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Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars
Item: Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresRPG, Anime and JRPG, Single Player

AvailableMar 6, 2025

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

DeveloperKonami

Overview

A hero's destiny is written in the Stars. The legendary Konami JRPGs Suikoden I and Suikoden II have now been remastered in HD!

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Suikoden I & II HD Remaster is largely praised for its rich narratives and character development, particularly in Suikoden II, which captivates with its emotional depth and complex themes of war and rebellion. Critics appreciate its immersive storytelling and enhanced visuals but note flaws in Suikoden I, citing shallow characters and pacing issues. Despite these criticisms, the remaster successfully brings these classic tales to a new audience, reaffirming their relevance and impact while maintaining a positive reception overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

77%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

23%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the story of Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars is largely positive, with many critics praising its engaging narratives and rich thematic content. Reviewers like Checkpoint Gaming and IGN Italia highlight the depth of the stories, emphasizing themes of war, rebellion, and personal growth. Critics such as SpazioGames and GamingBolt commend the character development, particularly in Suikoden II, which is noted for its emotional depth and complex antagonists. The interconnectedness of the narratives, as pointed out by Siliconera and Loot Level Chill, adds an extra layer of engagement, making the experience more immersive for players. The remaster's ability to maintain the essence of the original while enhancing character illustrations has also been positively noted by critics like Vandal. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the narrative's execution and depth, particularly in Suikoden I. Critics like Nintendo Insider and The Jimquisition argue that the story lacks depth and surprises, with some characters feeling flat or underdeveloped. Inverse points out the vagueness in execution and the presence of stock characters, which detracts from the overall narrative experience. Additionally, several reviewers, including GameSpot and Noisy Pixel, mention pacing issues and a somewhat juvenile handling of themes in the first game, suggesting that while the stories are engaging, they do not always resonate with the same impact as more modern narratives. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that Suikoden I & II HD Remaster offers a compelling and engaging storytelling experience, especially in Suikoden II, which is often regarded as the stronger of the two. Many reviewers, including GamingTrend and PC Gamer, appreciate the blend of supernatural elements with the harsh realities of war and politics, while also acknowledging the emotional weight of the characters' journeys. The remaster has successfully introduced these classic narratives to a new audience, allowing both veteran fans and newcomers to appreciate the depth and relevance of the stories, as noted by critics like Digitally Downloaded and Nintendo Life. Overall, the remaster has been well-received, with a strong emphasis on its narrative strengths, despite some lingering issues from the original games.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Suikoden I & II HD Remaster impresses with its strategic turn-based combat and user-friendly quality-of-life improvements, earning praise for character recruitment and nostalgic charm. However, critics flag persistent issues like a dated interface, tedious inventory management, and lackluster encounter design, making the remaster feel less polished. While it honors the classics, it fails to modernize enough to captivate both new players and series veterans, resulting in an enjoyable but ultimately unremarkable experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

60%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

40%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars has garnered a mixed response from critics, with several positive aspects highlighted across various reviews. Many reviewers, including IGN Italia and GamingBolt, praised the turn-based combat system, noting its strategic depth and the ability to experiment with different character combinations. The introduction of quality-of-life improvements, such as auto-battle options, increased battle speed, and enhanced movement mechanics, has been well-received, with critics like GamingTrend and Vandal acknowledging how these features make the gameplay more user-friendly. Additionally, the unique character recruitment system, which allows players to gather a diverse cast of over 100 characters, adds a layer of depth and engagement to the overall experience, as noted by Finger Guns and GamersRD. However, the remaster is not without its shortcomings, as many critics pointed out several persistent issues that detract from the gameplay experience. RPG Fan and The Jimquisition highlighted the archaic interface and limited choices due to narrative constraints, which can make the gameplay feel dated. Critics like COGconnected and Nintendo Insider echoed concerns regarding cumbersome inventory management and bland encounter design, which can lead to frustration during gameplay. Furthermore, while some quality-of-life enhancements were introduced, several reviewers, including Eurogamer Germany and Game8, felt that more significant updates were needed to address longstanding annoyances, leaving the gameplay experience feeling less polished than it could have been. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Suikoden I & II HD Remaster retains the charm and core mechanics of the original games, it struggles to fully modernize the experience. Many reviewers appreciate the nostalgic elements and the strategic nature of the combat, as seen in opinions from RPGamer and Checkpoint Gaming, but there is a clear call for more substantial improvements to inventory management and interface design. The remaster is seen as a solid homage to the classics, yet it falls short of delivering a fully refined experience that could appeal to both new players and long-time fans alike. Critics like IGN Spain and Nintendo Life emphasize that while the remaster adds some enhancements, it ultimately retains many of the original's limitations, leading to a gameplay experience that is enjoyable but not groundbreaking.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Suikoden I & II HD Remaster impresses with enhanced graphics and nostalgia, particularly in Suikoden II, yet suffers from inconsistent visuals and a lack of cohesive design. Critics praise modernization but lament missed opportunities, like switching between original and remastered styles. Overall, it’s a solid effort but may not fully satisfy purists of the original aesthetics.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

58%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

40%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars reflects a blend of appreciation for the enhancements made and nostalgia for the original aesthetic. Several critics, such as Finger Guns and Nintendo Life, highlight the successful modernization of character portraits and backgrounds, noting that the remaster retains the charm of the original pixel art while introducing higher resolution graphics. Critics like Hobby Consolas and GAMINGbible commend the visual improvements, especially in Suikoden II, which is often described as vibrant and visually stunning. The remaster's ability to blend retro aesthetics with modern quality, as pointed out by Areajugones, is seen as a significant positive, contributing to a visually appealing experience. However, the remaster is not without its criticisms. Many reviewers, including The Jimquisition and Gamesurf, express disappointment over the lack of cohesion between character sprites and backgrounds, leading to a disjointed visual experience. Critics like PC Gamer and GameSpot note the inconsistency in graphical upgrades, particularly highlighting that Suikoden 2 appears more polished compared to the more basic visuals of Suikoden 1. Additionally, the absence of an option to switch between original and remastered visuals is mentioned by Digitally Downloaded and Multiplayer.it as a missed opportunity, which could have allowed players to appreciate the original art style alongside the new enhancements. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while the remaster introduces notable improvements and retains the nostalgic essence of the original games, it also suffers from inconsistencies and clashes in visual design. Critics like GamingBolt and IGN Turkey recognize that Suikoden II generally benefits more from the visual upgrades than Suikoden I, which leaves some feeling that the remaster does not fully realize its potential. The mixed reviews suggest that while the remaster is a commendable effort, it may not satisfy all fans of the original titles, especially those who hold the original aesthetics in high regard.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics largely praise the enhanced audio in Suikoden I & II HD Remaster, highlighting improved music quality and nostalgic appeal. However, issues like awkwardly speeding up battle music and the absence of voice acting have left some fans wanting more. Overall, the remaster enriches the experience but still has notable flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

68%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars have garnered a largely positive reception among critics, highlighting the enhancements made to the audio experience. Reviewers such as Cultura Geek and Atomix praised the improved music quality, vocal pieces, and sound effects that significantly enhance immersion. Many critics, including GAMINGbible and Hobby Consolas, noted that the soundtrack remains a standout feature, with its evocative nature and nostalgic appeal resonating with fans of the original games. The remaster's inclusion of high-quality recordings and the ability to listen to the original soundtracks in a dedicated gallery, as mentioned by Nintendo Life, further enriches the overall experience. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the sound design, particularly concerning the speed-up feature during battles. Critics like Nintendo Insider and Eurogamer Germany pointed out that the music speeds up awkwardly when battles are accelerated, detracting from the overall audio experience. This issue has been echoed by multiple reviewers, including PC Gamer and GameBlast, who expressed disappointment that this design oversight affects the enjoyment of the music. Additionally, the absence of voice acting has been highlighted as a missed opportunity by IGN Turkey and Game8, indicating that while the remaster improves upon many aspects, it still leaves some fans wanting more. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the Suikoden I & II HD Remaster successfully enhances the audio experience through improved sound design and a well-preserved soundtrack. While the remaster has received acclaim for its nostalgic and immersive qualities, the criticisms regarding the battle music speed-up and the lack of voice acting suggest that there are areas for improvement. The positive feedback from reviewers like RPGamer and Vandal underscores the remaster's quality, but the recurring issues mentioned indicate that the audio experience, while largely successful, is not without its flaws.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

TL;DR: Suikoden I & II HD Remaster impresses with smooth performance and quality-of-life upgrades across platforms, notably on Switch and PC with stable frame rates and enhancements. However, critics universally slam the outdated save systems and buggy auto-save features, which detract from the overall experience. While the remaster shows promise, it falls short of modern standards, indicating significant room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

25%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

In analyzing the technical performance of Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars across different platforms, there are notable positives for each. On the Nintendo Switch, several critics, including IGN Spain and Nintendo Insider, highlight the game’s smooth performance, with a locked frame rate of 30 FPS that is well-suited for this genre. Critics like NintendoWorldReport and Siliconera commend the remaster for running smoother than the original PlayStation version, with quality-of-life improvements such as sped-up battle animations and auto-saving features. On PC, Atomix and Worth Playing note that the game achieves stable 60 FPS and includes various quality-of-life enhancements, contributing to a generally smooth gameplay experience. Meanwhile, on PS5, critics like Gameliner and Vandal emphasize the remaster's stability, fast load times, and effective bug fixes, which enhance the overall experience. Despite these positives, there are significant negatives across all platforms. On the Nintendo Switch, critics like GAMINGbible and Hobby Consolas express frustration with the outdated save system, which can lead to potential loss of progress due to the poorly implemented auto-save feature. Impulsegamer and SpazioGames also mention that the sporadic nature of the auto-save can create frustrating gameplay experiences. For the PC version, reviewers such as IGN Turkey and Loot Level Chill point out issues with the save system and navigation challenges, indicating that technical performance could be improved. Additionally, some bugs and minor grammatical errors were noted by GamingTrend and IGN Italia, although they were not deemed detrimental to the overall experience. On PS5, while the performance is generally stable, critics like Player 2 and RPGamer highlight persistent issues with inventory management and the auto-save function, which detracts from the overall convenience expected in modern remasters. Overall, the consensus among critics across all platforms is mixed but leans towards a positive reception of the technical performance of Suikoden I & II HD Remaster. While there are commendable improvements in stability and quality-of-life features, many reviewers express concerns regarding the outdated save systems and the implementation of auto-save features, which can hinder gameplay enjoyment. Critics like The Jimquisition and RPG Fan reflect a sentiment that, despite the remaster's successful execution in many areas, it still lacks some modern conveniences that would elevate the experience further. Therefore, while the remaster is generally well-received, it appears that there is room for improvement, particularly in addressing the technical shortcomings related to saving mechanics across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

The Suikoden I & II HD Remaster receives mostly positive reviews for its strong replay value, driven by an engaging character recruitment system and multiple endings. Critics highlight its appeal to both newcomers and veterans, bolstered by nostalgic elements. However, some concerns about dated mechanics and a cumbersome inventory system may limit long-term interest for certain players. Despite mixed opinions, the remaster is praised for its rich storytelling and character interactions, making it a worthwhile experience for fans of the genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay 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 replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars is predominantly positive among critics. Many reviewers highlight the engaging character recruitment system, which allows players to recruit over 100 characters, as a significant factor enhancing replayability. Critics like Cultura Geek and Hobby Consolas emphasize that the ability to explore multiple endings and the inclusion of a gallery for story sequences and music further enrich the experience. Additionally, the remaster is praised for appealing to both newcomers and veterans, with IGN Spain noting that the option to choose difficulty levels makes the game accessible to a wider audience. The nostalgic value of the remaster, as pointed out by GAMINGbible and others, also plays a crucial role in encouraging players to revisit the titles. However, not all reviews are as enthusiastic about the replay value. Some critics express concerns about the dated mechanics and lack of significant new features, which may limit long-term engagement. For instance, The Jimquisition notes that the replay value is somewhat diminished due to these outdated elements. Similarly, Nintendo Insider mentions a lack of desire to replay the game after completing it, indicating limited replay value for some players. The cumbersome inventory system is also highlighted by IGN Turkey as a potential deterrent for players looking to experiment with different strategies, which could further impact the overall enjoyment of replaying the games. Despite the mixed opinions, the overall consensus among critics is that Suikoden I & II HD Remaster offers a solid replay value, particularly for fans of the genre. Many reviews underscore the importance of the story, character interactions, and the ability to recruit all 108 Stars of Destiny, which provides a compelling reason for players to dive back into the games. Critics like RPGamer and Vandal affirm that the engaging narratives and character combinations significantly enhance replayability, making the remaster a worthwhile experience for both new players and those nostalgic for the original titles. Overall, while there are some criticisms regarding the remaster's limitations, the positive aspects of character recruitment and storytelling resonate strongly across the board.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment towards the Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars is largely positive, with many critics appreciating the nostalgic value and the opportunity to experience these classic JRPGs on modern platforms. Critics like GAMINGbible and PC Games commend the remaster for its engaging story and nostalgic charm, highlighting that it remains a worthwhile experience for both newcomers and longtime fans. GamingTrend and Nintendo Life also echo this sentiment, noting that the remaster successfully brings timeless RPG classics to a new audience while maintaining their brilliance, despite minor issues. The remaster is often described as a solid package, with GameSpot and Gamesurf recognizing the strong narratives and gameplay that make it a must-play for genre enthusiasts. However, the remaster is not without its flaws, as many critics point out significant shortcomings in the modernization efforts. PC Gamer and Inverse express disappointment, stating that the remasters do not fully meet the expectations set by the originals, lacking substantial improvements and polish. Critics like Game8 and IGN Turkey note that while the remaster provides access to two beloved RPGs, it misses opportunities for modernization, leading to a sense of disappointment. Furthermore, My critic name is The Jimquisition and GAMINGbible mention that the first game feels dated and simplistic compared to modern standards, which detracts from the overall experience. The overall consensus among critics is that while the Suikoden I & II HD Remaster is a commendable effort to revive classic titles, it falls short of fully modernizing the experience. Many reviewers, such as Areajugones and RPGamer, recognize it as a satisfactory remaster that enhances the original experience, though it lacks some user interface improvements and quality of life features. Despite these shortcomings, the remaster is generally seen as a worthwhile experience for fans of the genre, with Cultura Geek and Wccftech emphasizing that it successfully balances nostalgia with modern enhancements. Ultimately, the remaster serves as a nostalgic tribute to the originals, appealing to both dedicated fans and new players, even if it doesn't reach the heights of other modern remasters.

TL;DR

The Suikoden I & II HD Remaster is a nostalgic hit, delighting fans with its classic charm and compelling stories, making it a must-play for RPG lovers. However, critics note it falls short in modernization and polish, lacking significant improvements and quality of life features. While it successfully revives the originals for a new audience, it doesn't fully meet expectations, leaving some disappointed. Overall, it's a solid tribute to the classics, appealing to both newcomers and veterans, despite its flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

97 reviews found

100

Digitally Downloaded

Nintendo Switch

Mar 12, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The remaster of Suikoden I & II is celebrated for its narrative and accessibility, despite some graphical shortcomings and the challenge of character development. It is recommended for both new players and fans of the original games.

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RPG Fan

PlayStation 5

Mar 4, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Despite some shortcomings in gameplay adjustments, the remaster is still recommended for its storytelling, visuals, and music, making it a worthy purchase for fans.

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GameSpew

PlayStation 5

Mar 4, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Suikoden 1 & 2 HD Remaster is a wonderful package that revitalizes two classic RPGs, making them essential for both fans and newcomers.

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Voxel

Mar 7, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Overall, the remaster is seen as a gift for fans of the franchise and classic RPGs, balancing nostalgia with modern elements, though it lacks Portuguese localization and may be complex for new players.

Worth Playing

Mar 5, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Suikoden I & II HD Remaster is an excellent port of two classic RPGs, with numerous improvements and a charming experience that appeals to both new players and longtime fans.

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RPG Site

PlayStation 5

Mar 4, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Suikoden I&II HD Remaster successfully captures the essence of the originals while enhancing certain aspects, making it a worthwhile experience for both returning fans and newcomers.

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GameGrin

PlayStation 5

Mar 21, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The remaster is praised as an excellent treat for turn-based RPG fans, especially for those who appreciate the original titles.

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Wccftech

Mar 4, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The remaster is an excellent update that enhances the timeless appeal of the original games, making it a worthy purchase for JRPG fans.

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Vandal

PlayStation 5

Mar 5, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Suikoden I & II HD Remaster is a must-play for JRPG fans, successfully modernizing a classic while retaining its original charm and depth.

GamingTrend

Mar 4, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Suikoden I & II HD Remaster is a successful revival of classic JRPGs, enhancing graphics, gameplay, and audio while preserving the original's charm. It's a must-play for fans and newcomers alike.

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