Suikoden I&II HD Remaster made me rediscover my fondness for random encounters.

The experience of random encounters in role-playing games (RPGs) has changed significantly over time. Initially, these encounters were a response to hardware limitations, allowing for battles without having to display multiple enemies simultaneously. However, as technology has advanced, many developers have opted to eliminate these encounters in favor of visible enemies in the field, giving players the option to decide when to engage in combat.

With the arrival of modern RPGs, where time is more valuable than ever, these mechanics can become frustrating. Players, especially those managing limited resources for boss fights, prefer not to be forced into battles against minor enemies that only drain life and magical resources. This frustration intensifies when battles are reduced to basic attacks, as more spectacular abilities go to waste.

However, in the context of the remastered Suikoden I&II HD, the situation is different. This classic RPG, loosely based on the book Shui Hu Zhuan, features a dungeon design that addresses these complaints. The dungeons are relatively short and consist of a few spacious rooms with paths leading to treasure chests. This means there are fewer random encounters before facing a boss, allowing for better resource management.

One of the new features of these remasters is the Dash function, which allows characters to move faster without needing to equip a specific item, thus speeding up exploration. Additionally, Suikoden introduced an auto-battle system where characters attack automatically, removing the need to manually select commands for each one. An option to speed up battle pacing has also been included, which makes it easier to get through random encounters.

In contrast, other recent RPGs, such as Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes, face challenges when trying to integrate modern mechanics with retro elements. Eiyuden features longer dungeons and more frequent random encounters, which can be tiring and lead players to consume resources that should be reserved for tougher confrontations. The way save points and health recovery are managed can significantly influence the gaming experience, as can the types of potions available.

Both games share a Rune system, but Suikoden stands out by not having a conventional magic points (MP) system. Runes can be used a limited number of times and only recharge by resting at an inn, allowing players to manage their magic without worrying too much about losing it in trivial encounters. This contrasts with Eiyuden, which, although it has a more typical MP system, faces issues due to a lack of items that restore magic.

Despite the fact that the Suikoden series features a more basic random encounter system, these have proven to be less frustrating compared to games that implement more complex mechanics. Ultimately, the intelligence behind Suikoden's level design and resource management seems to have ensured that the gaming experience, even in its most classic form, remains appealing today.

Suikoden I&II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars will be released on March 6 for PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, and PC.