large-scale army battles, 1-on-1 duels, and strategic battles, adding variety to the gameplay. Army battles involve using acquired characters against enemy armies, with the possibility of permanent character death adding suspense.

Turn-based combat with runes: The game uses a turn-based battle system complemented by a rune system, which allows for character customization and spell/attack combinations. Combat involves controlling up to 6 fighters, and character ranges matter in combat.

Improved movement, awkward run key: The game now allows for 8-directional movement, including diagonal movement, which is helpful in some areas. However, the run key implementation feels awkward, as the character walks slower than in the original game while running faster, and running cannot be toggled.

Traditional, dated JRPG mechanics: The game retains traditional JRPG mechanics and tropes, which may feel antiquated to some players due to a lack of modern quality-of-life features. However, the game maintains its old-school charm.

Smooth performance, few bugs: The game generally runs smoothly on PC and Steam Deck, with many players reporting solid performance and no major bugs. It works on Steam Deck out of the box, despite the default compatibility status.

V-sync fixes texture issues: Enabling V-sync in the game's options can resolve visual texture issues. This is a specific workaround for a known graphical problem.

Highly recommended JRPG experience: The game is highly recommended for both newcomers and long-time fans of JRPGs, especially those who enjoy story-driven experiences. Many consider it a must-play and one of the best in the genre, with some reviewers specifically recommending it to fans of turn-based combat and those looking for a classic experience.

Hoping for series revival: Many reviewers express hope that the success of this remaster will lead to a full revival of the Suikoden series, including remasters or remakes of other games in the franchise. They are eager for Konami to continue supporting the series and potentially release new installments that continue the main story.

Price considered fair by many: Multiple reviewers find the game's price to be fair, especially considering the content included and the quality of the games. Some suggest waiting for a sale, while others believe it's worth the full price, especially compared to the cost of older copies.

Consider Eiyuden for modern experience: One reviewer suggests that players seeking a more modern JRPG experience might prefer Eiyuden Chronicles. This implies that Suikoden may appeal more to fans of classic or retro JRPG gameplay.

Play games in order: Playing both games in order is recommended to take advantage of save transfer bonuses, which can enhance the experience in the second game. This allows players to carry over progress and unlock special content.

Original sound effects retained: The game retains original sound effects and music, including iconic sounds like the 'Dhalsim stage elephant roar'. This faithfulness to the original audio may be appreciated by purists.

Larger file size: The game's file size is 10 GB, significantly larger than the original Playstation CD version. This is still considered an old fashioned game size.

Tribute to creator: The original creator passed away, and the future of the spiritual successor, Hundred Heroes, is uncertain. This is a tribute to Yoshitaka Murayama for creating awesome childhood memories.

Saving limited to specific locations: Saving is restricted to inns or specific locations, a mechanic reminiscent of older games. This limitation may frustrate players accustomed to more frequent save options.

Gallery unlocks in-game content: The game includes a gallery with soundtracks and important scenes/events. These are unlocked as the player progresses through the game.