For fans of classic JRPGs, Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is nothing short of a dream come true. Created by Rabbit & Bear Studios—a team led by Yoshitaka Murayama and Junko Kawano, the masterminds behind the Suikoden series—this game is both a heartfelt tribute to the past and a bold step into the future. With its massive roster of recruitable characters, strategic battles, and rich narrative, Eiyuden Chronicle feels like the spiritual successor to Suikoden that fans have been yearning for. Let’s dive into what makes this game a must-play for any RPG enthusiast.
A Tale of War, Friendship, and Betrayal
Set in the war-torn continent of Allraan, Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes tells a sweeping story of political intrigue, personal bonds, and the clash of ideals. The world is a melting pot of cultures and races, from humans and beastfolk to elves and desert dwellers, each with their own ambitions and struggles. At the heart of the tale is the conflict between the Galdean Empire, an expansionist superpower, and those who resist its domination.
You step into the shoes of Seign Kesling, a young Imperial officer with a brilliant mind for strategy and combat. Seign’s journey begins with loyalty to the Empire, but as he witnesses the suffering caused by its conquests, he begins to question its motives. On the opposite side is Nowa, a kindhearted boy from a remote village, whose life takes a dramatic turn when he comes into possession of a mysterious artifact of immense power.
The story takes you through a grand journey filled with shifting allegiances, heartbreaking betrayals, and the forging of unbreakable friendships. The interplay between Seign, Nowa, and the many other characters you meet along the way is the emotional core of the narrative, making every choice and consequence resonate deeply.
A Strategic and Dynamic Battle System
The combat system in Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is a perfect blend of classic turn-based mechanics and modern innovations. Battles take place in a six-character party setup, allowing for endless combinations of strategies. Each character has unique skills and roles—some excel in melee combat, others specialize in magic, and some provide crucial support abilities.
Positioning and synergy are key to victory. The system encourages experimentation, with special team-up attacks reminiscent of the “Unite” abilities from Suikoden. These powerful moves reward players for recruiting specific characters and building bonds between them, adding a layer of strategy to team composition.
The game also introduces large-scale battles, where you command your forces against enemy armies. These encounters feel like epic chess matches, requiring careful planning and resource management to outmaneuver your foes.
A Cast of 100+ Heroes
What truly sets Eiyuden Chronicle apart is its staggering roster of over 100 recruitable characters, echoing the iconic “108 Stars of Destiny” from Suikoden. Each character has a unique backstory, personality, and role in your growing rebellion. From skilled warriors and cunning strategists to merchants and craftsmen, every recruit adds something meaningful to your cause.
Recruiting these characters isn’t just about increasing your battle power—it’s about building a community. Your headquarters evolves as you gather allies, transforming from a humble base into a bustling hub filled with shops, training grounds, and more. This feature fosters a sense of progression and belonging, making your journey feel truly monumental.
Art, Music, and Nostalgia
Visually, Eiyuden Chronicle is a stunning blend of 2D pixel art and modern 3D environments. The beautifully animated sprites and richly detailed backgrounds create a world that feels both nostalgic and fresh. The art direction pays homage to classic JRPGs while pushing the boundaries of what modern pixel art can achieve.
The music, composed by Suikoden veteran Motoi Sakuraba, is another standout feature. From hauntingly beautiful melodies to rousing battle themes, the soundtrack captures the emotional highs and lows of the story perfectly.
A Love Letter to Suikoden
It’s impossible to talk about Eiyuden Chronicle without acknowledging its roots in Suikoden. Many of the features that made Suikoden beloved—massive recruitable rosters, strategic battles, and deeply personal storytelling—are present here, refined and expanded upon. The game isn’t just a spiritual successor; it’s a celebration of everything that made Suikoden a masterpiece.
Why You Should Play Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes Today
1. A Gripping Story with Emotional Depth
The narrative of Eiyuden Chronicle is both epic and intimate, blending political intrigue with personal stories of hope, loss, and redemption. It’s a tale that stays with you long after the credits roll.
2. Nostalgia Meets Innovation
For fans of classic JRPGs, this game feels like a warm embrace. At the same time, its modern mechanics and visuals ensure it stands out in today’s crowded RPG landscape.
3. Endless Replayability
With over 100 characters to recruit and countless combinations of party setups, every playthrough offers something new. Add in the strategic depth of the battle system, and you’ve got a game that rewards creativity and experimentation.
4. A Testament to the Power of Community
Born from a wildly successful Kickstarter campaign, Eiyuden Chronicle is a testament to the enduring love for classic JRPGs and the power of fan support. Playing it feels like being part of something bigger—a shared celebration of gaming history.
Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is more than just a game; it’s a tribute to the golden age of JRPGs and a bold step forward for the genre. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Suikoden or new to the world of massive character rosters and epic tales, this is an adventure you don’t want to miss.
Gather your heroes, rally your allies, and take up arms against tyranny. The story of Allraan is waiting to be written—and it’s yours to shape.
