Suikoden II

 PlayStation
  • Publisher: Konami
  • Release Date: Sep 29, 1999
User Score
9.1

Universal acclaim- based on 321 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 294 out of 321
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 321
  3. Negative: 20 out of 321
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  1. MrDavidBen
    Sep 12, 2014
    10
    Have to admit that as a J-RPG fan this game has pretty much everything that you could want in a roleplay game. After playing it countless times I find it very hard to find fault with in the experience of playing Suikoden II.

    Strong plot, interesting characters (of which most are actually playable, with there being 108 to recruit) and the game is presented so well. A wonderful score by    Have to admit that as a J-RPG fan this game has pretty much everything that you could want in a roleplay game. After playing it countless times I find it very hard to find fault with in the experience of playing Suikoden II.

    Strong plot, interesting characters (of which most are actually playable, with there being 108 to recruit) and the game is presented so well. A wonderful score by Miki Higashino with memorable and mood setting pieces.

    The game has six member part battles much like the original, strategic war battles and a number of mini-games and side quests which can either result in plot based rewards or new characters joining your army of stars.

    Suikoden II rates in as perhaps one of the best role-play games I have ever played and is timeless in the fact that I can come back and play it over and over... years after it's original release. It corrects and improves on a number of things from the original though I have to admit that there are some translation errors but it's hardly something that really effects the game.

    I seriously recommend picking this game up if you love a good plot and fun characters who will surprise you with depth (especially if you've played the later entries in the series). Konami released a winner with Suikoden II, countless modern JRPGs have tried to match it but so many have failed.    … Expand
  2. gabrielbduarte
    Oct 12, 2015
    10
    One of the best RPG i have play in my life! A epic history combine with a excellent gameplay with a amazing graphic and soundtrack! The Rpg world need more ''Suikodens''
  3. MikeMcD
    Dec 7, 2014
    10
    Suikoden II is a wonderful RPG. The storyline is the JRPG version of Game of Thrones, with twists and turns throughout. This game is a must-play for any RPG fan, especially since it is now available on the PSN after being very difficult to find since it's release. Give it the time, experience the cooking mini-game, and recruit all 108 characters. It's worth it, and it was worth the waitSuikoden II is a wonderful RPG. The storyline is the JRPG version of Game of Thrones, with twists and turns throughout. This game is a must-play for any RPG fan, especially since it is now available on the PSN after being very difficult to find since it's release. Give it the time, experience the cooking mini-game, and recruit all 108 characters. It's worth it, and it was worth the wait for anyone that was unable to play it because of it's lack of availability for the last ~15 years… Expand
  4. Darker5
    Jul 14, 2014
    10
    Even though it was released in the late 1990's, it is still one of my favorite games today. An immersive storyline, quick loading times, solid soundtrack, fair graphics, and a customizable turn-based combat system make this an enjoyable play. In addition, the side missions are plenty, and most add even more depth to the characters of the game. Getting a used physical copy of this game willEven though it was released in the late 1990's, it is still one of my favorite games today. An immersive storyline, quick loading times, solid soundtrack, fair graphics, and a customizable turn-based combat system make this an enjoyable play. In addition, the side missions are plenty, and most add even more depth to the characters of the game. Getting a used physical copy of this game will cost you over $100 at the present time, but if it does make its way to the PSN pick this game up. It's an underrated classic.… Expand
  5. theavidgamer
    Jul 30, 2015
    10
    If there was ever a game to give a 10 to (not just in metacritic terms, but a real perfect 10), this game is it. If you love amazing plot twists and a mature story, deep, relatable characters and want a memorable experience playing an engrossing RPG, this is as good as it gets. This game is the epitome of RPG games. The size of it's playable characters is just simple enough that it becomesIf there was ever a game to give a 10 to (not just in metacritic terms, but a real perfect 10), this game is it. If you love amazing plot twists and a mature story, deep, relatable characters and want a memorable experience playing an engrossing RPG, this is as good as it gets. This game is the epitome of RPG games. The size of it's playable characters is just simple enough that it becomes addicting to recruit all 108 (unlike games like Chrono Cross where it can be a chore). The variety of gameplay elements is a treat--there is a cooking game, you can collect vases to show off in your very own hot bath, the main base grows as you progress, etc. Multiple combat modes (TBS, 6-party turn based, 1 vs 1 tactical combat (similar to that of Uncharted Waters from SNES (a great game I should add), and an amazing Unite system which allows you to mix and match different characters to find cool combos. This game honestly has it all.

    It is an absolute steal as well to have this game available for Vita for 9.99!!! Graphics has aged well too, especially on the Vita screen where it is just the right aspect ratio, and you can play it on the go, meaning random battle encounters don't get so tedious. The soundtrack as well has some of the most memorable songs of all time as well! Tracks like "Reminiscence" still give me goosebumps after all these years, and the OST is on the same level as Chrono Trigger, FFVI/IX/X, etc. Finally, the main villian is quite possibly one of the most insane villains of all time (rating among Kefka from FF6, Geoffrey from Game of Thrones, you get the idea..). I would recommend this game for anyone of any age.

    To be very, very critical and think about some of its flaws, I would say pacing at times can get pretty slow with a little back tracking here and there (typical RPG-fare), and some of the grammar in the script is a bit dated. But overall, it is a near flawless game. It is sad games like FF7 and Skyrim are so highly acclaimed, but Suikoden 2 is forgotten at times as one of the RPG greats. Even if you don't have access to the first game, this is definitely a must play, 10/10. Happy gaming!    … Expand
  6. metadud
    May 16, 2017
    10
    One of the best RPGs ever released, hands down. My personal favorite JRPG along with the Chrono series. Everything about it is amazing, but the story is the great masterpiece here.
  7. TemudjiN
    Apr 12, 2016
    10
    one of the best games of JRPG from PS1. When i play this game with FF 7 in my chilhood. Is never late for a review for a big tittle like this, i till waiting for Suikoden 6
  8. lik
    Aug 15, 2017
    10
    Greatest RPG ever made. Period. Unique story. Fun gameplay. Intense combat and likable characters. I love this game and no one other jrpg don't be like that. This is the best.
  9. Ninjo
    Nov 19, 2014
    10
    Suikoden II in my opinion is one of the greatest RPG's I've ever played, and I'm privileged to be a holder of such a great game which I will explain shortly, the amount of content included in a game of this size is generally astonishing as you can max out over 30 hours on the story alone and still be gasping for more afterwards.

    I remember as a child playing this for the first time when    Suikoden II in my opinion is one of the greatest RPG's I've ever played, and I'm privileged to be a holder of such a great game which I will explain shortly, the amount of content included in a game of this size is generally astonishing as you can max out over 30 hours on the story alone and still be gasping for more afterwards.

    I remember as a child playing this for the first time when RPG's where the FPS's of now; so I played the likes of the Final Fantasy franchise and Shining Force to name a few. So I didn't really know what to expect when playing, I was so attached with the characters and usually the toughest part of the game was selecting a party of 6 characters out the possible 50+ available. Sometimes I would dress up as the "Hero" and became closely attached to sticks that look like Tonfa's.

    The game seems a lot like a kids game but that view is quickly dismissed with the dark nature of the story with evil characters who kill helpless civilians and depressing hanging scenes. As I a kid I loved it surprisingly, though the years of therapy to make me socially acceptable again hahaha.

    My final review on this game would be to pick this game up and play it, if your an avid RPG fan and if your not you should defiantly give this game a try. You can also buy it as a financial investment because its price will defiantly rise the less and less there are available around the world. I'm keeping mine till the day I die, can't sell a game with such memorable moments plus its 15 years old and had it took long it can move out when its18 haha

    Thanks for reading my review of Suikoden II PS1

    Ninjo    … Expand
  10. mdzapeer
    May 3, 2013
    10
    Ones of the best games I have ever played, I will always remember this game. Story, game play, yes even the beautiful 2D graphics and music all come together to create unforgettable experience. Must play, right up there Chrono trigger as the best RPGs of all time, maybe even the best games off all time.
  11. Captain_Acid
    Jul 18, 2012
    10
    What words can describe Suikoden II Amazing, Stunning, Fantastic, Awesome, Absolutely Incredible, it's all of this and more i could spend ages talking about the detail, the characters, the city's, the strategic battles and the fun glitches well there is only one of these i know of actually but the thing i think caught my attention the most was the music just superb i love it i could playWhat words can describe Suikoden II Amazing, Stunning, Fantastic, Awesome, Absolutely Incredible, it's all of this and more i could spend ages talking about the detail, the characters, the city's, the strategic battles and the fun glitches well there is only one of these i know of actually but the thing i think caught my attention the most was the music just superb i love it i could play this game over and over there are so many characters to try although some seem useless i am sure they are not this game is one of my all time favourites and it was the first of the series that i played which is funny so Suikoden II it's a name i will always cherish and whenever i hear that song Homesickness i always feel at home.… Expand
  12. theamity9
    Sep 17, 2014
    10
    Truly the only game that deserves a perfect 10/10. Not to say that it isn't flawless, but it's much closer to a 10 than a 9. Going to get the flaws out of the way first, because they're nothing major at all and even somewhat expected by the JRPG genre in it's given era. The worst thing about Suikoden 2 is the translation. There's some obviously typos and just awful translations from theTruly the only game that deserves a perfect 10/10. Not to say that it isn't flawless, but it's much closer to a 10 than a 9. Going to get the flaws out of the way first, because they're nothing major at all and even somewhat expected by the JRPG genre in it's given era. The worst thing about Suikoden 2 is the translation. There's some obviously typos and just awful translations from the Japanese original to English (can't speak for Spanish, Chinese, German etc). Apart from that, there's nothing wrong as far as I can tell. While it shouldn't be seen as a hinder to the game itself, it's extremely expensive to play it in a language apart from Japanese at a cost effective price given it's short print run and lack of digital medium. (PlayStation Network)

    Music, pacing, flow, learning curve, everything is just perfect. However, the part which Suikoden II shines most in is in it's story and characters. Nothing, can compare. Suikoden II just doesn't have my favourite video game story and character development, but my favourite of any given media medium ever. Chances are if you're reading this, you know of Suikoden II's story, but on the off chance that you don't I highly recommend playing the game as blindly as possible. You will not regret.

    It's a shame Konami has abandoned the Suikoden series. Maybe one day we will see it re-released or a Suikoden VI. But I won't count on it.    … Expand
  13. Sintjago
    Jul 5, 2015
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game is one my best childhood memories and gaming experiences. Collecting all the 108 Stars of Destiny was a challenge. It include not only 6 player turn-based battles, but also larger army battles and duels. The mini-games in the castle and customization made it incredibly fun. There were 108 NPC that could join your team, and most were pretty unique and a welcome addition to the team. The game had a good main story which captivated you from the beginning, and many other side-quests such as fighting a vampire army which enhanced the experience further. I enjoyed all Suikoden games but Suikoden II remains my favorite. Hopefully Suikoden VI (someday) is even better!… Expand
  14. Wolfie1987
    Mar 24, 2014
    10
    So much love for this game, it's like the Chrono Trigger for the PSX (if you forget about Chrono Cross for a sec). This game will look and play amazing until the end of time, ageless masterpiece.
  15. Ydun79
    Feb 11, 2019
    10
    What an experience. The many characters, interesting and deep storyline, wars to fight. A remake with modern day graphics would be very popular. Love it!
  16. Kirillito
    May 28, 2016
    8
    One of the best games you can find on PS1. A masterpiece for its time and console.
    The story is not without holes, but the number of great characters that are actually designed (by design I mean characters motivations and background) much better than most characters you can find in "modern" video games, this whole castle of great characters is overwhelming.
    The strategic battles are even    One of the best games you can find on PS1. A masterpiece for its time and console.
    The story is not without holes, but the number of great characters that are actually designed (by design I mean characters motivations and background) much better than most characters you can find in "modern" video games, this whole castle of great characters is overwhelming.
    The strategic battles are even more fun than they were in S1, Lots of mini-games, challenging final boss, more options for customization with runes and many other pluses comparing to the first game in the series.
    If you would play this on PS Vita, then this game is a "10" and a must have. My current score is a 2016 score for PS1 game.    … Expand
  17. MattAttack218
    Jun 20, 2020
    10
    To this day my favorite PS1 game of all time and easily one of my favorite RPGs ever. Has great replay ability. A definite must play.
  18. jonoleta
    May 12, 2020
    10
    I think it is my favorite game after Suikoden III. Story is greatly built, with an amazing amount of characters to recruit, many of them with a profound background which makes this game unique.
  19. kelvin0922
    Jun 22, 2020
    10
    This is the best RPG game that I have ever played. Loved everything about this game, the characters, the story, the game play, everything!!!!
  20. apannilsson
    Mar 15, 2016
    10
    Characters, story and music. It all looks cute. But it's so much deeper. This is easily one of my all time favorite games.
    The game expands on the original and everything looks better and works better.
    The fighting system is simple, but allows for a lot of personal taste on what type of strategy you like.
    And to collect the characters and make the right decisions is so much fun.
  21. TemplarGR
    Sep 30, 2016
    10
    By far the best PS1 rpg. And i have played them all, back when they were released. Too bad it was handled poorly by Konami, was released only in 50k copies in NA and wasn't released in Europe.

    The story is one of the best in any game to this day, music is great, the graphics are cute and have aged quite well considering it was on the PS1. The gameplay is very good for its time and    By far the best PS1 rpg. And i have played them all, back when they were released. Too bad it was handled poorly by Konami, was released only in 50k copies in NA and wasn't released in Europe.

    The story is one of the best in any game to this day, music is great, the graphics are cute and have aged quite well considering it was on the PS1. The gameplay is very good for its time and genre.

    An underrated gem, if you can stomach the old graphics, you have to play it.    … Expand
  22. Chameleon187
    Jun 10, 2018
    10
    A masterpiece. One of the best if not the best RPGs of all time. Graphics still hold up today as 2D.
  23. darksoul20012
    Jun 26, 2020
    0
    Nicht so großartig. Die Geschichte ist nicht ohne Löcher, aber die Anzahl der großartigen Charaktere, die tatsächlich entworfen wurden (mit Design meine ich die Motivationen und Hintergründe der Charaktere), ist viel besser als die meisten Charaktere, die man in modernen Videospielen finden kann ", dieses ganze Schloss mit großartigen Charakteren ist überwältigend.
  24. helladarionx
    May 26, 2021
    10
    O melhor jogo da minha vida. acho que ja terminei umas 30 vezes e nunca paro de jogar de novo
  25. KaraC.
    Mar 8, 2005
    10
    I love Suikoden!! Both the 1st and the 2nd are the BEST!! I haven't tried the 3rd or 4th yet but I can't wait!! I heard they're even better!! lol, see ya!!
  26. Seesha
    Dec 9, 2005
    10
    I thought this game was so great. I been trying to perfect the past years and I'm almost there!
  27. ZacharyE.
    Apr 14, 2005
    10
    Iv'e played this game and to me it is so great because it is a mixture of adventure, action and heartbraking tradgedies but my favourite is how you get to use your skills of knowledge when it comes to stratergy fights.
  28. HuxleyH.
    Jul 8, 2007
    10
    In my humble opinion, Suikoden II is the single best game ever made. An incredible plot and cast, gorgeous graphics (The good thing about sprites is that they age pretty well), an amazing soundtrack, perfect gameplay... this game hasn't been beaten yet, and I doubt it will.
  29. HikaruS
    Jul 10, 2009
    10
    Masterpiece. No game ever made can beat it's plot, that even with some clichès, makes a genial use of them. Even if you have a new-generation console, you'll not be wasting your time playing this. Solid gameplay and soundtrack, marvellous storyline, charismatic characters(and a great variety of it), beautiful visual for the "magics"(that were implemented in a interesting Masterpiece. No game ever made can beat it's plot, that even with some clichès, makes a genial use of them. Even if you have a new-generation console, you'll not be wasting your time playing this. Solid gameplay and soundtrack, marvellous storyline, charismatic characters(and a great variety of it), beautiful visual for the "magics"(that were implemented in a interesting way), a couple of different endings... With some of it based on the ancient chinese literary, more specifically on "Shu?h? Zhuàn"(Suikoden in japanese, Water Margin in english). So yes, you can expect much of this, unless you are a unbrained action(and maybe childish) games die-hard fan.… Expand
  30. Stu
    Oct 19, 2004
    10
    Best rpg ever... seriously, hands down. Slightly better than the first, far better than the third, greatness.
  31. SamiE.
    Jan 29, 2005
    10
    This is the Beautiful Game. Suikoden II's execution is perfect. Simple, yet elegantly effective gameplay, a multi-layered storyline about people, not politics, and a varied, touching musical score make Suikoden II Yoshitaka Murayama's masterpiece.
  32. CassieB.
    Jan 17, 2008
    10
    I work at a GameStop and have 11 systems AND nearly 250 games (not to mention the ones I've rented from work), so I've played a LOT of games. And out of all the games I've played, this has got to be one of my all time favorites...if not my favorite. The entire game is amazing and for some reason once I start playing I just can't stop. It's a rare thing indeed that I work at a GameStop and have 11 systems AND nearly 250 games (not to mention the ones I've rented from work), so I've played a LOT of games. And out of all the games I've played, this has got to be one of my all time favorites...if not my favorite. The entire game is amazing and for some reason once I start playing I just can't stop. It's a rare thing indeed that I give a game a 10 out of 10, but this is one of those rare occasions. If you even remotely like RPG's, you owe it to yourself to find this rare game.… Expand
  33. ShionL.
    Oct 3, 2008
    10
    The thing about this game is that you can play it over and over and still find something new. It is such a wonderful game, but I do recommend playing Suikoden I first inorder to get the best out of the game. I love this game, what more can I say.
  34. ShaunF.
    Jan 6, 2008
    10
    I have played an large number of games, in any genre you care to mention, and have never seen any come as close to this masterpiece. It is the strongest in the series by a mile, the sequals cannot match it, and it improves on the already excellent original. Any RPG I play is measured against Suikoden 2, and none have come close to even challanging it. Marvellous graphics, a very engaging I have played an large number of games, in any genre you care to mention, and have never seen any come as close to this masterpiece. It is the strongest in the series by a mile, the sequals cannot match it, and it improves on the already excellent original. Any RPG I play is measured against Suikoden 2, and none have come close to even challanging it. Marvellous graphics, a very engaging story with great depth and a fantastic sound track. I have replayed this game numerous times, and have never failed to be anying but wowed on each playthrough. Truly legendary.… Expand
  35. DanM.
    May 2, 2008
    10
    Amazing!!! This is a game with a good story behind it and characters that just fall into place their own personalities and characteristics. This is a game i wouldn't mind popping in my playstation 2 or 3 and start it back up for ol' time sakes.
  36. JowyK.
    Jul 21, 2004
    10
    Very good game with a good story and nice anime. Along with over a hundred characters to choose from youll find yourself asking on who will yopu go with or will you left behind coz almost all of them are very cool especially the sexy Ellie and powerful Georg Prime.
  37. VidM.
    Feb 28, 2005
    10
    It just doesn't get better than this. This is my favorite RPG, and I have played quite a few. I play through this game at least once a year and love it every time. I cannot say that for any other game. Truly a masterpiece in storytelling, style, and gameplay.
  38. CallieR.
    May 18, 2006
    10
    The follow-up to the original Suikoden enable you to import data from the first game into the second installment. Suikoden II may be longer than the original, but the story, graphics, and high replay value gives Suikoden II high marks on my account.
  39. AndréN.
    Nov 18, 2007
    10
    Without a doubt the game I've appreciated the most out of all the games I've played. The characters. The gripping story. The beautiful music. Marvellous! Thank you, Konami.
  40. NickDaWOlf
    Aug 4, 2020
    10
    This is the ultimate RPG for me. A quirky enjoyable cast of characters, a deep involved storyline of political intrigue, friendship and betrayal, the best base building ever, probably the best soundtrack ever in an rpg also. It's the best 40 hours I've ever spent gaming. That's why I make sure I beat it once every year.
  41. iKen
    Apr 12, 2020
    8
    Played on PlayStation.
    Gameplay: GREAT.
    Story: GREAT.
    Graphic: GOOD.
    Music/Sound: GOOD.
    Dialogue: GREAT.
  42. MusicCream
    Jul 28, 2013
    9
    Best game in the series. One of the best RPGs ever. Truly a masterpiece, its flaws are nothing compared what this game brings in terms of plot line. If Konami worked harder in this game, certainly it would be the best RPG in PSOne.
  43. Denijel
    Feb 14, 2019
    10
    Absolutely one of the best video game stories out there. Packed in a cute little J-RPG form that catches you by surprise only an hour into the game (Die pig!). I recommend it to anyone who likes to be bedazzled with a crafty storytelling and a set of memorable characters.
  44. marvs869
    Mar 11, 2017
    9
    I never played this when it came out but I have to say that this is one of the more timeless epics in gaming I have ever played. So much of comes to the story of betrayal, corruption, ambitions and even genocide that made me understand how gaming can impact so much of our perspectives. I wish I could score this a ten but I will never know what it's like back when it released. Still anI never played this when it came out but I have to say that this is one of the more timeless epics in gaming I have ever played. So much of comes to the story of betrayal, corruption, ambitions and even genocide that made me understand how gaming can impact so much of our perspectives. I wish I could score this a ten but I will never know what it's like back when it released. Still an amazing game for me… Expand
  45. vahvandall
    Jan 20, 2019
    10
    I'm a big fan of Chrono Cross, Xenogears and the FFs, but Suikoden II is hands down the best RPG for the PS1. The gameplay is excellent, but the story is what does it. It's a personal experience that hasn't been overcome by any other game to this date. Thrilling and beautiful. A masterpiece, plain and simple.

    ps: if you haven't played the first one, don't bother, it's good but nothing    I'm a big fan of Chrono Cross, Xenogears and the FFs, but Suikoden II is hands down the best RPG for the PS1. The gameplay is excellent, but the story is what does it. It's a personal experience that hasn't been overcome by any other game to this date. Thrilling and beautiful. A masterpiece, plain and simple.

    ps: if you haven't played the first one, don't bother, it's good but nothing like this one and not necessary to understand anything. Play it afterwards out of curiosity and for some background.    … Expand
  46. Rikuson1
    Jul 27, 2019
    8
    Pros
    72 Playable Characters
    Auto Battle Feature Improvement of 16 Bit Sprite Animations, really expressive Sprinting now not being locked behind a Rune like in the first game Even Cooler Rune Magic Attacks and Unite Magic Attacks Being able to move your save data from the first game is cool (even though I wasn’t able to) Different Endings are executed very well and are quite    Pros
    72 Playable Characters
    Auto Battle Feature
    Improvement of 16 Bit Sprite Animations, really expressive
    Sprinting now not being locked behind a Rune like in the first game
    Even Cooler Rune Magic Attacks and Unite Magic Attacks
    Being able to move your save data from the first game is cool (even though I wasn’t able to)
    Different Endings are executed very well and are quite emotionally good
    Great Villain Luca Blight

    Cons
    Encounter Rate (7/10) High
    Second Half of the game (story wise imo) fell short after which is after Luca Blight’s death
    World Map Sprinting still locked behind a Rune
    The Dialogue Options during Dual Fights did not necessarily match what they there going to do next, dual fights also don’t last long enough to leave a memorable impacting experience or methodical challenge thought and lastly the amount of dialogue for each category (10 for each 30 in total) is not utilize for since duals only last about a couple (1 to have 4 strikes on you or your opponent) not many duals take place in the overall game leaving unheard dialogue extremely high and a complete waste

    Nitpicks
    Certain characters join your cause and the game wouldn’t even notify you that they’ve join
    Dialogue Options for the main character are lazy too many options consist of “.....” or “Forget about it” to the point where it’s hard to get a grasp of who the main character is. This was not an issue in Suikoden 1. If they were trying to portray the main character as a projection of the player then this can debatable but even if they did decide to take that route, it doesn’t change the fact that it’s way too consistent that the dialogue.
    Although there is a tablet where you can see all of the Stars of Destiny you have recruited there is no total number telling you how many you have recruited so far basically forcing you to manually count all of them if you want to know how much you have recruited at that given moment.
    Riou and Jowy’s ambitions were way too similar to the point where (for me) it’s hard to understand why they couldn’t come to a non-violent conclusion seeing as though they were best friends, it felt force to have the Jowy character become the antagonist for the sake of having a conflicting drama force conclusion of some kind.    … Expand
  47. Timbone
    Feb 1, 2020
    10
    This is what a sequel should be. This is what a JRPG should be. Suikoden 1 was a great game. But Suikoden 2 was like "hold my beer". And then they blew this game out of the park. The storyline is a continuation of Suikoden 1. Even going so far to adding a hidden character in this game (especially if you played the first one). The storyline is superb. It had me feeling for the characters.This is what a sequel should be. This is what a JRPG should be. Suikoden 1 was a great game. But Suikoden 2 was like "hold my beer". And then they blew this game out of the park. The storyline is a continuation of Suikoden 1. Even going so far to adding a hidden character in this game (especially if you played the first one). The storyline is superb. It had me feeling for the characters. This game is so very, very good.… Expand
  48. gqmasters3
    May 11, 2019
    9
    I wish I could give this game a "10", but Suikoden V is a "10" and I don't consider this one quite as good. Still, this game is fantastic and the mock Iron Chef side game is the best side game of any game ever. It is a near masterpiece front to back and the only bad things I can really say are that it is a tad on the easy side and if you blink you will miss your chance to get the bestI wish I could give this game a "10", but Suikoden V is a "10" and I don't consider this one quite as good. Still, this game is fantastic and the mock Iron Chef side game is the best side game of any game ever. It is a near masterpiece front to back and the only bad things I can really say are that it is a tad on the easy side and if you blink you will miss your chance to get the best ending. Everything else is top notch.… Expand
  49. JoaleJG
    Jun 20, 2020
    10
    This game is perfect with amazing history and soundtrack. This game need a remaster.
  50. MazrimTaim14
    Oct 7, 2019
    9
    Great story, characters, gameplay and music. What more could you ask for in an RPG.

    The grand scale of war and politics is a great addition to the game. Its not only a ragtag bunch of misfits but a defense of a nation against one of the most memorable villains in rpgs history, Luca effin Blight. A remaster with an added path for Jowy like what they did in Suikoden III will be great.    Great story, characters, gameplay and music. What more could you ask for in an RPG.

    The grand scale of war and politics is a great addition to the game. Its not only a ragtag bunch of misfits but a defense of a nation against one of the most memorable villains in rpgs history, Luca effin Blight.

    A remaster with an added path for Jowy like what they did in Suikoden III will be great.

    A must play game.    … Expand
  51. Kyrostad
    Jun 21, 2020
    10
    Best game of all time for me. Played it a lot as a kid and now playing it again I can appreciate the magic and battling systems. The story is what takes the cake though because of all the politics and different takes on the war. It really asks deep questions that are more in line with modern storytelling in games. I recommend playing the first one then the second but you don’t have to. IBest game of all time for me. Played it a lot as a kid and now playing it again I can appreciate the magic and battling systems. The story is what takes the cake though because of all the politics and different takes on the war. It really asks deep questions that are more in line with modern storytelling in games. I recommend playing the first one then the second but you don’t have to. I didn’t as a kid. But seeing the improvements makes me love it more. Also a lot of characters return to finish their arcs.… Expand
  52. Juveleo
    Jun 21, 2020
    10
    Still one of the greatest JRPG's off all time. Greatest story with amazing characters. I've beaten this game countless times dating back to 1998 and i still play it at least once year. If you want to experience a timely classic with fantastic storytelling and great gameplay, Suikoden 2 is a must play for every JRPG lover
  53. otakumhgamer
    Jun 18, 2021
    10
    this game is a MASTERPIECE its one of the best games that i ever played dont let meta score fool you you have to play it so you will understand this MASTERPIECE
  54. GeneralTeo
    Jun 20, 2020
    10
    Great story and lots of fun characters to choose from. Very few games with this kind of cast.
  55. kyancookie
    Jun 20, 2020
    10
    It is a masterpiece that was way ahead of it’s time. Everyday i am hoping that Konami Remaster it with current gen graphics
  56. bozomojo
    Jun 20, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Deep story with several heart wrenching endings, 108+ recruitable characters, and a simple yet fun battle/magic system. Absolutely one of my favorite games ever.… Expand
  57. JimJamJar
    Jun 21, 2020
    10
    Best PSX RPG ever. The story is gripping, the sprites are delightful and I will never go a year without a replay.
  58. Shryke
    Jun 21, 2020
    10
    Best game ever made. Collecting characters, fighting monsters and GoT level politics. Crazy
  59. Osamu
    Jun 21, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Best game ever made! Hoping for a remaster! Not onky for Suikoden 2 but for the entire Suikoden Series!… Expand
  60. Mulletzila
    Jun 21, 2020
    10
    This is what i consider to be as close to perfect a video game can be. It is my all time favorite game and if love JRPGs and have not played this you are doing yourself a disservice.
  61. Radu_Magus
    Jun 21, 2020
    10
    Friendship. Politics. Revolution. War. A game ahead of its time. Graphics have aged well, the story remains captivating and the soundtrack is amazing. If you like JRPGs, this is a must and one of the all-time best.
  62. Divinevert
    Jun 21, 2020
    10
    Greatest game ever. From the moment it begins until the moment it ends, you are captivated by the adventures of Riou, Jowy, and Nanami.
  63. al-hina
    Jun 22, 2020
    10
    all the feels,
    simply
    masterpiece,
    ..................
    may God bless us all~
  64. Goodspeed87
    Jun 23, 2020
    10
    One of the most masterfully executed games of all time. One of the most well-written, maniacal villains ever but also a story that extends well beyond a simple heroes vs villain narrative. A sweeping political story full of intrigue and fascinating characters. The score is brilliant and the features, like castle development and recruitment of 108 heroes, are thrilling. The central themesOne of the most masterfully executed games of all time. One of the most well-written, maniacal villains ever but also a story that extends well beyond a simple heroes vs villain narrative. A sweeping political story full of intrigue and fascinating characters. The score is brilliant and the features, like castle development and recruitment of 108 heroes, are thrilling. The central themes run deep and this’ a sequel that builds upon and enhances the first (and the universe as a whole) in stride.… Expand
  65. Omnae
    Aug 25, 2020
    10
    Hands down one of the most well-told story-driven jrpgs of all time. From start to finish you're hit with cascading layers of new game elements, characters, and plot developments. I've played it several times of over and still find something new to enjoy each playthrough. One of the best comparisons I've heard, that I completely agree with is that its Game of Thrones meets Final Fantasy.Hands down one of the most well-told story-driven jrpgs of all time. From start to finish you're hit with cascading layers of new game elements, characters, and plot developments. I've played it several times of over and still find something new to enjoy each playthrough. One of the best comparisons I've heard, that I completely agree with is that its Game of Thrones meets Final Fantasy. Trust me you will not be disappointed by this masterpiece.… Expand
  66. r3giment
    Dec 8, 2020
    10
    There are a hundred games that should be better than Suikoden 2. I can think of a dozen of RPGs that SHOULD be better than Suikoden 2.

    But that's just not the case. This game is timeless as my most recent playthrough in 2020 attests that my opinion has not changed of this game.

    I believe it is not only the greatest RPG created, it just might be the greatest game of all time.
  67. SaberHazari
    Jun 29, 2021
    10
    The story is amazing, the charcters are rich, the gameplay is really fun for an rpg and the soundtracks are just excellent... this and suikoden V are why I love this series so much
  68. kleberson777
    Aug 14, 2022
    10
    There's still no JRPG to surpass this game in my book.
    Excellent story with war, political issue, ideology, and betrayal
    Every character has its own unique background story The soundtrack is one of the best by Miki Higashino and I've never found anything similar to that anymore. It use traditional instrument that hit you in the feeling and it's so relaxed, making the game cities feel    There's still no JRPG to surpass this game in my book.
    Excellent story with war, political issue, ideology, and betrayal
    Every character has its own unique background story
    The soundtrack is one of the best by Miki Higashino and I've never found anything similar to that anymore. It use traditional instrument that hit you in the feeling and it's so relaxed, making the game cities feel more alive, scene is more emotional and hyping up the combat even though there's no VA in this game
    The combat is direct upgrade from the first one with faster pace since more than one character move at same time, its ahead of its time.
    Side content is fun and interesting, giving various thing to do and giving you more lore to explore.
    If you're JRPG fans, you'll be missing a lot if you skip this MASTERPIECE    … Expand
  69. Bruninho1997
    Oct 26, 2021
    9
    Um clássico, belíssimo e maravilhoso clássico.
    O jogo possui um ótimo enredo, uma bela trilha sonora, e gráficos pixelados lindíssimos.
    O único ponto negativo que vou ressaltar é o fato de que as vezes o jogo te "deixa na mão", sem você saber para onde deveria ir, seja por falta de qualquer indicação ou por questões de diálogos que não te ajudam com essa questão.
  70. JiR
    Jun 4, 2023
    10
    Maybe one of my most favorite games the games is full of mini games Some good Ass stories good pixel animation and cool gameplay . Suikoden 2 is a materpiece
  71. OverlordBel
    Jan 18, 2022
    5
    So after years ignoring the Suikoden series, I finally decided to give in and try out what people consider to be the best in the series. And to some, even one of the best JRPGs ever made. Many Top JRPGs lists out there have Suikoden 2 in really high positions, so I thought to myself I was in for a great time. Sadly, and to my surprise, that was not the case at all.
    Suikoden 2 fails to    So after years ignoring the Suikoden series, I finally decided to give in and try out what people consider to be the best in the series. And to some, even one of the best JRPGs ever made. Many Top JRPGs lists out there have Suikoden 2 in really high positions, so I thought to myself I was in for a great time. Sadly, and to my surprise, that was not the case at all.
    Suikoden 2 fails to deliver a engaging and original story. What it has is a very average story about two friends eventually fighting against each other in a war for peace. I seen it before, you seen it before, it has been done many times, and in Suikoden 2 it is not done very different.
    But that is not the main problem. I could have enjoyed the story if the game had focused more in the protagonist relationship with his friend, instead of repeatedly sending you all over the map to meet uninteresting characters that have no personality at all. Suikoden 2 tries to introduce too many characters and ends up not developing the ones that actually matters.
    The dialogue, while not terrible, suffered from very rough translation to english, so many times during the game you read typos or straight up nonsense sentences, and at times dialogues are short and uneventful, like you are watching robots communicating. The main group of characters that join you all feel distant from one another and they never change, as if they are not comrades fighting together in a war.
    Now do I even dare to talk about everything else in this game?
    Graphics are nothing special, just the usual 2D sprite visuals, which are done well but thats about it. For the time it came out, jrpgs with 3D models like FF7 and Legend of Legaia already existed, so Suikoden 2 was already outdated compared to its competitors.
    The OST is just fine. I bet even the most hardcore fans of this game will not defend the bland music in this game.
    Gameplay is another point where Suikoden 2 just feels outdated. Combat system does nothing that hasnt been done before, cities and dungeons are just boring and not rewarding to explore at all, you spend a long time running from one place to another until you get fast travel way later in the story, random battles are constant and the combat system being so barebones really makes fights a real chore to do. One thing Suikoden 2 does that I can say is unique are the duel battles and the strategy battles, which actually fit well with the war plotline.
    I could go on and on but the review has a limit of letters and I think I don't need to expand further.
    Suikoden 2 is a low budget and extremely overrated JRPG that might be good as an entry level title of the genre, but when compared to other jrpgs it is just not worth the time to play.    … Expand
  72. perrypulus
    Mar 13, 2022
    10
    Probably the best PS JRPG game. The twist, quest, mini quests, The 108 stars of destiny, make Suikoden II as a legend of JRPG
  73. Kyald
    Apr 24, 2022
    10
    One of the best games that I've played!
    As a kid back then, it always amazes me how I played it multiple times trying to understand complex stories and discover new things in every run.
    This hidden gem really need new sequel!
  74. TheDaveRequiem
    Jun 11, 2022
    10
    One of the best games i have ever played. It's crazy to me how despite the limited hardware, this game is able to portray such an amazing world and story, while causing you to feel so much. Wonderful
  75. thomas41on1
    Oct 18, 2022
    10
    Best RPG ever! Have everthing you need. Only criticism, the difficulty level could be a little higher. Waiting for the HD Remaster
  76. sturunol
    Oct 22, 2022
    7
    It's alright, though the villain's kinda an overrated cartoon edgelord. It is interesting though, there was this clown man named Kamek85 on gamefaqs forums for Diablo 3 using that game as an example for saying something stupid like "Yeah, I think video games have a good 50 years to go before they start to become riveting stories. It's funny how far visual novels have come in the pastIt's alright, though the villain's kinda an overrated cartoon edgelord. It is interesting though, there was this clown man named Kamek85 on gamefaqs forums for Diablo 3 using that game as an example for saying something stupid like "Yeah, I think video games have a good 50 years to go before they start to become riveting stories. It's funny how far visual novels have come in the past twenty years but story seems to be stuck in the 16 bit era." Of course, all of this he said is objectively incorrect garbage, games like Planescape Torment, Baldur's gate 2, Amnesia, Soma, Jade Empire, To The Moon, Finding Paradise, Mgs3 Snake Eater, Wandering, Chicory a Colorful Tale, Disco Elysium, Opus Echo of Starting, Rakuen, Edith Fitch, Night in The Woods, Kentucky Route Zero, Norco, Papers Please, Obra Dinn, Bastion, Transistor, Pyre, Hades, Citizen Sleeper, Beacon Pines, Sephonie, Epiphany City, Stanley Parable, System Shock 2, Thief the dark project, Thief 2, Firework, Far Away, The Rewinder, 1428 Shadows over Silesia, The Plague Doctor of Wippra, Manafinder, Blood Nova, Roadwarden, Lacuna, The Case of the Golden idol, Deadeye Deepfake Simulacrum, The Last Hero of Nostalgia, Persona 4, Persona 5, Smile For Me, Agent A a Puzzle In Disguise, Shadow tactics, Cruelty Squad, Legend of Hand, Football game, The excavation of Job's Barrow, the Monkey Island games, The Witcher games, The first seasons of The Walking Dead and The Wolf Among Us, and countless other story driven games that released the past few years or decade or longer that all prove that video games already do often have better than riveting stories. Video games will always be video games, there will always be gameplay, but there are people who triumph at both gameplay and story. Suikoden 2 itself has plenty of strength in it's own plot, but it was never the best game ever, and that's fine.… Expand
  77. IkeTheInkisitor
    Nov 29, 2022
    10
    This is the best RPG that I've played, it has everything, a great music, a superb story, and awesome graphics.
    It has everything that you could want in a RPG game.
  78. Blacksunsett
    Dec 7, 2022
    10
    This game is a masterpiece. It has a story rivaling the great RPGs such as Final Fantasy and Xeno Blade, if not better. The gameplay is simple but never gets old with new monsters every area. Mini games are better than every Mario Party ever. The cooking one is my favorite as it adds to the story. The game has a lot of characters and that's usually a bad thing as you are alienating someThis game is a masterpiece. It has a story rivaling the great RPGs such as Final Fantasy and Xeno Blade, if not better. The gameplay is simple but never gets old with new monsters every area. Mini games are better than every Mario Party ever. The cooking one is my favorite as it adds to the story. The game has a lot of characters and that's usually a bad thing as you are alienating some characters. Not here. The characters not being used still play into the story and gain EXP through other means. This may be the best game ever made. There are almost no flaws, and anyone could play it and have a good time. The game is so expensive nowadays ranging from 150-2000 dollars depending on the condition it's in.… Expand
  79. Phamster
    May 30, 2023
    0
    This game is hands down the BEST JRPG ever, I like this even more then FF7 and the score of this should top high.
  80. Lazio
    Jul 26, 2023
    10
    Best story and theme in a RPG period, very underrated and very undersold........

Awards & Rankings

17
#17 Best PS1 Game of 1999
4
#4 Most Discussed PS1 Game of 1999
5
#5 Most Shared PS1 Game of 1999

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
82

Generally favorable reviews - based on 8 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 7 out of 8
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 8
  3. Negative: 0 out of 8
  1. netjak
    97
    I would place this one up there with "Xenogears" and "Grandia" as the three must buy RPGs for the system.
  2. IGN
    90
    A true sequel in nearly every aspect, Suikoden II manages to achieve the rare feat of actually picking up where the former game left off, taking gamers for a familiar ride that proves to be deeper and much more detailed than the original.
    Read full review
  3. GameCritics
    90
    Recreates some of the humor and visceral energy of the Chinese novel that loosely inspired it. But the characters and dramatic movement in this story of war are given enough time, thought, and care to come into a life all their own.
    Read full review
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