Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes leans into the enduring appeal of classic JRPGs, skillfully blending nostalgia with innovative gameplay and a captivating narrative. Developed by Rabbit & Bear Studios and published by 505 Games, it marks a significant milestone in the genre, particularly for fans of the Suikoden series, as it is helmed by Yoshitaka Murayama, the creator of Suikoden. We checked it out on a PlayStation 5.
At its core, Eiyuden Chronicle beckons players into the rich tapestry of Allraan, a land shaped by the intricate alliances and rivalries of humans, beastmen, elves, and desert people. The narrative kicks off with Nowa, a fresh recruit to The Watch, a group of mercenaries led by the seasoned beastman Garr. Joined by the enigmatic Mio and the spirited Lian, Nowa’s journey unfolds against the backdrop of escalating conflict and the pursuit of ancient artifacts coveted by the Galdean Empire.
One of the game’s standout features is its robust party system, allowing players to control up to six characters simultaneously. While initially daunting, the seamless integration of multiple characters in combat adds depth and strategy to encounters, reminiscent of classic JRPGs despite the multi-character emphasis. The dynamic camera angles during battles inject a sense of visual excitement, amplifying the impact of each attack and fostering engagement with the action.
Furthermore, Eiyuden Chronicle introduces strategic elements beyond traditional turn-based combat. War scenarios shift the gameplay dynamics, resembling real-time strategy games, as players command legions in large-scale conflicts. Additionally, the recruitment of diverse characters injects personality into the journey, with each hero contributing a unique set of abilities and backstory.
Visually, the game strikes a harmonious balance between pixel art characters and detailed environments, evoking a nostalgic charm while maintaining modern aesthetics. The music, ranging from somber melodies to epic battle anthems, complements the narrative beats, enhancing immersion and emotional resonance.
But while Eiyuden Chronicle excels in many aspects, it’s not without its challenges. The controls can feel cumbersome, and certain difficulty spikes, especially in prolonged boss battles, may test your patience and resource management skills.
Nevertheless, Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes offers a solid blend of nostalgia and innovation. With its compelling narrative, engaging gameplay mechanics, and vibrant cast of characters, it’s a must-play for fans of the genre and a worthy successor to the legacy of Suikoden. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or new to the world of RPGs, Eiyuden Chronicle is an unforgettable journey through the lands of Allraan.
Score: 8.0/10
Press Play Media 