If you, like me, have fond memories of diving into the intricate worlds of games like Suikoden, Eiyuden Chronicle Hundred Heroes might initially feel like a trip down memory lane. However, beyond the nostalgic veneer, the game struggles to recapture the magic of its spiritual predecessor.
At its core, Eiyuden Chronicle Hundred Heroes embraces the essence of classic JRPGs with a blend of turn-based combat and character-driven storytelling. The inclusion of rune-lenses as a source of power and plot device adds a unique twist, echoing the runes of Suikoden. But where Suikoden excelled in balancing simplicity with depth, Eiyuden Chronicle feels overly mechanical at times and lacks the same balance.
The battles themselves are competently designed, featuring a variety of abilities and tactical nuances. Yet, the combat can feel like a slog, especially when facing repetitious enemy encounters that neither challenge nor excite. This lack of dynamism makes the game feel more of a chore than an adventure.
The game sports beautiful, hand-drawn environments mixed with pixel art characters, reminiscent of the golden age of 16-bit RPGs. The art direction is a strong point, and the vibrant visuals do much to capture the eye. Characters are distinct and well-designed, but the animations sometimes feel stilted, diminishing the overall fluidity and immersion.
The narrative promises an epic tapestry of alliances and conflicts within the diverse world of Allraan. The initial setup, involving the discovery of a technology that amplifies magical rune-lenses, is intriguing and suggests deep lore. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes evident that the game struggles to maintain momentum.
Protagonists Seign Kesling and Nowa have potential, but their development often feels surface-level. Many supporting characters appear just as shallow, rarely transcending their initial descriptions. This superficiality makes it difficult to form strong emotional connections or become deeply invested in the plot.
While Eiyuden Chronicle Hundred Heroes nails the nostalgic aesthetic and offers promising world-building, it falters in execution. The combat system, despite its tactical elements, becomes tedious over time, and the narrative fails to sustain engagement with its characters and plot twists.
The game’s strongest aspects lie in its visual presentation and the homage it pays to classic JRPG elements. However, the shallow character development and repetitive gameplay mechanics hinder its overall appeal.
As a longtime fan of retro RPGs, I wanted to love Eiyuden Chronicle Hundred Heroes. Unfortunately, while it scratches the surface of nostalgia, it doesn’t dive deep enough to satisfy. If you’re a Suikoden fan hoping for a modern reimagining with similar depth, this title might leave you wanting more.
Take your time exploring and speaking to every NPC. Some finely hidden quests and characters can enrich your experience, even if the main plot falls short. Also, don’t hesitate to grind a bit early on to gain an edge in battles, as it makes the ensuing tedium a bit less daunting.
For players who enjoy retro-styled JRPGs and have the patience to wade through less engaging segments, Eiyuden Chronicle Hundred Heroes still offers an adventure worth experiencing. However, for those seeking the intricate storytelling and character depth of Suikoden, this game might not fully deliver. Amidst its highs and lows, it highlights a stark reminder that capturing lightning in a bottle twice is no easy feat.
Want to check it out yourself? Click here to see it on Steam.
