Suikoden (PlayStation, 1996)

An amazing tale of corruption, triumph, and strength in numbers, Suikoden is one RPG that will remain as a true classic in the PlayStation library. The story behind this masterpiece is enthralling and emotional as your search for the 108 Stars of Destiny and 27 True Runes take you on a journey unlike any other RPG has offered in the past. This game is easily addictive and very involving.

Where Do I Sign? Recruit characters you find on your travels throughout the many beautiful lands who'll follow you into battle in the name of honor, justice, and truth. But is each character who stand by your side faithful to your cause, or are there some with secrets? 108 unique and inviting characters in total, each offering their own personality, story, and spirit to further push the game's hold on the player. (Known as the 108 Stars of Destiny)

Customize your castle HQ! By recruiting characters throughout the game and collecting various items, you can use the skills of your companions to build new additions, add beautiful art, enjoy fine meals, and even relax in the comfort of your own hot tub! One character even gives you the power to instantly teleport to other locations in the blink of an eye instead of having to walk everywhere on foot! Your HQ becomes a very popular hangout as the growth of your power spreads.

Rune Power! Find and utilize the potential power of the 27 True Runes! Each rune is governed by a symbol representing it’s elemental power, weakness and strength that aid in your quest against the enemy. Some rune spells are very powerful and hand out a quick beating to your enemy while others can be weaker, yet still serve their purpose in a skillful manner. Collect the whole set!

Battle! Cast an array of rune powered spells and specialized character combo attacks in traditional turn based action combat against unique and unusual creatures. Some battles are fought one on one while others encourage you to immerse yourself in waging a war against your enemy utilizing magic power and physical might of a full army at your command! This you have to see!

Graphics! The visual appeal within the world of Suikoden is crisp and detailed using amazing color schemes applied to the various characters and creatures offering a tasteful sight to behold. The casting of spells look wonderful and compliment the power of the PlayStation. Granted the graphics are a little dated, they still hold their own considering this game was released in the US in 1996.

Sound and Music! Some sound effects used for this game are of a familiar variety known to those who've watched Saturday morning cartoons in the 70's and 80's. This is especially neat when spells are cast. The soundtrack is a poetic symphony of strength adding to the emotional backbone of the story and it's many characters. Uplifting and packing a punch at times, don't be surprised if you find yourself humming along as the music kicks your senses into overload. The musical scores in the game create an inviting atmosphere that make it shine true. Just beautiful.

Years after it's initial release and having completed this game on numerous occasions, I still find this to be a fascinating and truly enjoyable RPG experience. Suikoden is definitely a worthy purchase and shouldn't be passed up.

Enjoy!, Super Sega Man.