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MONSTER

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: Critik Editorial Team

2025

GenresRPG, Anime and JRPG, Single Player

AvailableMar 6, 2025

PlatformPC, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch

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

Critics laud Suikoden I & II HD Remaster for its rich storytelling, political themes, and character depth, especially in Suikoden II. Though Suikoden I faces criticism for outdated writing and pacing issues, the remaster successfully enhances emotional stakes and retains the series' classic essence, appealing to both newcomers and returning fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

78%

Mixed (50-79)

22%

Negative (0-49)

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

The story of Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars has received a largely positive reception from critics, who commend its rich narrative and thematic depth. Many reviewers, such as IGN Italia and Wccftech, highlight the game’s exploration of complex political themes, personal growth, and moral ambiguity, which sets it apart from typical JRPG narratives. The ability to recruit 108 characters, known as the Stars of Destiny, adds a unique layer to the storytelling, as noted by Multiplayer.it and GamersRD. Critics like PC Gamer and RPG Fan appreciate the blend of supernatural elements with the harsh realities of war, emphasizing how the remaster enhances the emotional stakes and character development, making the narrative even more compelling. However, there are some criticisms regarding the execution of the story, particularly in Suikoden I. Inverse points out that the writing can feel outdated, with vague character motivations and stock characters detracting from the overall experience. GameSpot echoes this sentiment by noting that while Suikoden II offers better character development and plot progression, Suikoden I lacks depth and can feel fast-paced without sufficient emotional weight. Additionally, some critics, like Noisy Pixel, mention pacing issues and underdeveloped characters in Suikoden I, which may hinder the narrative's impact for certain players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Suikoden I & II HD Remaster presents a compelling and engaging story that resonates well with players, particularly in Suikoden II. Despite some criticisms regarding the pacing and character development in the first game, the majority of reviewers, including those from PC Games and Push Square, agree that the remaster successfully maintains the essence of the original narratives while enhancing the overall experience. The blend of political intrigue, personal relationships, and the moral complexities of war creates a rich tapestry that appeals to both new players and veterans of the series, solidifying its status as a classic in the JRPG genre.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Suikoden I & II HD Remaster delivers a satisfying blend of nostalgia and modern gameplay enhancements, winning praise for quality-of-life improvements like auto-saves, dashing, and streamlined combat options. Critics commend its engaging character recruitment and strategic depth but note weaknesses in combat impact and outdated mechanics. While some inventory management issues persist, the remaster successfully appeals to both veterans and newcomers, making it a compelling experience despite its flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

70%

Mixed (50-79)

30%

Negative (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 been generally well-received, with numerous critics highlighting several positive aspects. Critics from GamingTrend and Areajugones praised the introduction of quality-of-life improvements, such as auto-save features before major battles, dashing from the start, and enhanced combat options like auto-battle and double speed, which significantly improve the overall gameplay experience. The remaster retains the original mechanics that fans love while providing streamlined combat options, making it appealing to both new and returning players, as noted by IGN Italia. Additionally, the unique character recruitment system and strategic depth of combat, as highlighted by Finger Guns and PC Gamer, contribute to a rich gameplay experience that many players find engaging. However, despite the positive reception, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the gameplay. Inverse and Jeuxvideo.com mentioned that while the combat system is traditional and retains its charm, it feels less impactful in today’s gaming landscape, lacking the depth and excitement that modern players might expect. Critics like COGconnected and RPG Fan pointed out frustrations with inventory management and controls, which can detract from the overall experience. Furthermore, some reviewers, including Noisy Pixel and Multiplayer.it, noted that certain mechanics, such as the War Battles and the character death system, could be tedious or outdated, suggesting that the remaster did not fully address these lingering issues. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that Suikoden I & II HD Remaster successfully revitalizes the classic gameplay with modern enhancements while retaining its core charm. While the remaster introduces valuable improvements that enhance the experience, such as faster battles and quality-of-life features, it also struggles with some outdated mechanics and inventory management issues. Critics like Vandal and Push Square appreciate the balance between nostalgia and modernity, acknowledging that while the remaster has its flaws, it still offers a compelling and enjoyable experience for both longtime fans and newcomers to the series.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Suikoden I & II HD Remaster receives mostly positive reviews for its impressive graphical upgrades and nostalgic preservation, with critics praising enhanced textures and animations. However, inconsistencies between the two games and a clash of old and new aesthetics spark some criticism, leaving a mixed impression on visual cohesion. While many hail the remaster as a revitalizing effort, it falls short of the high bar set by recent remasters in the genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

52%

Mixed (50-79)

48%

Negative (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 is largely positive, with many critics praising the significant graphical enhancements made to the original titles. Critics like GamingTrend and Wccftech highlight the successful re-rendering of scenes in 16:9, improved textures, and animations that breathe new life into the classic games while preserving their nostalgic feel. The remaster's commitment to maintaining the original aesthetic while enhancing pixel art and backgrounds is noted by IGN Italia and Finger Guns, who appreciate the blend of retro and modern qualities. Additionally, several reviewers, including Areajugones and GameSpew, commend the visual appeal of the remaster, emphasizing the crisp character sprites and beautifully redrawn environments that contribute to a more immersive experience. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the remaster's visual consistency and execution. Some critics, such as PC Gamer and GameSpot, point out that the graphical upgrades are inconsistent, particularly between the two games, with Suikoden II receiving more favorable treatment than Suikoden I. The clash between high-resolution backgrounds and unchanged character sprites is highlighted by GameSpot, leading to an awkward visual experience. Furthermore, critics like Loot Level Chill and Gamesurf express disappointment in certain aspects of the design, suggesting that while some elements have been modernized, others feel outdated or lack the charm of the original. The absence of an option to toggle between original and remastered graphics, as noted by Multiplayer.it, also detracts from the overall experience for some players. In summary, the consensus among critics is that the Suikoden I & II HD Remaster successfully enhances the visual presentation of the beloved classics, with many appreciating the updated graphics and modernized elements. However, the inconsistency in quality, particularly between the two titles, and the clash of old and new aesthetics have led to mixed feelings about the overall execution. While many reviewers, including RPG Fan and Push Square, celebrate the improvements made, others like Noisy Pixel and Gamesurf express concern over the lack of cohesion in the visual design. Overall, the remaster is seen as a commendable effort that revitalizes the series, even if it doesn't fully meet the high standards set by other recent remasters in the genre.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Overall, Suikoden I & II HD Remaster gets high marks for its sound design and music, with critics celebrating enhanced audio quality and a vast soundtrack of 163 tracks that elevate the gaming experience. While some argue that the battle speed-up feature disrupts immersion and that some sound effect changes are subtle, the remaster largely preserves the original charm while enhancing clarity. Critics agree that the improvements contribute positively to gameplay, making the audio experience a standout element of the remaster.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

79%

Mixed (50-79)

21%

Negative (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the sound design and music of Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars is largely positive, with many critics praising the enhancements made in this remaster. Critics like GamingTrend and Finger Guns highlighted the upgraded audio quality, noting that the enhanced sound effects and retouched soundtrack contribute to a more immersive experience. IGN Italia emphasized the historical significance of the music, calling it some of the best in JRPG history, and appreciated the remaster’s feature that allows players to enjoy the soundtrack separately. Furthermore, reviewers such as Worth Playing and GamersRD noted the improved clarity and the extensive catalog of 163 tracks available in HD format, which collectively enrich the auditory experience and complement the game’s atmosphere. However, there are some notable criticisms regarding the audio experience. PC Gamer and Wccftech pointed out that while the music remains largely intact, the option to speed up battles can negatively impact the audio experience, with Wccftech mentioning that the combat music speeding up can be jarring. RPG Site echoed this sentiment, stating that while the arrangements are beautiful, the speed-up feature can disrupt the immersion. Additionally, while many reviewers praised the sound effects, some, like RPG Fan, mentioned that the adjustments made were subtle and did not significantly alter the original charm. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of Suikoden I & II HD Remaster are commendable and enhance the gaming experience. The majority of reviewers agree that the remaster successfully retains the essence of the original soundtrack while improving the overall audio quality. Critics such as Jeuxvideo.com and Vandal noted that the enhanced ambient effects and the rich diversity of the music contribute positively to the gameplay. This collective appreciation suggests that, while there are minor drawbacks, the remaster has successfully elevated the auditory experience, making it a highlight of the game for many players.

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

The Suikoden I & II HD Remaster shows mixed technical performance across platforms. The PC version offers quality-of-life improvements but suffers from bugs, slow mechanics, and outdated save systems. Conversely, the PS5 version is praised for its stability and faster load times, though it still has some limitations. Overall, the PS5 is the standout platform, while the PC version needs significant enhancements to match its counterpart.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

22%

Mixed (50-79)

78%

Negative (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars has garnered a mix of opinions from critics across different platforms. On PC, several reviewers noted positive aspects, such as the inclusion of quality-of-life improvements, which enhance the overall experience. For instance, Worth Playing highlighted features like faster combat and auto-save functionalities, contributing to a smoother gameplay experience. TheSixthAxis described the remaster as polished and accessible, indicating a generally good technical performance. Similarly, GamingTrend and IGN Italia acknowledged that while there are bugs and minor grammatical errors, patches have been released to address these issues, suggesting a commitment to improving the game post-launch. However, the PC version is not without its drawbacks. Critics pointed out various technical issues that hinder the experience, such as slow walking mechanics and navigation challenges, as noted by Loot Level Chill. PC Gamer emphasized a lack of modern conveniences, like save anywhere options, which could detract from the overall enjoyment. Multiplayer.it criticized the traditional save system as inflexible, which could negatively impact gameplay. Overall, these critiques suggest that while there are improvements, the technical performance on PC still has room for enhancement. On the PS5, the consensus appears more favorable, with many reviewers praising the remaster's stability and performance. Vandal noted significant improvements, including nearly nonexistent loading times, while GamersRD and Finger Guns highlighted the smooth gameplay and quality-of-life enhancements. However, some critics, such as Gamesurf and RPG Site, pointed out lingering issues, like limited save options and the absence of certain modern features that could enhance the gameplay experience. Despite these criticisms, overall sentiment leans towards a positive reception for the PS5 version, with many acknowledging the remaster as a solid effort that still retains some quirks of the original games. In conclusion, while both platforms feature notable strengths, the PS5 version generally receives a more favorable assessment in terms of technical performance, with critics recognizing both improvements and areas needing further refinement.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Critics generally praise the replay value of Suikoden I & II HD Remaster, highlighting engaging stories, character recruitment, and save file transfers as key incentives for revisiting the games. However, concerns about limited new content and gameplay issues like inventory management may deter some players. While the remaster is a nostalgic and worthwhile experience for fans, its appeal isn't universal, with mixed opinions on whether it justifies multiple playthroughs.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

55%

Mixed (50-79)

45%

Negative (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 largely positive among critics. Many reviewers, including GamingTrend and Multiplayer.it, highlight the games' encouragement of completionist runs, particularly the recruitment of all 108 characters, which adds depth and motivation for players to revisit the titles. The remaster's engaging storylines and character interactions are frequently cited as significant factors enhancing replayability, with critics like Wccftech and RPG Fan emphasizing that both newcomers and veterans can find enjoyment in exploring different character combinations and narratives. Additionally, the ability to carry save files between the two games, as noted by Worth Playing, further incentivizes players to engage with both titles, enriching the overall experience. However, several reviewers express concerns regarding the replay value stemming from the remaster's limited new content. Inverse and PC Gamer point out that while nostalgia plays a crucial role in attracting players back, the lack of substantial new features may not justify multiple playthroughs for some. Critics like Finger Guns and Jeuxvideo.com mention that certain gameplay elements, such as cumbersome inventory management, could deter players from fully engaging with the remaster, potentially affecting long-term replayability. Furthermore, while some critics acknowledge the games' relatively short length as a positive for replays, others suggest that this brevity could limit the depth of experience for those seeking extensive gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Suikoden I & II HD Remaster offers solid replay value, particularly for fans of the series and genre. The combination of engaging stories, character recruitment mechanics, and the ability to transfer save data between games creates a compelling reason to revisit these titles. However, the mixed opinions on the remaster's new content and some gameplay frustrations indicate that while the replay value is significant, it may not be universally appealing to all players. Critics like GamersRD and RPG Site encapsulate this sentiment well, noting that the depth of the stories and the thrill of recruitment make the remaster a worthwhile experience, albeit with some caveats.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

81%

Mixed (50-79)

19%

Negative (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its successful revival of classic JRPGs. Reviewers like GamingTrend and Wccftech highlight the remaster's enhancements in graphics, gameplay, and audio, emphasizing that it retains the charm of the originals while making them accessible to both new players and long-time fans. Critics from IGN Italia and Worth Playing echo this sentiment, noting the timeless quality and engaging narrative that make the remaster a worthwhile experience. The nostalgic appeal is a recurring theme, with many reviewers feeling that it effectively rekindles fond memories while modernizing certain aspects of the gameplay. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the remaster's execution. Inverse points out that while the remaster is nostalgic, it ultimately feels like a missed opportunity for a more significant update, as it retains several flaws from the original games. PC Gamer expresses disappointment, stating that the remasters do not fully meet the expectations set by the originals, lacking significant improvements and polish. Other critics, such as GameSpot and Gamesurf, mention inconsistencies in visuals and missed opportunities for quality-of-life enhancements, indicating that while the remaster is enjoyable, it could have been more polished. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Suikoden I & II HD Remaster is a commendable effort that successfully honors the legacy of the original games while providing modern enhancements. Most reviewers agree that it is a must-play for JRPG fans, with Vandal and RPG Site emphasizing the balance between modernization and retaining the essence of the originals. Despite some criticisms regarding dated mechanics and visual inconsistencies, the majority of critics find it a worthy purchase that revitalizes two beloved classics, making it an essential title for both newcomers and returning fans alike.

TL;DR

Suikoden I & II HD Remaster earns positive reviews for successfully reviving classic JRPGs with enhanced graphics, gameplay, and audio, while preserving their nostalgic charm. Critics praise its engaging narrative, making it a must-play for fans. However, some note missed opportunities for significant updates and quality-of-life improvements, pointing out flaws from the originals. Overall, it's a commendable effort that balances modernization with classic essence, appealing to both newcomers and long-time fans.

MONSTER

Reviews

81 reviews found

RPG Fan

PlayStation 5

Mar 4, 2025