What does Suikoden mean in Japanese?

Suikoden, which translates to 水滸伝 in Japanese, refers to the classic Chinese novel Water Margin, a highly influential work of literature that has been adapted into various forms of media, including the popular role-playing video game series. The term Suikoden is also used to describe the Fantasy Water Margin, a series of games created by Yoshitaka Murayama, which are loosely based on the original novel and offer a unique gaming experience.

Introduction to Suikoden

The Suikoden series is a beloved collection of role-playing games that has captured the hearts of many gamers worldwide, with its engaging storylines, memorable characters, and turn-based combat system. To provide a deeper understanding of this iconic series, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions that cover various aspects of Suikoden, from its meaning and history to its gameplay and reception.

Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

1. What is the meaning of Suikoden?: Suikoden refers to the classic Chinese novel Water Margin, which has been adapted into various forms of media, including the popular role-playing video game series.
2. What is the Suikoden series?: The Suikoden series is a collection of role-playing games created by Yoshitaka Murayama, which are loosely based on the original novel and offer a unique gaming experience.
3. How many years between Suikoden 1 and 2?: Suikoden II takes place 3 years after the events of the original Suikoden.

Gameplay and Mechanics

4. How big is the party in Suikoden?: Suikoden is a unique series as it usually has a 6 character party, however some games differ in playable party members and support party members.
5. What system is Suikoden on?: The Suikoden series is available on various platforms, including PlayStation, XBOX, STEAM, and Nintendo Switch.
6. Is Suikoden turn-based?: Combat triggers through random encounters and is turn-based, with characters carrying out their actions in the order of their speed.

Story and Characters

7. Is Suikoden story connected?: The stories are connected in the sense that they’re part of the same world, but they’re each standalone games, with no game relying on another.
8. What makes Suikoden special?: Suikoden is unique in that it focuses on real-life situations and conflicts, where there is no inherent evil or villain, just individuals with their own rational motives and principles.
9. What are the three clans in Suikoden?: Politically, the Grasslands are mostly controlled by the Six Clans, a loose coalition between the Karaya, Lizard, Duck, Chisha, Safir, and Alma Kinan clans.

History and Reception

10. Why did Suikoden stop?: Suikoden is a niche game that didn’t attract a large following outside of Japan, which contributed to its eventual hiatus.
11. Is Suikoden 5 a prequel?: Suikoden V takes place before I-III, making it a prequel of sorts for some characters.
12. Is Suikoden 4 a prequel?: Suikoden IV takes place 150 years prior to the first Suikoden, making it the first prequel in the series.

Sequels and Spiritual Successors

13. Should I play Suikoden 3?: Suikoden III is worth playing, as it involves multiple perspectives and allows for more character development.
14. Is Suikoden 3 connected to 2?: Suikoden III can be played without playing Suikoden II, as the stories are independent, but there are some connections between the two games.
15. What is the spiritual successor of Suikoden?: Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is the spiritual successor to the Suikoden series, set to release in April 2024.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Suikoden is a unique and captivating series that offers a rich gaming experience, with its engaging storylines, memorable characters, and turn-based combat system. With its complex world, intricate characters, and real-life situations, Suikoden has become a beloved franchise among gamers, and its influence can still be felt today. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a new player, Suikoden is definitely worth exploring, and with the upcoming release of Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes, the spiritual successor to the series, there’s never been a better time to dive into the world of Suikoden.