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Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes
Item: Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Side View Perspective, RPG, Anime and JRPG, Strategy, Single Player

AvailableApr 23, 2024

PlatformPlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, PC

DeveloperRabbit & Bear Studios

Overview

Eiyuden Chronicles: Hundred Heroes is designed to bring players a modern take on a classic JRPG experience. Get ready to lead 100+ playable characters through a war-torn world only you can save.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes wins over critics with its nostalgic nod to classic JRPGs and an engaging story of uniting diverse characters against tyranny. However, it falters in depth and originality, often feeling clichéd and disjointed, with pacing issues and limited character development. While some praise its political themes and emotional interactions, many believe it falls short of being a truly compelling narrative, ultimately echoing its inspirations rather than forging its own path.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

42%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes has garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, particularly for its nostalgic homage to classic JRPGs like Suikoden. Many reviewers, such as GameGrin and Gamersky, praised the engaging narrative that revolves around the protagonist Nowa and his journey to unite a diverse group of characters against an oppressive empire. The game is noted for its themes of loyalty, honor, and the complexities of political intrigue, with critics like GamingBolt and GamingTrend highlighting the character development and emotional depth that some characters exhibit. Additionally, the narrative's structure, featuring multiple arcs and perspectives, has been appreciated for providing a broad view of the unfolding conflict, as noted by IGN Japan and Digital Trends. However, despite the positive aspects, several critics pointed out significant shortcomings in the story's execution. Many felt that the narrative lacks the depth and emotional engagement necessary for a truly compelling experience. GameOver.gr and GameSpew criticized the story for being clichéd and lacking high stakes, while PCGamesN noted that the main narrative feels disjointed and lacks tension until the final act. Critics such as IGN Italia and Multiplayer.it echoed these sentiments, mentioning that while the story has interesting elements, it often feels like an imitation of its predecessors, suffering from pacing issues and underdeveloped character arcs. The sheer number of characters, while adding to the game's charm, has also been cited as a reason for limited character development, as highlighted by Twinfinite and Windows Central. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes offers a nostalgic and engaging narrative that appeals to fans of classic JRPGs, yet it struggles with depth and originality. While some reviewers like Hobby Consolas and Metro GameCentral appreciate the political themes and character interactions, many others, including GameMAG and RPG Fan, believe that the story ultimately falls short of its potential due to predictable plot points and pacing issues. The game is seen as a tribute to its inspirations, but it may not fully resonate with players seeking a fresh and deeply engaging narrative experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes charms with classic JRPG nostalgia and a rich character recruitment system, but suffers from slow pacing, excessive backtracking, and a simplistic combat system. Critics praise its strategic depth and diverse battle types, yet lament outdated mechanics and a lack of quality-of-life features. While it appeals to die-hard fans of the genre, it risks frustrating modern players seeking a more polished experience. Overall, it’s a nostalgic trip that needs refinement to truly shine.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes has been praised by several critics for its adherence to traditional JRPG mechanics, which many players find nostalgic and engaging. Reviewers like CGMagazine and GamingTrend highlight the game’s extensive character recruitment system and the strategic depth offered by its turn-based combat, which allows for various party compositions and unique character abilities. Critics such as IGN Japan and XboxEra appreciate the inclusion of diverse battle types, including duels and larger army engagements, adding layers to the gameplay. Furthermore, elements like town-building and mini-games, noted by GamingBolt and TheXboxHub, provide additional layers of engagement that enhance the overall experience. However, the game is not without its shortcomings. Many critics point out issues such as slow pacing and excessive backtracking, which can detract from the overall enjoyment, as noted by The Games Machine and Gamersky. Additionally, several reviewers, including GameOver.gr and GRYOnline.pl, criticize the combat system for its lack of challenge and balance, with some battles feeling too easy or repetitive. The absence of quality-of-life features, such as a bestiary or quest log, has also been a common complaint, leading to navigation frustrations, as highlighted by GameSpot and Digital Trends. Critics like Everyeye.it and TouchArcade mention that while the game captures the essence of classic JRPGs, it suffers from outdated mechanics that may feel cumbersome for modern players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes successfully evokes the charm of classic JRPGs while incorporating some modern elements, but it also struggles with pacing and balance issues. Reviewers like RPGamer and Shacknews emphasize that while the game offers a nostalgic experience with engaging mechanics, it can feel repetitive and lacks certain innovations that would elevate it further. Many critics appreciate the strategic depth and character variety, but the outdated design choices and lack of challenge in certain aspects leave room for improvement. The game seems to cater well to fans of the genre, particularly those with a fondness for the classic era of JRPGs, while potentially alienating players who prefer more streamlined and modern gameplay experiences.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes impresses with its stunning 2D and 3D visuals, earning praise for nostalgia and vibrant character design. Critics highlight its artistic charm but point out technical flaws, including outdated models, graphical glitches, and recycled animations. Overall, the game strikes a balance between classic and modern aesthetics, though some execution issues hold it back from being truly groundbreaking.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes have garnered a largely positive reception among critics, who praise the game's stunning blend of 2D sprites and 3D environments. Reviewers from Checkpoint Gaming and Push Square highlight the "gorgeous visual design" and "lavish 2D-pixel character animations," which bring life to the game's characters and interactions. The art direction is noted for evoking nostalgia while maintaining a modern aesthetic, with Eurogamer Germany emphasizing the effective combination of 2D pixel art and 3D backgrounds, particularly during combat sequences. Critics like Hey Poor Player and Hobby Consolas commend the game's vibrant towns and cities, alongside the appealing character designs that contribute to an overall delightful visual experience. However, despite the accolades, several critics have pointed out notable shortcomings in the game's visual execution. Critics such as GamersRD and SpazioGames mention technical limitations, including outdated model designs and low detail in some 3D environments. Issues like poor camera angles, graphical glitches, and inconsistent quality are raised by Metro GameCentral and RPGamer, indicating that while the visuals are appealing, they do not always meet contemporary standards. Additionally, some reviewers, including IGN France and GRYOnline.pl, express concerns about a lack of originality and the presence of recycled animations, which detract from the otherwise charming aesthetic. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes successfully captures a nostalgic essence through its art style, combining classic and modern elements effectively. While the visuals are celebrated for their charm and creativity, as noted by critics like God is a Geek and Twinfinite, the game does face criticism for technical inconsistencies and outdated design choices. The blend of 2D and 3D graphics is generally well-received, with many reviewers acknowledging that despite its flaws, the visual presentation remains appealing and enhances the overall experience of the game.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics praise Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes for its standout voice acting and emotionally resonant soundtrack, enhancing character immersion and gameplay experience. While some tracks are noted as forgettable and voice performances vary, the overall sound design is deemed exceptional, with its emotional depth and immersive qualities largely overshadowing the flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

26%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes have received a largely positive reception from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers have praised the exceptional voice acting, which significantly enhances character immersion and dialogue delivery. For instance, CGMagazine and Checkpoint Gaming both highlight the excellent voice performances that bring life to the characters, contributing to the overall experience. The soundtrack, composed by veterans Motoki Sakuraba and Michiko Naruke, has also garnered acclaim for its emotional depth and variety, with critics like GameOver.gr and GamingBolt noting the beautiful melodies that accompany different gameplay scenarios, particularly during battles. Additionally, IGN Adria and Meristation commend the music for complementing the game's atmosphere effectively, further enhancing the player's emotional connection to the narrative. Despite the overall praise, there are notable criticisms regarding the sound design and music. Some critics, such as Eurogamer Germany and GRYOnline.pl, point out inconsistencies in the quality of the soundtrack, with some tracks being described as forgettable or lacking energy. IGN France notes that while the soundtrack features memorable themes, certain tracks are overused, particularly in battle sequences, which can detract from the experience. Furthermore, while many reviewers appreciate the voice acting, some, like RPG Fan and Wccftech, mention variability in quality, indicating that not all performances are equally compelling. This inconsistency in both music and voice acting has led to a mixed reception in certain aspects of the sound design. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes excels in its sound design and music, with a strong emphasis on the quality of voice acting and a well-composed soundtrack that enhances the gameplay experience. While there are criticisms regarding certain tracks' repetitiveness and the variability in voice acting quality, the positives largely outweigh the negatives. Critics such as TheSixthAxis and Tech-Gaming encapsulate this sentiment by highlighting the emotional impact and immersive qualities of the sound design, suggesting that, despite some flaws, the audio elements contribute significantly to the game's charm and overall enjoyment.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes has been widely praised for enhancing player connection to characters, with critics lauding its quality and the option for both English and Japanese tracks. However, some inconsistencies and mediocre performances were noted, alongside concerns about unvoiced dialogue and voice repetition. Despite these flaws, the overall consensus is that the voice acting significantly enriches the game's narrative and emotional depth, making it a standout feature.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

47%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes has received considerable praise from a variety of critics, highlighting its significant contribution to the game's overall experience. Reviewers like CGMagazine and TheSixthAxis emphasize the quality of the performances, noting that the voice acting helps players connect with the characters and feel invested in their journeys. Critics from multiple outlets, including GamersRD and GAMES.CH, appreciate the availability of both English and Japanese voice tracks, which adds depth and immersion to the narrative. The enthusiasm and execution of the voice acting have been described as "fantastic" (TheSixthAxis) and "awesome" (Movies Games and Tech), with many reviewers noting the unique voices and personalities that each character brings to the table, as highlighted by Push Square and XboxEra. However, not all feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Some critics, such as RPGamer and Tech-Gaming, point out inconsistencies in the quality of the voice acting, particularly with certain characters' accents and performances that may come across as amateurish. IGN France raises concerns about unvoiced dialogues leading to missed information, which could detract from the overall experience. Additionally, RPG Fan mentions that some voice acting feels mediocre and fails to enhance character development, while GamingTrend notes issues with voice repetition and clipping during combat. These criticisms suggest that while the voice acting is generally well-received, there are notable areas for improvement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes features a strong voice acting component that enhances the game's narrative and emotional depth. While there are some criticisms regarding consistency and quality across the cast, the majority of reviewers, including those from COGconnected and GRYOnline.pl, affirm that the voice performances effectively bring characters to life and contribute positively to the gaming experience. The combination of a diverse cast and the option for dual-language tracks appears to resonate well with players, making the voice acting a highlight of the game despite some noted shortcomings.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes delivers solid performance on PS5 and Xbox Series X, but the Nintendo Switch version is plagued by severe issues like frame drops and crashes, making it the least recommended platform. The PC version generally runs well, though it's not without bugs. Critics appreciate the game’s design but call for more optimization across all platforms. Choose your platform wisely for the best experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

70%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

20%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes across different gaming platforms showcases a mix of strengths and weaknesses. On the PlayStation 5, several critics, including Eurogamer Germany and Meristation, noted that the game generally runs well, with no major issues reported, leading to a smooth gameplay experience. Critics like GamingBolt and Hobby Consolas acknowledged the stable performance across platforms, while some minor issues such as small dialogue delays and inventory management were mentioned but did not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment. On Xbox Series X, reviewers like Pure Xbox and TheXboxHub found the game to be polished, with only minor technical issues that did not heavily impact the experience. The PC version received praise for its smooth performance on a wide range of systems, as noted by COGconnected and PC Gamer, with many reviewers reporting no major stability problems. However, the technical performance also has its share of drawbacks across all platforms. On the PlayStation 5, critics like GameOver.gr and RPGamer highlighted issues such as aliasing, blurriness in cutscenes, and long loading times that could hinder the player experience. Similarly, on Xbox Series X, XboxEra reported visual issues and frame drops, indicating that the game is not entirely optimized for this platform. The Nintendo Switch version, however, faced the most criticism, with multiple reviewers including Nintendo Life and PLAY! Zine pointing out significant performance issues such as frame rate drops, long loading times, and bugs that can lead to crashes, making it the least desirable platform for this title. The PC version also faced some criticism, with reviewers like Gamersky and The Games Machine mentioning bugs that affected gameplay and overall enjoyment. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes performs adequately on PS5 and Xbox Series X, the Nintendo Switch version suffers from substantial technical issues that detract from the experience. The PC version generally runs well but is not without its flaws, with various bugs and performance inconsistencies noted by several critics. While many reviewers appreciated the game's artistic design and nostalgic elements, the technical shortcomings across platforms, especially on the Switch, suggest a need for further refinement and optimization. Ultimately, players are advised to consider their platform choice carefully, as the experience can vary significantly.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes boasts extensive content with engaging side quests and nostalgic mini-games, offering 40 to over 100 hours of gameplay. However, critics highlight issues like shallow side quests, repetitive combat, and limited party control, which may hinder replay value. While it appeals to JRPG fans, its replayability varies based on player preferences, raising questions about long-term enjoyment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

37%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions of various critics regarding the replay value of Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes highlight several positive aspects that contribute to its overall appeal. Many reviewers, such as Meristation and RPGamer, emphasize the extensive content available in the game, including a wealth of side quests, character recruitment opportunities, and engaging mini-games. Critics like CGMagazine and Checkpoint Gaming note that the nostalgic side content and mini-games—ranging from fishing to card battling—add layers of gameplay that can keep players entertained beyond the main storyline. Additionally, several reviewers, including IGN and GamingBolt, mention the potential for significant gameplay hours, with estimates ranging from 40 to over 100 hours, which suggests a robust experience for those who enjoy exploring every facet of the game. However, despite the positive elements, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's replay value. Many critics, including Gamer.nl and IGN France, point out that some side quests lack engagement and depth, which could deter players from pursuing multiple playthroughs. The repetitive nature of combat, as highlighted by CGMagazine, and the limited control over party composition mentioned by GAMES.CH, are also concerns that may affect long-term enjoyment. Furthermore, some reviewers, such as Everyeye.it and RPG Fan, suggest that while the game offers character recruitment and side activities, the overall experience may not strongly encourage multiple playthroughs due to a lack of connection to characters and gear management issues. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes offers a mixed bag in terms of replay value. While the game is praised for its extensive content and nostalgic elements that cater to JRPG fans, there are significant concerns regarding the depth of side quests and the repetitive nature of combat. Critics like Malditos Nerds and Metro GameCentral recognize the potential for replayability through character combinations and strategic gameplay, yet many agree that the game may not appeal equally to all players, especially those seeking a more engaging and varied experience. Thus, while the game is rich in content, its replay value may ultimately depend on individual player preferences and their affinity for classic JRPG mechanics.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

52%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

48%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes has garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly for its nostalgic appeal and engaging storytelling. Many reviewers, such as IGN and PC Gamer, highlight the game as a heartfelt tribute to classic JRPGs, capturing the essence of beloved titles like Suikoden. The game is commended for its strong character interactions, captivating narrative, and impressive visuals, with critics like Player 2 and TheXboxHub emphasizing its engaging gameplay and solid production values. Additionally, several reviewers, including Pure Nintendo and CGMagazine, appreciate the game's base-building mechanics and mini-games, which contribute to its overall charm and depth. However, the game is not without its flaws, as many critics point out significant shortcomings that hinder the experience. Eurogamer Germany and GIGA note that while the game may resonate with nostalgic fans, its outdated mechanics and lack of modern conveniences could disappoint newer players. Performance issues are frequently mentioned, particularly by Pure Nintendo and Gamersky, who argue that these technical shortcomings detract from the overall enjoyment. Critics like GameOver.gr and GRYOnline.pl express disappointment in the game's failure to deliver on the quality of story and character development that fans might expect from a spiritual successor to Suikoden. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes successfully appeals to fans of classic JRPGs but struggles to fully meet modern gaming standards. While some reviewers, like Metro GameCentral and Wccftech, find it a solid experience with enjoyable elements for both old and new players, others, such as GameSpew and IGN France, caution that its outdated mechanics and technical issues could alienate a broader audience. Ultimately, the game is seen as a nostalgic homage that, despite its imperfections, holds promise for future installments and remains a worthy title for dedicated fans of the genre.

TL;DR

Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is a nostalgic love letter to classic JRPGs, earning praise for its engaging storytelling, character interactions, and visuals. Critics laud its heartwarming homage to beloved titles like Suikoden, along with fun base-building mechanics. However, it struggles with outdated gameplay, technical issues, and lacks modern conveniences, potentially disappointing newcomers. While loyal fans may appreciate its charm, the game’s flaws could alienate a wider audience. Overall, it’s a flawed yet promising tribute that holds potential for future entries.

MONSTER

Reviews

86 reviews found

100

Hey Poor Player

PlayStation 5

Apr 21, 2024