Should I play all Suikoden games?

Should I Play All Suikoden Games?

The Suikoden series is a beloved RPG franchise that spans multiple decades and has captivated players with its engaging stories, lovable characters, and addictive gameplay. With several games in the series, new players might wonder: "Should I play all Suikoden games?"

In this article, we’ll explore the connections and standalone nature of each game in the series, so you can decide which approach suits you best.

Can I Play Suikoden Games Out of Order?

A common misconception about the Suikoden series is that you need to play the games in a specific order to fully understand the story. This isn’t entirely true. Each game has its unique story, characters, and setting, which allows you to play them in any order you like.

However, playing the games out of order might affect your overall understanding of the world and its lore. Characters, locations, and events are referenced across multiple games, but these references are rarely essential to understanding the core story of a particular title.

Is There a Recommended Play Order?

If you want to follow the story’s progression or get the most out of the series, we recommend playing the games in release order:

1. Suikoden I (PS1, 1995)
2. Suikoden II (PS1, 1999)
3. Suikoden III (PS2, 2002)
4. Suikoden IV (PS2, 2004)
5. Suikoden V (PS2, 2006)
6. Suikoden: Tactics (PS2, 2006)
7. Suikoden VI (Delayed/Cancelled)

Keep in mind that Suikoden: Tactics is a tactical RPG spin-off, not a mainline game.

What If I Just Want to Play One Suikoden Game?

If you’re new to the series or don’t want to commit to multiple games, we recommend playing Suikoden II or Suikoden V. These games are widely regarded as some of the best in the series and can be enjoyed independently.

• Suikoden II: This game is a fan favorite for its engaging story, lovable characters, and challenging gameplay.
• Suikoden V: This game introduced 3D graphics and refined the battle system, making it an excellent introduction to the series.

Point of No Return in Suikoden

Some fans may be worried about progressing too far in a game and being unable to return to earlier areas or storylines. Fear not! In most Suikoden games, you can always revisit earlier areas or access previous storylines after completing the main story.

The only exception is Suikoden I, where you’ll reach a point of no return around 70% through the game. At this point, you’ll need to make significant progress before accessing new areas, so it’s essential to be aware of this milestone.

Conclusion

Playing all Suikoden games can be a rewarding experience, but it’s not necessary. If you’re new to the series or prefer a single-player experience, focus on Suikoden II or Suikoden V. If you’re up for a longer commitment, follow the release order and explore the series’ nuances.

FAQs:

• Q: Do I need to play all Suikoden games?
  A: No, each game is standalone, but playing them out of order might affect your understanding of the world’s lore.
• Q: Is Suikoden VI still being developed?
  A: No, the game was officially cancelled in 2017.
• Q: Is Suikoden: Tactics worth playing?
  A: While it’s a decent game, it’s a spin-off and not considered a mainline Suikoden title.
• Q: Can I play Suikoden games on current consoles?
  A: Not all Suikoden games are available on modern consoles. However, some are available through re-releases, digital stores, or fan-made projects.

Table: Suikoden Games by Release Order

TL;DR

Play the Suikoden games that interest you, and enjoy the series on your own terms. With its diverse gameplay and engaging stories, you’re bound to find something that suits your gaming style. Happy gaming!