After Suikoden III debuted on the PS2
with 3D graphics, a new battle system and a branching,
epic storyline involving three main characters, Suikoden
IV takes a “back to basics” approach.
And while the fourth game in the series could be described
as “Suikoden Lite”, the mood and story fit
quite well with the first two games in the series. In
short, Suikoden is back!
The game is actually a prequel to the first Suikoden,
and takes place at sea. The graphics are excellent, but
almost seem too realistic for the series. The music, as
always, is also great. Suikoden IV adds
voice acting for the first time with great results for
the most part. I just wish the hero wasn’t mute!
I realize it was a design choice to make the player feel
like they are “role playing”, but it seems
awkward.
The search for 108 stars of destiny returns, as well as
the three types of combat—which have all been subtly
improved upon. Naval battles are particularly fun. Many
side activities return, including fishing, item trading
and the baths. New activities include treasure hunting,
home decorating(!), mouse hunting, tailors and blacksmiths
creating new items from raw materials and a pretty cool
mahjong mini-game. While I’d love to see the return
of the Iron Chef mini-game from Suikoden II,
there is not a lack of things to do in this game.
The story—while excellent—is a little on the
short side and is padded out by sea travel with sea battles
that can get monotonous. Thankfully, you can switch from
three different parties while on the ship. But I wish
there were a few more islands or side quests.
Overall, I throughly enjoyed Suikoden IV.
If you are a fan of past games in the series—or
an RPG buff looking for something new—by all means
pick it up!
2008 ben langberg, all rights reserved.