How Many Hours is Suikoden? A Deep Dive into the Series’ Playtime
The Suikoden series, renowned for its engaging stories, vast casts of characters, and strategic gameplay, offers a diverse range of playtime experiences. The answer to “How many hours is Suikoden?” isn’t a simple one, as it varies significantly across the different titles. Generally, players can expect to invest anywhere from 20 to 60+ hours per game, depending on their playstyle. Those focusing on main objectives can typically complete a Suikoden game in around 20-30 hours, while completionists aiming for 100% can easily rack up playtime in the 40-60+ hour range. Let’s break it down further.
Suikoden Playtime Estimates
The initial Suikoden game is surprisingly short for an RPG, clocking in at around 20 hours for a focused playthrough. However, those striving for a complete experience, including recruiting all 108 Stars of Destiny, will likely spend closer to 27 hours immersed in the adventure. Suikoden II follows a similar pattern, with the core narrative lasting about the same length as the first, though completionist runs tend to also average around 27 hours.
On the other hand, Suikoden IV showcases a noticeable increase in playtime with main objectives typically taking 29½ hours, and 100% completion requiring approximately 43 hours of dedication. While we do not have specific hour information for Suikoden III and Suikoden V, it’s fair to say based on reports from the community they clock in similarily, 30 hours for main objective focused players and 50 hours or more for a completionist playthrough.
It’s worth noting these are just estimates and individual playtime can vary based on factors like exploration, side quest completion, strategic depth in battles, and familiarity with the genre.
Factors Influencing Playtime
Several factors contribute to the variance in playtime across the Suikoden series:
- Playstyle: Players who primarily stick to the main storyline and avoid side content will typically finish much faster than completionists aiming to discover every secret and recruit every character.
- Exploration: The level of exploration undertaken greatly affects game time. Deeper exploration, which may include returning to previous towns will add hours to your gameplay.
- Battles: The time spent in battles and the player’s approach can influence play time significantly.
- Optional Content: The series is brimming with optional quests, mini-games, and hidden characters. The pursuit of these add substantial playtime.
- Familiarity with the Series: Veteran players who are familiar with the game’s mechanics and systems are likely to complete games more quickly than new players.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions providing further insights into the length, gameplay, and other aspects of the Suikoden series:
What is the shortest Suikoden game?
Suikoden I is generally considered the shortest, with completion times around 20 hours for the main story.
What is the longest Suikoden game?
While definitive times aren’t available for all games, Suikoden IV is known for being among the longer titles, reaching 40+ hours for a full completion. It should be noted based on reviews that both Suikoden III and V often run a similar play time.
How many endings does Suikoden 1 have?
Suikoden 1 technically has one ending, but the final picture shown varies depending on whether you recruited all 108 Stars of Destiny.
How does recruiting all 108 Stars affect the game?
Recruiting all 108 Stars of Destiny often unlocks unique events, dialogue, and a slightly different ending sequence. In Suikoden III it provides an extra section to play.
Can I play Suikoden 2 without playing Suikoden 1?
Yes, you can. Each Suikoden game is a stand-alone story set in the same world. However, playing Suikoden 1 first is recommended for a greater appreciation of returning characters and in-game references.
How many years between Suikoden 1 and 2?
Suikoden II takes place 3 years after the events of the original Suikoden.
Why is Suikoden II so expensive?
The high price of Suikoden II stems from its popularity as a beloved RPG, combined with a limited print run.
Why is Suikoden V so expensive?
Suikoden V is expensive primarily due to its limited release, poor initial sales, and the fact that it has never been made available on the Playstation Network.
Is Suikoden 5 a prequel?
Suikoden V is technically a prequel, as its events occur before those of Suikoden I-III. Characters from V appear in earlier titles.
What is the point of no return in Suikoden?
In Suikoden, after completing the dungeon, “Other Cynas” moving into the next town initiates the point of no return, preventing you from going back to certain areas and completing other actions before the final battle.
Are all the Suikoden stories connected?
Yes, the stories are connected in that they take place in the same world. However, they are also standalone games, meaning they can be played in any order.
Is there romance in Suikoden 2?
While Suikoden 2 is filled with adventure and camaraderie, the game does not feature a romance mechanic in the traditional sense.
Is Tir McDohl in Suikoden 3?
Yes, Tir McDohl, the protagonist of Suikoden 1, appears in Suikoden 3. He is tied with the protagonist of Suikoden 2, Riou and Razro as the most recurring Tenkai Stars in the series.
Will Suikoden ever return?
Yes! Konami announced the Suikoden I & II HD Remaster Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars, launching on multiple platforms in 2023, marking the series’ return.
Is Suikoden 1 16-bit?
Suikoden 1’s visuals have a 16-bit feel. While its release was on the Playstation, it could fit well into the SNES era.
Conclusion
The Suikoden series offers a deep and engaging experience, with each game varying in playtime depending on the player’s approach. Whether you prefer a focused main story playthrough or are drawn to complete every side quest and recruit all 108 Stars of Destiny, the series is guaranteed to offer dozens of hours of classic JRPG gameplay. The upcoming remasters of Suikoden I and II are an excellent opportunity for newcomers to embark on this epic adventure.