Suikoden Tierkreis Announced

[EXStrike]

Scans from Wii at Everyday (http://wiieveryday.blogspot.com/2008/08/famitsu-20080822.html)

http://img170.imagevenue.com/loc1071/th_21047_st1_122_1071lo.jpg (http://img170.imagevenue.com/img.php?image=21047_st1_122_1071lo.jpg)http://img126.imagevenue.com/loc631/th_21048_st2_122_631lo.jpg (http://img126.imagevenue.com/img.php?image=21048_st2_122_631lo.jpg)http://img187.imagevenue.com/loc463/th_21054_st3_122_463lo.jpg (http://img187.imagevenue.com/img.php?image=21054_st3_122_463lo.jpg)http://img146.imagevenue.com/loc1086/th_21061_st4_122_1086lo.jpg (http://img146.imagevenue.com/img.php?image=21061_st4_122_1086lo.jpg)

http://www.duefiumi.com/news/news/more-tierkreis.html

Characters

The main character has no name, but apparently will be voiced by Takashi Hiroshi. It is unknown if this will just be in 'grunts' a la Lazlo and Freyjadour in Suikoden IV and V or like Kyril in Suikoden Tactics.


The character Jail (ジェイル) will be voiced by Ryotaro Okiayu. The female character Marika (マリカ) will be voiced by Sakamoto Maya. Ryu (リウ) will be voiced by Tetsuya Kakihara and finally, Dirk (ディルク) will be voiced by Konishi Katsuyuki who is also voicing Viktor in the Suikoden radio drama detailed on this site.

A porpoise race (I mean a species, not an athletic competition) has been confirmed for the game. All together now; grrrroan!

Actual character information; The hero is a youth from an idyllic village, Sidro. Jail is a quite, but sometimes brash young man who cares about the hero and others within the town guard. The character Dirk is the leader of the Sidro town guard, he teaches the others to fight and is very strong, etc. Marika is a friend of the hero from childhood and daughter of the village chief as well as a member of the town guard, while Ryu is a vagabound who arrived in the village some time ago. He doesn't like to fight very often.

Other characters shown include Yula (ユラ), a brown haired girl who appears in battle screenshots and Misrach (ミズラック), a tanned man with a small beard in the same battle shots.

Gameplay

The gameplay takes advantage of the Nintendo DS's touch screen. The top screen shows character status information. HP, MP, status effects and the like. Meanwhile, you can use the DS stylus to enter commands in battle on the touch screen.

Other observations include: The battle system is four person battle system, like Suikoden IV. As such, it is a traditional RPG, not a strategy RPG like Suikoden Tactics. Unite/Combo attacks are confirmed to be in.

Looking at the status screen it appears traditional Suikoden MP is OUT, to be replaced with standard MP numbers comparable to HP. Like in Final Fantasy VII, for example (and 90% of every RPG ever).

Setting

The game is set in the Kingdom of Salsaville. However, the hero's home village appears to be called Sidro Village (シトロ村). Other locations include; the town of Saad, Freseria Forest, the Marcina Plains, Septaflos (the home of the porpoise-based race) and El Kalaal, the palace of a nation (not Salsaville) ruled by Danash VIII.

Plot

Supposedly the game OPENS with the defeat of the 108 Stars of Destiny at the hands of the game's villain with only four survivors (not including the hero). The quest involves reassembling the 108 Stars of Destiny.

[ChibiJosh]

So happy.

Supposedly the game OPENS with the defeat of the 108 Stars of Destiny at the hands of the game's villain with only four survivors (not including the hero). The quest involves reassembling the 108 Stars of Destiny.

I like this idea.

I think I may sell all of my systems, and just keep the DS at this point.

[blueweltall]

Only four? Should be six for a true Suikoden game.

[whitereflection]

How are 108 people defeated by one person? Stars of Destiny my ass.

[keithp]

How are 108 people defeated by one person? Stars of Destiny my ass.

Don't you mean 104? If four survive.

[rapsodist]

Don't you mean 104? If four survive.

Just 'cause four survived doesn't mean they weren't defeated.

[Rodimus]

Never heard of The Kingdom of Salsaville in any of the previous Suikoden games. I'm also curious to hear when the story takes place in the Suikoden time line..... and that's assuming it is in the same time line.

[LeafPanda]

Wow, This makes me want to go try the Suikoden series. Its only a great thing until Gust brings their RPGs to the DS unless they already have.

[laaj]

No outcry about this like Mass Effect DS?

JRPG coming to DS = good
non-JRPG on DS = suck

This should be stickied as forum rule ;)

[LeafPanda]

No outcry about this like Mass Effect DS?

JRPG coming to DS = good
non-JRPG on DS = suck

This should be stickied as forum rule ;)
A good example would be Assassin's Creed and Ninja Gaiden DS. The japanese one was better =P even though this example isn't RPG.

[Rodimus]

No outcry about this like Mass Effect DS?

JRPG coming to DS = good
non-JRPG on DS = suck

This should be stickied as forum rule ;)

What makes this acceptable is that this isn't Suikoden VI. Plus I've been waiting word from anything Suikoden for a while now. Any new game in the series is welcomed. With that said I would prefer a full fledged sequel on a console. At least it's not another strategy game.

[ChibiJosh]

No outcry about this like Mass Effect DS?

JRPG coming to DS = good
non-JRPG on DS = suck

This should be stickied as forum rule ;)

I don't know if I follow the logic here. Since there was one game coming to the DS that people "outcried" over then therefore every other game in the same genre deserves an equal outcry otherwise it must be due to the game's region of origin? :)

Personally, this is now my most wanted game on the DS. I'm more excited for this than I am for Chrono Trigger or Valkyrie Profile, and every other JRPG that's coming out in the near future.

What makes this acceptable is that this isn't Suikoden VI. Plus I've been waiting word from anything Suikoden for a while now. Any new game in the series is welcomed. With that said I would prefer a full fledged sequel on a console. At least it's not another strategy game.

It certainly makes me feel better to have something with the Suikoden name announced now. I just hope the US gets it since we never got a portable Suikoden game before.

[Nephlabobo]

Whoopeee....

A shitty DS game in Taco Town.

Suikoden is the *one* game that shouldn't be on a fucking handheld.

[laaj]

Whoopeee....

A shitty DS game in Taco Town.

Suikoden is the *one* game that shouldn't be on a fucking handheld.

There we go

[io]

No outcry about this like Mass Effect DS?

JRPG coming to DS = good
non-JRPG on DS = suck

This should be stickied as forum rule ;)

I don't quote get it. I mean, the graphics on Suikoden V were barely better than DS standard anyway, so the series could make a decent transition to the DS. Mass Effect, on the other hand, is pretty heavily graphics driven and more of a console experience. Plus, you are comparing an RPG to an action game (while I enjoyed Mass Effect I don't consider it much of an RPG). Yeah, I think HD action games don't translate well to the DS but Suikoden could carry over very well.

[suko_32]

I just hope this gets a US release.

[Kapwanil]

I'm nonplussed, if only because I used to be a lore whore for Suikoden [points to the Japanese-filled encyclopedia on his bookshelf]. Once they toss around some familiar names of places, people, or a date on the timeline I'll be happier.

Otherwise, that's about it. I'd complain but, hey, it's just a small "hey, it's coming soon!" announcement. Besides, if I was going to base everything on initial impressions I'd be holding 4 in a higher regard than as a great way to clean off the bottom of my sneakers. ;)

[pete5883]

Wikipedia tells me that Tierkreis is the German word for Zodiac. Isn't that more of a FFT thing?

If they placed this game in Harmonia, it would be an instant buy from me. Otherwise I pretty much give up on this series.

[BlueLobstah]

I noticed that Tierkreis had been trademarked a week or two ago, but I didn't expect anything to be announced so I'm very happy to at least see something.

Thoughts and concerns:

I like the environment so far, the 2D backgrounds is a good choice for Suikoden, although I do wish they had gone with 2D sprites for the characters as well.

The (character) art style... feels different for some reason, and I can't quite place why it doesn't feel like Suikoden. It just seems out of place for some odd reason.

Why four characters? Give us 80~ playable characters and only four battle slots to use? I'm all for them tweaking the way battles are performed and what not, but I really believe that four slots (see Suikoden IV) is a bad decision.

Personally, this is now my most wanted game on the DS.


Agreed. Even given my concerns, Suikoden is by far one of my favorite series and I'm glad to see something finally out there.

Some of these changes could be because this might quite possibly be a side-game and VI is further on down the road on a console. Either way, I'm just happy to see that Suikoden hasn't died out yet, I was getting a little concerned there for a while.

[Rodimus]

Once they toss around some familiar names of places, people, or a date on the timeline I'll be happier.

Same here. I'm waiting for the connection. I just hope they don't place it to far in the past like they did with IV. I'd like to see it around the more recent events so we can see some familiar faces. I hope Edge, Pesamerga, Yuber, or Clive make an apperance.

[ChibiJosh]

I'm nonplussed

I think you need to see this: http://www.google.com/search?q=define%3Anonplussed&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a

[Vinny]

This doesn't really look.. interesting. But I'll wait and see.... could be good.

[BlueLobstah]

Famitsu has released screenshots from their recent issue:
http://www.famitsu.com/game/coming/1217548_1407.html

Comparison of art between V & Tierkreis:

http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/suikoden/images/thumb/f/ff/Freyjadour0.jpg/300px-Freyjadour0.jpghttp://files.simgaming.net/sthero.jpg

After looking over the images Famitsu released, I am really not a fan of the style they have chosen for the character art. It's much too simple, and doesn't really seem like "Suikoden" at all. I imagine what happened is since there are what appears to be many cut scenes is use the same art/artist for the in-game character portraits but I can't say I'm really a fan yet.

The backgrounds look absolutely gorgeous, yet they went with 3D modeled characters. I would have much rather they used sprites again, but I'll let the jury stay out until I see how everything looks in motion.

I'll still buy the game regardless, but I'm really hoping this is a "Gaiden" story, and that a fully realized Suikoden VI is in the works.

[Monsta Mack]

What a awesome series and one of the few games (Suikoden 2) that I would gladly pay $150 for if need be.

Anyways, I am really shocked by the DS announcement. I was hoping Sony would finally make me start saving for a PS3 by having the next Suikoden stay on a Sony system and be able to whine to my wife till she let me buy a PS3 at It's $400 price point. I guess that's not the case, but the good news is I already have a DS and I don't see this game being more then $40.

I'll agree with the guy above me. The character art looks lame but the backgrounds look gorgeous for a DS game.

Lets post a pre-order link once available.

[defiance_17]

This actually looks promising. I'll probably get excited for this when it gets announced for the U.S.
Suikoden IV just kind of turned me off the series. Despite all the positive things I've heard about V, I haven't taken the time to give it a shot.

[Rodimus]

This anime-ish art direction reminds me of Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow & Persona 3. Is this becoming an industry trend? I'm not anti-anime but I prefer franchises to have unique & disticnt looks.

[Agrippan]

Really hoping this is just an interstitial release; in that regard, it's a good sign that this installment isn't numbered.

[BlueLobstah]

IGN Preview:


http://ds.ign.com/articles/910/910389p1.html

September 16, 2008 - Suikoden: Tierkreis is one of those games that simply comes out of nowhere. Konami calls us up, says they're bring a few other titles along with Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia, and we write it off as just another "kill two birds with one stone" game demo. Then the team shows up with Suikoden, a franchise that has been around for 12 years, was an explosive RPG on the original PlayStation, and is now making its handheld debut, and blows us away. Suikoden: Tierkreis is the real deal.

The Suikoden franchise has always been known for its impressive visuals, gigantic roster of playable characters, and slick, speedy battle system. Tierkreis has all of that. Even with just a few minutes of hands-on time with the game we were shocked to see just how visually stunning the game is, how gigantic the world looks, and how much attention to detail has been thrown into what is sure to be one of DS's biggest sleeper hits of the year.

(emphasis mine)

Images

http://dsmedia.ign.com/ds/image/article/910/910386/suikoden-tierkreis-20080915084511677_640w.jpg

http://dsmedia.ign.com/ds/image/article/910/910386/suikoden-tierkreis-20080915084513365_640w.jpg

http://dsmedia.ign.com/ds/image/article/910/910386/suikoden-tierkreis-20080915084514630_640w.jpg

http://dsmedia.ign.com/ds/image/article/910/910386/suikoden-tierkreis-20080915084516099_640w.jpg

Also direct feed videos. (http://media.ds.ign.com/media/142/14275824/vids_1.html)



Ok, this looks to be shaping up quite nicely. I'm still not sure what to think of the changes that were implemented thus far, but I am glad to see another Suikoden in any case and hope this will help further continue the series.

[ChibiJosh]

:drool:
So this is coming out next month, right? :bomb:

[BlueLobstah]

No idea.

Rumors are Feb. 2009. Otherwise, this recent information just announced a US release. That's all.

[j.elles]

i'm listening to their podcast right now where Bozon is talking about it. Yeah Iga brought it over and it's definetly coming over here.

Sounds great. I've never gotten a chance to play a Suikoden game because i was always neck deep in other games but I will definetly get this one.

I'm looking forward to a lot of the stuff Square is doing, especially Dragon Quest 5, Star Ocean remake for PSP and well most of it but this is new and never played before from the ground up so that's always great news.

[j.elles]

Here's the rest of the screens.


http://dsmedia.ign.com/ds/image/article/910/910386/suikoden-tierkreis-20080915084517396_640w.jpg

http://dsmedia.ign.com/ds/image/article/910/910386/suikoden-tierkreis-20080915084518662_640w.jpg

http://dsmedia.ign.com/ds/image/article/910/910386/suikoden-tierkreis-20080915084519834_640w.jpg

http://dsmedia.ign.com/ds/image/article/910/910386/suikoden-tierkreis-20080915084521537_640w.jpg

http://dsmedia.ign.com/ds/image/article/910/910386/suikoden-tierkreis-20080915084522615_640w.jpg

http://dsmedia.ign.com/ds/image/article/910/910386/suikoden-tierkreis-20080915084524755_640w.jpg

[Whambamm]

Awesome. I'm glad to see that everything seems to be going smoothly. After that IGN preview, I'll probably pick it up day 1 now. I needs me my Suiko fix.

[laaj]

Do we know yet where this game fits on the timeline?

[Rodimus]

^ Nope, not yet. Here's hoping it's around the Suikoden 1/2 timeframe and not 150 years in the past. I want more returning characters besides Viki & Leknaat

[Dr Mario Kart]

Those look like...static, pre-rendered backgrounds to me.

I love it.

[DQT]

Those look like...static, pre-rendered backgrounds to me.

I love it.

I concur.

[pete5883]

Where's our Japanese-speaking CAGs?

http://img164.imagevenue.com/img.php?image=38783_t1_122_1138lo.jpg

I'm wondering what it says about Sota here. He/she/it looks like something out of Baten Kaitos II.

[BlueLobstah]

There was a shot of the world map in one of the IGN videos, but I did not recognize the area at all. I think there is a good possibility this could be south of Falena, or even in the Nameless lands.

Here's some additional scans as well:
Scan 1 (http://i36.tinypic.com/2j5xtt2.jpg)
Scan 2 (http://i33.tinypic.com/2610lth.jpg)
Scan 3 (http://i37.tinypic.com/zvo9j6.jpg)
Scan 4 (http://i35.tinypic.com/289zj0h.jpg)

Taking a look at the 4th scan, it looks like Kobolds (finally!) return. No recognizable characters yet, but I imagine we'll see Viki/Jeane/Leknaat at some point.

After re-watching some of the videos, I noticed there were key staple tunes in there (character selection, battle end) and that there are some odd translation differences. Runes = Mark of the Stars? Overall, the game gives me a Suikoden III kind of vibe, which isn't a bad thing.

[j.elles]

Stuff from over at Gonintendo I didn't see over here.

50% complete
- Characters are 3d
- Backgrounds 2d
- traditional RPG
- tap the touch screen for battle
- “The Chosen 108 heroes have been destroyed?!”
- 4 party members
- support characters return
- New race (dolphins)
- story begins with 108 heroes fighting 1 villain, and all but 4 die. The main character is not 1 of the 4, but he aims to put the 108 back together again.

- voice work
- gameplay close to previous Suikoden games
- new nation (but timeline unsure)
- 3d graphics (as displayed in Famitsu scans)
- Main hero is without a name
- town names, locations within or around the Kingdom of Salsaville
Sidro Village
Saad
Freseria Forest
Marcina Plains
Septaflos
El Kalaal







Here some stuff from the press release that went out yesterday

http://gonintendo.com/?p=56052
Featuring the franchise’s established gameplay while maximizing the technological capabilities of the DS to provide all-new online elements, this epic RPG consists of many cinematic experiences that will drive the grand storyline of the 108 Stars of Destiny as they battle to thwart the powerful One King.

Using the Nintendo Wi-Fi connection, Suikoden: Tierkreis offers a rich online community experience that allows players to send their characters on quests that other members of the community will complete for them, eventually returning the player to their party with new abilities and treasures.

For the first time ever, players will begin with the last three members of the Stars of Destiny and are tasked with resurrecting the other 104 in order to restore order in the universe and defeat the almighty One King.



So sound interesting with the online. You can give your character to another player? Sounds wierd. I will need to see a video of this or something.


http://www.andriasang.com/e/articles/2008/08/23/suikoden_set_for_ds/
Main Character
The nameless main character is from the border village of Shitro, where he serves as a member of a village security force. He has a bright outlook, but tends to take action prior to thinking. He's voiced by Yuki Kaji.

Jael
A member of the same security force in Shitro Village. He doesn't talk much, treats his friends with importance, and often follows the main character's lead. He's voiced by Ryotaro Okiau.

Marica
Daughter of the head of Shitro Village, she's also a childhood friend of Jael and the main character. She went against her parent's will and joined the village security force, and seems to be taking her job seriously. Marica is voiced by Maya Sakamoto.

Riu
A young boy who lives in Shitro Village and appears to have come from nowhere. He's also a member of the security force, despite claiming to be unaccustomed to violence. The reason appears to be that he's become good friends with Jael and the main character. Riu is voiced by Tetsuya Kaikhara.

Dirk
Another member of the Shitro Village security force, Dirk has a leader role with the group and looks after younger members. Young kids long to be like him and refer to him as "big brother." He guides Jael and the main character in battle. Dirk is voiced by Katsuyuki Konishi.

The main character's adventure begins as he heads out to take out monsters, presumably as part of his security force duties. While out on his journeys in the village surroundings, he comes upon a ruins area from which emerges a mysterious light. This is where the main character's fate changes, although we're presumably going to have to wait until the final game arrives for specifics.



Theres some more info from another site I didnt see over here.

[Dead of Knight]

The game looks rather underwhelming, including the character art, but I loved Suikoden 5 and, thus, I still have a lot of faith that this game will be good.

[j.elles]

Some of the character art looks good some doesn't. That's my opinion from looking at all the scans and screens.

Looks very Manga, and anime inspired for the art direction.

Story seems not toned down at all from the screens so that's promising. Still I wish they had gone in a Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia or Lost Oddesy route with the Art design instead of this I agree.

I will defenetly be getting this though. Looks like they're really putting some effort into this.

[Z_meista]

Yes, it's about time they release a Suikoden game.

[rothgar24]

As someone who hasn't played this series, all I see is that the DS ia getting another solid and possibly great rpg ... sounds like a win.

[j.elles]

Boxart just released. Japans obviously. But still interesting to see.
We can only hope ours is the same.
http://gonintendo.com/wp-content/photos/gensou01.jpg

[BlueLobstah]

I like it. Can't be anywhere near as bad as Suikoden I. Of course, there's still always that chance for the US...

[Rodimus]

Ha, Suikoden 1's box art was horrendious. I guess the anime look wasn't totally accepted yet.

Is the timeframe of Tierkreis still uncertian?

[BlueLobstah]

Neither timeframe or location is known. I'm hoping the upcoming TGS will shed some light. I'm thinking that the placement is further south of Falena, although timing could be anyone's guess.

Should find out soon enough though, Japanese release date is December 18th (http://www.konami.jp/gs/game/genso/tierkreis/index.html). I imagine we'll see the game pretty soon in early 2009 considering there were already English screens a few weeks after the game was announced.

Of course, Japan gets some awesome bonuses as well.


OST
Artbook
Bookmarks of 5 main characters
Drama CD

I'm hoping we see some of this in the US, since we did see a short soundtrack with Suikoden Tactics, and an artbook with Suikoden V.

[j.elles]

http://gonintendo.com/wp-content/photos/bonse.jpg Take a good look at what we won't be getting and cry a little on the inside.

[BlueLobstah]

Take a good look at what we won't be getting and cry a little on the inside.

I'm hoping we see some of this in the US, since we did see a short soundtrack with Suikoden Tactics, and an artbook with Suikoden V.


To be fair, we did receive bonuses w/pre-orders on the last two games released. It certainly won't be as nice as Japan's, but there's a pretty good chance we'll see one of those items.

[Nephlabobo]

http://www.konami.jp/gs/game/genso/tierkreis/#/download/34/

Generic Naruto style art? Check
Generic J-Pop theme song? Check
Generic chibi looking characters? Check
Voice actors using up memory on the cartridge that should be devoted to plot? Check

This game is going to be an abomination.

God dammit I hate Konami this gen.

They seem determined to ruin every franchise they have.

[j.elles]

A lot of games change for US release. Wait for it to be released before condeming it. The constant voice acting might be annoying though. Especially since chances are they won't try hard to find good voice actors. Still I hope it's good and will reserve judgement. In my opinion it can't be any worse then the last entry in the series. Can only go up from there.

[Nephlabobo]

A lot of games change for US release. Wait for it to be released before condeming it. The constant voice acting might be annoying though. Especially since chances are they won't try hard to find good voice actors. Still I hope it's good and will reserve judgement. In my opinion it can't be any worse then the last entry in the series. Can only go up from there.

There was nothing wrong with Suikden V, apart from a slow start to the story. Everything else was fine. This looks (and sounds with the J-pop song) like generic anime crap.

[j.elles]

Well then we are of different opinions then on that. The first two are my benchmark.

This being portable makes it interesting enough for me personally. I would have prefered an art style more like Avalon Code for the DS or something though to be sure. I like anime and stuff enough though that i'm willing to try it.

[j.elles]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9UpoM0MUSbc
Trailer up.

Really like the music. The more I see the monster designs the more I like them. Some of the Japanese voice acting is actually pretty good.

Art style actually seems pretty good from the cut scenes here. The main characters still look funny to me but everyone else looks pretty good. Plus they weren't kidding this game's world looks just as big as the console games.

[Nephlabobo]

It's got a shitty, generic J-Pop song at the end and crappy generic art.

It's a slap in the face to any fan of the series.

[ChibiJosh]

It's got a shitty, generic J-Pop song at the end and crappy generic art.

It's a slap in the face to any fan of the series.

I think it's fine.

[j.elles]

It's got a shitty, generic J-Pop song at the end and crappy generic art.

It's a slap in the face to any fan of the series.

Reminds me a little of Princess Mononoke from some of the Anime cutscenes. After watching the trailer I think it has a very solid overall art direction that works pretty well.

Anyway I don't mind the in game sprites since the environments around them look pretty good what with the waterfalls, lighting and such.

I do think they should have gone with an in game art style more like Avalon Code or something though that makes them look more like Adults though.

And the music before the J-pop song was very nice. If you don't like it i'm sure that's probably the only one.

[DQT]

It's got a shitty, generic J-Pop song at the end and crappy generic art.

It's a slap in the face to any fan of the series.

Yeah the game is moving in a more generic Atlus RPG direction, but if that bothers you, at least it's not a numbered installment in the series.

I like what I've seen so far, but then again, I've never had the chance to play any of the games in the series.

[Nephlabobo]

I like what I've seen so far, but then again, I've never had the chance to play any of the games in the series.

That's obviously why you like what you've seen. If you'd played the old ones, you'd realise what crap this is.

[j.elles]

That's obviously why you like what you've seen. If you'd played the old ones, you'd realise what crap this is.


I think this game is trying to appeal to a more mass market then previous Suikoden games but that isn't a bad thing. I like some J-Pop though and anime as well as Suikoden so that's why I probably don't seem to have as much of a problem with this as you do.

[Nephlabobo]

I think this game is trying to appeal to a more mass market then previous Suikoden games but that isn't a bad thing.

Yes, it is.

[ChibiJosh]

That's obviously why you like what you've seen. If you'd played the old ones, you'd realise what crap this is.

I've played every Suikoden game, and I like what I've seen.

[Nephlabobo]

I've played every Suikoden game, and I like what I've seen.

You need to look again then.

[pete5883]

Troll? We get it, you don't like it.

If you don't like J-Pop in your games, then boy are you playing the wrong genre.

[Whambamm]

That's obviously why you like what you've seen. If you'd played the old ones, you'd realise what crap this is.

Seriously, you may be the most vocal on this board, but I bet you're in the minority when it comes to Suikoden fans. I'm reserving judgment until I play the game, but I'm pleased with what they've shown.

[Rodimus]

I think the trailer was great, I'm very pumped. This coming from one of the biggest Suikoden fans on CAG. My only personal complaint is that I've never been a fan of super deformed, and these models look super SUPER deformed.

This isn't a slap in the face to fans. It is a slighty diffrent look but the core of Suikoden is intact. It's a turn-based RPG which you find the 108 stars of destiny. If they add some kind of town/castle then the formula is complete.

[BlueLobstah]

While I have reservations about the game, I don't consider the game a bust. It does have some characteristics of a Suikoden game, and there's still a good chance it could be leading up to the next numbered series game. At the very least, I'm reserving my judgment until I actually get a chance to play the game.

[Nephlabobo]

I
This isn't a slap in the face to fans. It is a slighty diffrent look but the core of Suikoden is intact.

The core of Suikoden isn't aimed at 12 year olds.Which this clearly is.

Seriously, you may be the most vocal on this board, but I bet you're in the minority when it comes to Suikoden fans.

I know I'm not - at least to anyone who can do even a modicum of critical thinking. Just because the Suikoden name is slapped on it doesn't guarantee it's going to be good. S4 proved that. Nevermind the fact that Konami seems determined to botch every series they own.

[Rodimus]

The core of Suikoden isn't aimed at 12 year olds.Which this clearly is.

No it's not. If you had to run around collecting cute animal's in little balls then breed them, then I'd agree.

[Nephlabobo]

No it's not.

The art style says otherwise.

[j.elles]

The art style says otherwise.

I think everyone knows you don't like it. Don't be annoying and try to force your opinion on everyone.

[BlueLobstah]

The art style says otherwise.


You're welcome to your opinion, but I'm afraid I'm going to have to disagree.

While, I'm not a big fan of the more simplistic art style, it's not too far off from some of the aspects of Suikoden III. Additionally, the new art style may be due to budget restraints and continuity; having two separate artists for the cut scenes and in-game portraits just is not good for either. Suikoden is not exactly one of Konami's big budget titles, so I can certainly see reasoning why this could be the case.

We get you don't like it, but at least try to add to the discussion rather than trying to stir up the pot.

[Rodimus]

Persona 3 went in a same exact art direction. I initially thought I wouldn't like it, but I didn't write it off. I can safely say it's no 12 year old game and probably one of the best RPGs on the PS2.

[Nephlabobo]

Persona 3 went in a same exact art direction. I initially thought I wouldn't like it, but I didn't write it off. I can safely say it's no 12 year old game and probably one of the best RPGs on the PS2.

Persona 3 went in a more stylised direction, but it didn't look sloppy and cheap.

[pete5883]

Just because the Suikoden name is slapped on it doesn't guarantee it's going to be good. S4 proved that.
Conversely, just because it has a different art style doesn't guarantee it's going to be bad. Though it probably will be. Castlevania DoS's style was pretty clearly shootin for the kids, but it was a fun game anyway.

[Rodimus]

Persona 3 went in a more stylised direction, but it didn't look sloppy and cheap.

What makes P3 "stylised" and Tierkreis "sloppy & cheap?" You do know this is a DS game? I'm not sure what you expect this game to look like.

I'm not here to tell you this will be an amazing game. I'll be the first one to tell you that the Suikoden series is hit & miss, but I think any true fan of the series wouldn't knock it before they get some "real" info on it.

[Baron O Hell]

Looks pretty darn good to me.

[Nephlabobo]

What makes P3 "stylised" and Tierkreis "sloppy & cheap?" You do know this is a DS game? I'm not sure what you expect this game to look like.

Not like cheap kids WB stuff.

I'm not here to tell you this will be an amazing game. I'll be the first one to tell you that the Suikoden series is hit & miss, but I think any true fan of the series wouldn't knock it before they get some "real" info on it.

I've been playing the games since the first one came out for PS1. I don't need anyone lecturing me on what a "true" fan is. There is real info on it, and that's why I'm pissed off. Because it looks like crap.

[Rodimus]

Not like cheap kids WB stuff.

:-s

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c396/Zangeif123/xiaolin2.jpg

I don't need anyone lecturing me on what a "true" fan is. There is real info on it.

Yep, 1 trailer, 30 screens and scraps of gameplay info. Way to hang in there Suikoden super fan.

[Nephlabobo]

Actually, there's been more than one if you'd bothered to look.

I believe IGN posted video and then took it down. And Gamekyo posted one today, and it certainly wasn't reassuring.

And there's this

http://www.truegameheadz.com/blogheadz/new-footage-of-suikoden-ds-hands-on-play/

Which features fucking *atrocious* voice acting. This game is going to be the worst in the series.

[BlueLobstah]

New Information from the December Issue of Nintendo Power:

http://img139.imageshack.us/img139/2474/ninpowtierkries23ik6.th.jpg (http://img139.imageshack.us/my.php?image=ninpowtierkries23ik6.jpg) http://img135.imageshack.us/img135/6281/ninpowtierkries22ci1.th.jpg (http://img135.imageshack.us/my.php?image=ninpowtierkries22ci1.jpg) http://img183.imageshack.us/img183/2382/ninpowtierkries24uu2.th.jpg (http://img183.imageshack.us/my.php?image=ninpowtierkries24uu2.jpg)



Its design is comparable to previous Suikoden titles.
Battle System controlled by d-pad or stylus.
Co-op attacks still exist.
Short, medium, and long-ranged attacks.
Game progression mission based.
Potch gained from completed missions, not dropped from enemies.
Weapons bought instead of upgraded.
No True Runes
No one-on-one duels
No strategic battles
No re-occurring characters confirmed yet.
Set in parallel world. ???


"This is a new game and it is completely different from previous Suikoden titles, so all the characters are new as well," emphasizes Saruta. "There are not any locations or stages from any previous Suikoden titles. The scene of the game is one of parallel worlds."

Our experience with Suikoden: Tierkreis has been very encouraging. Although the game seemingly came out of nowhere, it is a bona fide entry in the series, and it's worthy of the Suikoden name. The production values are arguably better than some of the franchise's console entries, and the payoff is likely to be one of DS's most compelling RPGs when it hits stores this winter.



I've bolded some of the biggest changes from previous Suikoden titles.

In short, with this new information I find myself very disappointed in the direction the game has taken. The history of Suikoden is rich and interesting, and the continuity of the game is what originally drew me in much more than something like Final Fantasy. Not set in what we know to be Suikoden leaves me saddened.

I still have my hopes that this is a spin-off of the main series and VI really is in the works for some console and this title will help to regenerate some interest in the series.

Suikoden name aside, the game still looks promising and I do still plan on picking it up.

[ChibiJosh]

I still have my hopes that this is a spin-off of the main series and VI really is in the works for some console
I think there should be no doubt about this. At least, the spin-off part, I doubt VI is currently being worked on, but I bet we can expect an announcement sometime next Spring, maybe.

[j.elles]

If this game sells well I wouldnt be surprised if this game does what Dragon Quest did a and the next numbered game comes to the DS.

[Rodimus]

So it's not set in the main Suikoden world?!? I agree with BlueLobstah, That's a huge let down for me. If you threw out the "108 stars" aspect this could be any other RPG and we wouldn't be able to tell the difference.

That alone might make me jump on the Nephlabobo boat and start bashing it. This is lame.

[j.elles]

Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance and Fire Emblem: Radiant Dawn were really good games that felt like Fire Emblem games and they were in a different universe than the previous games up to that point.

I'm willing to give this game the same level of confidence after that.

[suko_32]

All of a sudden I'm kinda disappointed in this game. I can't believe it's not set in the main Suikoden world and that there's no true runes.

[BlueLobstah]

The lack of true runes, "finding" the 108 stars, and being set in a parallel world makes me think that even with the Genso name, this game is not part of the main series... :-k

[suko_32]

Unless it gets horrid reviews across the board, I'm still getting it though.

[Rodimus]

^ Same here. I need a new RPG for my DS anyways.

[BlueLobstah]

Amazon has March 31, 2009 release date @ $34.99. (http://www.amazon.com/Suikoden-Tierkreis-Nintendo-DS/dp/B001H8Y7DA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=videogames&qid=1224184279&sr=8-1)

I'm beginning to wonder if the Genso prefix signifies the presence of the 108 stars of destiny? Did any of the Suikogaiden games contain all 108 stars?

[Rodimus]

Amazon has March 31, 2009 release date @ $34.99. (http://www.amazon.com/Suikoden-Tierkreis-Nintendo-DS/dp/B001H8Y7DA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=videogames&qid=1224184279&sr=8-1)

I'm beginning to wonder if the Genso prefix signifies the presence of the 108 stars of destiny? Did any of the Suikogaiden games contain all 108 stars?

No, since they were text adventure games they never focused on building allies. But it had a ton of characters from S1 & S2.

[Nephlabobo]

Why even put the Suikoden name on it then? What a total cash grab.

WTF is Konami thinking?

[j.elles]

Suikoden games as far as I can tell don't sell that well.

I think they probably looked at the sales of Luminous Arc and figured this has a chance of selling really well on the DS.

It's coming early next year so we'll know soon enough how good it is. The gaming sites seem to be impressed with it overall so i will definetly have to try it.

Hearing it's not connected though is a disapointment.

[Nephlabobo]

It's coming early next year so we'll know soon enough how good it is.


Between the *atrocious* voice acting, being absolutely unrelated to any other Suikoden game, and the lack of *any* Suikoden game mechanics, I'd say we already know how good it is - not at all.

[j.elles]

You obviously won't get it. But I like RPG's on the DS so I am looking forward to it either way.

[Z_meista]

nice...
can't wait to see a trailer.

[ChibiJosh]

nice...
can't wait to see a trailer.

There's already a trailer.

[BlueLobstah]

Some new backgrounds have gone up on Konami's website. (http://www.konami.jp/gs/game/genso/tierkreis/#/download/) When all is said and done, some of the art is starting to look much better, aside from the hands in these backgrounds.

In other news, Andrew Fitch of 1up is going to be talking to the team behind Suikoden Tierkreis, and is welcoming fan submitted questions (http://www.1up.com/do/blogEntry?bId=8918182&publicUserId=5734288) on his blog. This might be a good opportunity to get some needed questions out, like, "Is Suikoden Tierkreis a side-game to the main Suikoden series, and if so, can we expect to see Suikoden VI sometime in the near future?"

[Rodimus]

Famitsu Review is up : 9, 8, 9, 8 - (34/40)

Too bad I don't trust Famitsu.

[BlueLobstah]

First day sales: 40,000. (http://www.suikox.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=187&t=32148)

I've been following the initial reaction after Tierkreis' release in Japan.

On the first day, the game sold 40000 copies, which is pretty good.
Obviously the tally for the whole week would be much higher, and more people should buy ity during the weekend.

There have been relatively few complaints about the game including story and gameplay. Most of us worry about whether Tierkreis has the "Suikoden feel," but I've read some comments that say Tierkreis feels like Suikoden moreso than Suikoden 4 or 5, so the indication at this point seems to be pretty good. The whole "getting thrown into the dirt and then rising back to glory" type of catharsis that's a staple in earlier Suikoden titles seems to exist (based on comments made by Japanese fans).

Skeptics are starting to consider buying the game after refusing to acknowledge Tierkreis as a Suikoden title. The general view seems to be that the story and gameplay is sort of suikoden-like, while the game doesn't seem very suikoden-like initially.


That's somewhat promising. I still remain skeptical, but its certainly on its way to helping to revive the franchise. I don't know what it will take to get Suikoden VI, but I hope this makes some steps toward doing so.

[suko_32]

Suikoden VI would be a day one purchase for me. Good to see this game doing pretty well so far.

[BlueLobstah]

In other news, Suikoden released for PSN (http://blog.us.playstation.com/2008/12/23/playstation-store-update-66/). At only $5.99, that's a steal. If they release Suikoden II on PSN, I will buy a PSP just to own it. Probably would end up spending less than it would take for a mint PSX copy.

[suko_32]

I got the Suikoden on PSN. Having it work on my PSP is a plus.

[Dr Mario Kart]

Those sales are suprising, considering the game came out on the same day as Tales of Hearts (123,600 this week) and Dissidia: Final Fantasy (489,100)

[gunm]

So what's the MSRP for US? Amazon has it for $34.99 right now, which would seem to me to be closer to what I'd expect for a non-SE game (ugh), but list is currently $39.99.

[ChibiJosh]

Well, according to Gamestop, there was a pricedrop from $39.99 to $34.99. So, I'm guess the $40 was just a placeholder?

[gunm]

Well, according to Gamestop, there was a pricedrop from $39.99 to $34.99. So, I'm guess the $40 was just a placeholder?


makes sense to me.

[ChibiJosh]

I just noticed that amazon has a free soundtrack and artbook preorder bonus up. I don't think I've seen this mentioned anywhere else yet.

[BlueLobstah]

GameStop is offering the bonus as well. (http://www.gamestop.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=73021)

Reserve Suikoden: Tierkreis and receive a special limited edition song soundtrack and art book. This CD is loaded with 18 music tracks and renderings of characters and environments from the latest Suikoden title. Offer available for online and in-store customers, while supplies last.

Online Customers: Soundtrack and art book will ship with your order.

In-Store Pickup / Store Customers: Soundtrack and art book will be available at time of game pick-up.


I need to decide if I will pre-order this from Amazon, or take my chances with GameStop...

[bvharris]

FWIW, Gamestop.com currently is offering a "StopWatch Sale" on free 2-day shipping on the pre-order w/ the previously mentioned bonus. The site says it's only good until midnight tonight (the 10th), though I can't speak to the veracity of that.

This would arrive more quickly (probably) than the identically priced Amazon pre-order with FSSS. Not a bad deal for those among us who don't necessarily need it day one and are also unable or unwilling to drag themselves to a B&M Gamestop.

Enter code "ONEKING" at checkout. Again, only good until Midnight (or thereabouts) on 3/10 - allegedly.

Edit: Neglected to mention the difference in tax. You still might end up paying a bit more on GS to get it a bit sooner.

[BlueLobstah]

Not a bad deal, but I went ahead and went with Amazon, since I had a $5 promotional code and was able to save tax. I don't mind that I don't get this day one, and will just play it whenever it comes in.

[Kayden]

Free shipping, no tax and a preorder bonus? F-ing sold.

[ChibiJosh]

I wish this would hurry and come out. I've been stopping myself from starting any other game because I want to dive into this as soon as it arrives.

[Gden]

Anyone have an idea what the style of game this is? Is it RTS, TRPG, or traditional RPG in the style of the other suikodens

[slidecage]

im waiting for amazon to knock like 3 bucks off this

[bvharris]

Anyone have an idea what the style of game this is? Is it RTS, TRPG, or traditional RPG in the style of the other suikodens

It's a traditional RPG, though I believe there are some additional DS bells and whistles (which I'll likely ignore).

[J7.]

Saw it got a 34 in Famitsu. The artbook & soundtrack bonus have my interest peaked, but I'm still unsure if I should buy it. Anyone know anything about it that might make me go ahead with a purchase? Where do you get the $5 promotional code?

[slidecage]

problem with preorder is is it a

SOUNDTRACK + ART BOOK or is the ART included on the cd rom

they have not got them in yet at gamestop so they cant tell. In the picture it looks like a cd rom

[Dead of Knight]

It's on the CD.

[BlueLobstah]

Saw it got a 34 in Famitsu. The artbook & soundtrack bonus have my interest peaked, but I'm still unsure if I should buy it. Anyone know anything about it that might make me go ahead with a purchase? Where do you get the $5 promotional code?


I got a promo code for ordering Chrono Trigger off Amazon.com. I guess they send them out for certain games?

It's hard to say what to expect since a lot of stuff has been changed from previous iterations of the game. Otherwise, its a pretty traditional RPG.

[Vinny]

The promo codes are from preordering games in Nov/Dec of last year. Amazon offered $5-10 promo coupons for future videogame purchases. I got $5 from my Chrono Trigger preorder, $20 for my Wii Music preorder (which I sold for $40s after receiving) and I know there have been a few others.

[slidecage]

It's on the CD.

Thanks i will pass then...


With blue dragon plus got off ebay for 14 shipped.

and picked up Mana Khemia: Student Alliance psp for 15 shipped after using 7 gamefly bucks

And a.code coming saturday via gamefly i think im pretty well set for awhile

[Monsta Mack]

As a huge Suikoden fan I had my doubts. Hell I supported tactics by pre-ordering it despite the rage I had burning inside seeing previews of that game. I'm just a sucker for giving Konami money in hopes the series stays alive and there would be something close to Suikoden 2 (Suikoden 5 came pretty damn close.). So the artwork on the cd and sound track really sealed the deal for me.

[DQT]

I take it you didn't enjoy Suikoden Tactics after getting it?

[BlueLobstah]

I must be one of the few people who actually enjoyed Suikoden Tactics. I'm not saying it was a stellar game, but I enjoyed it as it helped flesh out Suikoden IV's story and explain a little more of what was going on.

[bvharris]

I must be one of the few people who actually enjoyed Suikoden Tactics. I'm not saying it was a stellar game, but I enjoyed it as it helped flesh out Suikoden IV's story and explain a little more of what was going on.

It was neither great by tactical RPG standards nor by Suikoden standards, but given it combined two of my greatest gaming loves, I managed to enjoy it anyways, though of course I wish it had been better.

Konami can pretty much have my money until the end of time with anything which says Suikoden on it, though I agree with the sentiment that 2 may never be topped.

[blueweltall]

So I went to Wal-Mart to buy some floss and I ended up getting a case of Orange soda, Suikoden Tierkreis, and of course my floss.:D

I only played about 30 minutes of the game so far but it was nice to hear the classic Suikoden theme song when you're prompted to enter your name. The main character actually talk now which is pretty weird.

[Monsta Mack]

I take it you didn't enjoy Suikoden Tactics after getting it?

Nope. Played about five hours or so of it and couldn't take it anymore.

Wow, I didn't realize this game was out alright? Earlier in Canada? Elsewhere?

Amazon is saying my copy won't ship till Tuesday, and that's the release date according to them to.

Oh well, still playing RE5 at the moment and gota work on achievements.

[slidecage]

Nope. Played about five hours or so of it and couldn't take it anymore.

Wow, I didn't realize this game was out alright? Earlier in Canada? Elsewhere?

Amazon is saying my copy won't ship till Tuesday, and that's the release date according to them to.

Oh well, still playing RE5 at the moment and gota work on achievements.

dont be shocked to see that ship date pushed backto March 19 or later amazon always does it.

I hope to have this or

Valkyrie Profile: Covenant of the Plume

or both of them IN HAND by saturday if gamefly ships them to me....

I got a game im returning tonight so hopefully that gets Fast return and it pops out on one these two Weds and i would upgrade to 3 at a time to get the other one sent..

unless

i fall in love with Avalon Code what should come today via gamefly

[J7.]

IGN REVIEW 8.8
http://ds.ign.com/articles/963/963533p1.html

[slidecage]

hope to get it by saturday

[Dead of Knight]

This game has some of the worst. voice acting. evar. I mute the game whenever there's a cutscene with voices (no voices in battle). Otherwise it's not bad.

[bvharris]

This game has some of the worst. voice acting. evar. I mute the game whenever there's a cutscene with voices (no voices in battle). Otherwise it's not bad.

Mine just got here today, so I haven't heard the voice acting yet, though I find it hard to believe ANY voice acting could be worse than Final Fantasy IV DS. I'll just have to see for myself.

PS, was anyone else kind of peeved to find that the "artbook" with the pre-order is in fact a "digital artbook". That's kind of fucking bull if you ask me, and that was definitely NOT mentioned by Amazon at least. Here I was expecting a nice pretty artbook I could put on my shelf with the others - If I wanted some pictures for my computer I would just type "Suikoden Tierkreis" into google.

[suko_32]

Mine just got here today, so I haven't heard the voice acting yet, though I find it hard to believe ANY voice acting could be worse than Final Fantasy IV DS. I'll just have to see for myself.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BAtC1SzWSXg

[ChibiJosh]

This game has some pretty hilarious dialogue.

-Maybe you should touch this as well
-May I?
-Yes... I want you to touch it.


PS, was anyone else kind of peeved to find that the "artbook" with the pre-order is in fact a "digital artbook". That's kind of fucking bull if you ask me, and that was definitely NOT mentioned by Amazon at least. Here I was expecting a nice pretty artbook I could put on my shelf with the others - If I wanted some pictures for my computer I would just type "Suikoden Tierkreis" into google.

Complaining about something free is pretty bad. Plus Amazon showed that the artbook was on the CD with the soundtrack.

[BlueLobstah]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BAtC1SzWSXg


:-s

It's like they didn't even try. Of course, this little blurb might be why.

Shortly after release, a number of websites parsed the credits of the game to realize that a fair number of the "actors" in the game were just friends and family of the CEO.


I'm still waiting on my copy, as I got the free shipping. As a Suikoden fan, my expectations are kind of meh, but as an RPG fan, I'm looking forward to a good solid title. I just hope this game sales well and leads to an eventual release of Suikoden VI.

[keithp]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BAtC1SzWSXg

OMG, that's seriously awful! How the hell does that pass the director or whoever is in charge of the voice recording??

[bvharris]

Complaining about something free is pretty bad. Plus Amazon showed that the artbook was on the CD with the soundtrack.

They didn't show it that I saw. If they did, it wasn't readily apparent. And yes, if the reason I pre-ordered something rather than waiting was to get the pre-order bonus, than I have a right to complain when it's not as advertised. The term "artBOOK" to me, suggests some sort of book.

Additionally, they felt the need to stick the CD sleeve onto the DS box with sticky goop, even though the whole package was already shrinkwrapped, leaving that stuff stuck to the box with little hope of removing all of it without tearing the plastic on the box. For someone who's a fan of the series and a collecter, these things are frustrating.

It's not going to affect my enjoyment of the game, but I'll make sure I get your permission before I express my displeasure with something next time.

[slidecage]

They didn't show it that I saw. If they did, it wasn't readily apparent. And yes, if the reason I pre-ordered something rather than waiting was to get the pre-order bonus, than I have a right to complain when it's not as advertised. The term "artBOOK" to me, suggests some sort of book.

Additionally, they felt the need to stick the CD sleeve onto the DS box with sticky goop, even though the whole package was already shrinkwrapped, leaving that stuff stuck to the box with little hope of removing all of it without tearing the plastic on the box. For someone who's a fan of the series and a collecter, these things are frustrating.

It's not going to affect my enjoyment of the game, but I'll make sure I get your permission before I express my displeasure with something next time.

I asked the question in this topic and someone said the ART was on the CD and not a real art book

that is why i did not buy it... Rented it off gamefly and is it just me or is this game VERY EASY

[Monsta Mack]

Yeah the artbook on a cd is pretty lame but It's still a pre-order bonus. I don't think this game will see a price drop anyways, as most Suikodens never really do outside of Suikoden Tactics.

[blackjaw]

Gah, I bought this over the weekend and haven't had a chance to open it up yet. I'm still watching reviews and just can't make up my mind to play it or return it and grab GTA. I love Suikoden, but this is kind of the anti-Suikoden from what I read. Granted everyone says that while it isn't really a "Suikoden" game, it is a good RPG.

[Dead of Knight]

Gah, I bought this over the weekend and haven't had a chance to open it up yet. I'm still watching reviews and just can't make up my mind to play it or return it and grab GTA. I love Suikoden, but this is kind of the anti-Suikoden from what I read. Granted everyone says that while it isn't really a "Suikoden" game, it is a good RPG.

Return it. I'm at the endgame and it's nothing more than mediocre. I am a huge Suikoden fan and I even enjoyed IV a lot more than this. The beginning 20 hours are ludicrously bad, but it does get a lot better as it goes on. Unfortunately, that doesn't say much, as there are tons of $$$$ling flaws that simply add up so much that the game just isn't fun. This includes:

-Ridiculous encounter rate
-Your character moves very slow even if you get the accessory that increases walking speed
-The dungeons are mazes with no maps, combined with the above two it's a nightmare
-You often have to backtrack and out of said dungeons to recruit stars and there is no escape talisman or any other way to teleport out of the dungeon, as well as no way to avoid encounters; combined with the above three it's a mess
-The game is absurdly easy. Even boss fights are over within 3 rounds even with minimal effort; combined with the high encounter rate and the classic Suikoden experience point system, you basically are required to constantly fight easy enemies that give very little experience. Sure, you can run away, but it still takes several seconds to load the battles and then run away
-The new equipment and magic systems are not as good as the original; anyone can equip most things depending on whether they're a caster or brawler (unlike everyone having a unique weapon in every other Suikoden game) and the magic/skills are basically the same depending on whether you have a brawler/caster (basically, all characters of the same type can equip almost all of the same magic and equipment, making there be absolutely no difference between any of the stars except appearance and possible unite attacks). There are no runes, basically any caster or brawler has basically the same skill set.
-Horrid voice acting as mentioned
-Cliched characters and story, but honestly they are one of the high points of the game
-Music is probably the best part of the game, unfortunately you can't turn off the horrid voice acting so it's either deal with it or mute it

What a disappointment. I wouldn't be surprised if this was at least partially developed by a third-party like Tose on a limited budget. It's playable and it's not broken, there's no bugs, but it's just not fun.

[slidecage]

Return it. I'm at the endgame and it's nothing more than mediocre. I am a huge Suikoden fan and I even enjoyed IV a lot more than this. The beginning 20 hours are ludicrously bad, but it does get a lot better as it goes on. Unfortunately, that doesn't say much, as there are tons of $$$$ling flaws that simply add up so much that the game just isn't fun. This includes:

-Ridiculous encounter rate
-Your character moves very slow even if you get the accessory that increases walking speed
-The dungeons are mazes with no maps, combined with the above two it's a nightmare
-You often have to backtrack and out of said dungeons to recruit stars and there is no escape talisman or any other way to teleport out of the dungeon, as well as no way to avoid encounters; combined with the above three it's a mess
-The game is absurdly easy. Even boss fights are over within 3 rounds even with minimal effort; combined with the high encounter rate and the classic Suikoden experience point system, you basically are required to constantly fight easy enemies that give very little experience. Sure, you can run away, but it still takes several seconds to load the battles and then run away
-The new equipment and magic systems are not as good as the original; anyone can equip most things depending on whether they're a caster or brawler (unlike everyone having a unique weapon in every other Suikoden game) and the magic/skills are basically the same depending on whether you have a brawler/caster (basically, all characters of the same type can equip almost all of the same magic and equipment, making there be absolutely no difference between any of the stars except appearance and possible unite attacks). There are no runes, basically any caster or brawler has basically the same skill set.
-Horrid voice acting as mentioned
-Cliched characters and story, but honestly they are one of the high points of the game
-Music is probably the best part of the game, unfortunately you can't turn off the horrid voice acting so it's either deal with it or mute it

What a disappointment. I wouldn't be surprised if this was at least partially developed by a third-party like Tose on a limited budget. It's playable and it's not broken, there's no bugs, but it's just not fun.

how long did it take you to beat it... yea its just sad How easy this game is

im out 8 hours into the game Trying to get that Wolf creature back to his own world


I thought VP was too hard and now this is TOO EASY

yea i saw that with the weapons.. anyone can equip anything what is very lame

[Dead of Knight]

It's a bit over 40 hours if you want to get all 108 stars, which I just did. Heading onto the final dungeon and such now.

[blackjaw]

Return it.

What a disappointment. I wouldn't be surprised if this was at least partially developed by a third-party like Tose on a limited budget. It's playable and it's not broken, there's no bugs, but it's just not fun.

Thank you for your honest opinion. I really do value that above the mainstream reviewers and it basically confirmed exactly what I feared (the little bits that I picked out from each review that seemed to be glossed over or ignored). It sounds like I would've gotten to 10-15 hours and never picked it up again. I'll give this a rental to see how far I can progress and grab another RPG or GTA.

[Dead of Knight]

Oh yeah, and one more thing that pisses me off: You can only have 4 members in your battle party (+1 support character) even though there is clearly enough room for 6. What I mean is in the formation menu, you can position your characters in any of the 6 spaces, but you only have 4 characters. WTF?

[slidecage]

Oh yeah, and one more thing that pisses me off: You can only have 4 members in your battle party (+1 support character) even though there is clearly enough room for 6. What I mean is in the formation menu, you can position your characters in any of the 6 spaces, but you only have 4 characters. WTF?

was wondering what was up with that.. ALSO the support says HEals 1 person at end of each turn.. sometimes 2 people gets healed...

[ChibiJosh]

The second person gets healed because they have an ability equiped that does it. It's not the support person, I thought that at first too.

[Z_meista]

hmmm... i think i'll buy it if the price is lower...

[Dead of Knight]

Jesus farking Christ I am sick of backtracking out of longass dungeons for no other reason than to pad the length of the game. Would it have killed them to include an Escape Talisman item or automatically transport you out? If I weren't approaching the final boss I would have just shut off the game at this point. Like I said, the frequent random encounters are so easy and give so little experience that there is absolutely NO reason for it.

Selling it back to Gamestop tomorrow as soon as I beat it unless someone here wants it.

[slidecage]

Jesus farking Christ I am sick of backtracking out of longass dungeons for no other reason than to pad the length of the game. Would it have killed them to include an Escape Talisman item or automatically transport you out? If I weren't approaching the final boss I would have just shut off the game at this point. Like I said, the frequent random encounters are so easy and give so little experience that there is absolutely NO reason for it.

Selling it back to Gamestop tomorrow as soon as I beat it unless someone here wants it.


I buy it off you at gamestop price : ) i think they offer 12 for it

[Rodimus]

I need to sit down and just play some of this, I haven't had a chance to play. Only about 2 hours in, but what I've played I liked.

[Draekon]

I liked the game outside of a couple things that Dead of Knight mentioned such as:

- You move slow but I thought it was fine after obtaining the Godspeed Amulet (Which I think I glitched...? 'Cause the speed stayed even though I didn't have it equipped on anyone)
- Encounters happens a bit too frequently.
- Dungeons are long for how frequent the encounter rate is due to the amount of 'fake' passages (most of which don't have any chest or such). As such they really needed some kindof quick scape like a chimera wing or teleport charm/character.
- Recruiting characters that require you to go explore a dungeon again sucks.

Also wish there was more equipment to choose from and characters were limited more on what they can equip. Also maybe a little more variety in the marks of the stars that characters gain. It was about what I expected from a spinoff from the main series though. They generally aren't great.

[BlueLobstah]

Still waiting on my copy to come in from Amazon.

Seems like choosing the "super saver" shipping really means "ship next year".

[BlueLobstah]

Konami allowed two prominent fansites to pose questions and answer them. You can find the results from Suikox (http://www.suikox.com/news/2009/03/25/Answers-to-questions-from-Konami.html) and Suikosource (http://www.suikosource.com/qa.php).

One question hit the nail on the head, and the result is rather disappointing:

Suikoden Tierkreis may be a spin-off, and a handful of fans may wish it be forgotten from the rest of the series, I think it also brings interesting elements to the series. I've played the game and see virtually no linkage to the main series despite the production team claiming that this is set in a parallel dimension. So, any plans to link Tierkreis' plot back to the future installment in the main series?

There isn't a direct connection to the former series, but Suikoden Tierkreis and the former series both are on the same "Infinity." In Tierkreis, we focused the "Infinity" concept, so we could look at whole Suikoden worlds, and developed a completely new story from there. This is because we wanted to expand new "Gateways" and new "Possibility" for the future of Suikoden. It's a bit too early to say exactly how the series will progress but please look forward to future announcements.


As a Suikoden fan, I feel like Tierkreis is a cop-out. Sure, Suikoden elements may exist in the game, but it is also missing some key elements that make Suikoden interesting and different from every other RPG on the market - back story and mythology. The "infinity" concept that keeps popping up just seems like a lazy way out to not continue on the previous foundation.

In other news, Miki Higashino is freelancing and may be considered for future projects. She composed largely for Suikoden I & II in addition to the Suikogaidens.

I did finally receive my copy today, and am only about 1 hour in, so I haven't had enough time to make a real impression Suikoden-wise, but it seems like it's pretty standard RPG fare. Other than themaincharactertalkingsofastthatitsdifficulttocom prehendwhatheissaying and the poorly chosen font, I'm enjoying it thus far.

[Dead of Knight]

As a Suikoden fan, I feel like Tierkreis is a piece of shit. Yes, even compared to 4.

[Rodimus]

They really needed this story to connect in some way. For whatever reason they wanted to create something new is fine. Make the story in some remote part of the world 500 years before everything. This way they could've gone crazy with some BS story while not alienating fans.

Pop in Pesamerga, say he's looking for Yuber, have Viki fall from the sky mid game. Then at the end Leknaat tells you how awesome you are for collecting all 108 stars. I'd be happy.

While I love the classic JRPG gameplay of Suikoden what pulls me in more is the story and characters. I think that's true for most fans. Throwing out that deep history is a mistake. While the game isn't bad it wont steer new gamers torwards the series.

END RANT

[rothgar24]

That voice acting clip is so painful I thought it was fake. I don't think I can buy this after that and DOK's comments.

[bvharris]

That voice acting clip is so painful I thought it was fake. I don't think I can buy this after that and DOK's comments.

I'm not too far in, but man is the voice acting bad. I retract my earlier comment about FFIV being worse.

I have a dream that I'm going to meat the guy who voiced the main character, and if I do, I'm going to punch him in the face.

[slidecage]

i dont find the game bad at all... though its too easy i still say it is one of the better games i played this year..

Just got FF Echoes for the ds yesterday and sending it back to gamefly today.. THe controls are so ##$#$# up its not funny. to fight the first boss you need to unlock two chain doors run and push the block out before the floor gives away.. most the time your person is just not pushing the block right and you just keep falling...


just looking today. since gamefly has really nothing out till CLASS OF HEROES (what looks like a clone of Etrian Odyssey idont know to keep it or send it back

[bvharris]

I'm about 6 hours in and I'm really enjoying it so far, as long as I turn down the volume during the voice-acted scenes. Question for those who have gotten further with it - does it ever get any more difficult? Given the fact that you heal when you level up, I don't think I've used a healing spell more than a few times so far, and most bosses (I use that term loosely) can be beaten with just physical attacks. Oh well, I'm enjoying it anyways.

[Dead of Knight]

I'm about 6 hours in and I'm really enjoying it so far, as long as I turn down the volume during the voice-acted scenes. Question for those who have gotten further with it - does it ever get any more difficult? Given the fact that you heal when you level up, I don't think I've used a healing spell more than a few times so far, and most bosses (I use that term loosely) can be beaten with just physical attacks. Oh well, I'm enjoying it anyways.
No. No bosses except for the final boss last more than 3 rounds. And the final boss is still very easy.

[ChibiJosh]

I beat it over the weekend. I enjoyed it. I thought the story was pretty cool, and had some unique elements to it.

It was pretty easy though. There was one point during one of the multiple party parts near the end that I forgot to equip some magic on one of the parties, and during that party's boss fight, the boss didn't attack for the first 4 turns.

My biggest gripe was no ability to teleport out of dungeons. Also, the magic didn't have enough variance between the characters.

[slidecage]

i figure if i can play Lunar dragon song i can play anything : )

[BlueLobstah]

I've finally had some time to play this and wanted to post my impressions.

As a Suikoden fan, I must admit I would playing this game being extremely biased considering the initial impressions from everyone else, and knowing where the game ultimate makes it mark in the series. Having played a good 15 hours into the game, ultimate the game does feel like Suikoden while missing some of the major elements that are typical of the main series.

As a RPG, Tierkreis does not disappoint. It's a solid release for the DS, and I would personally recommend to anyone. As a Suikoden title, well, it falls short. The Mark of the Stars when compared to Suikoden's rune based system is ultimately confusing and utterly useless in 90% of the game. Why didn't Konami just stick with runes?

Additionally, the lack of war battles and duels leaves a bitter taste in my mouth, especially when there have been several instances in the story where they would have fit perfectly.

While the background elements were absolutely fantastic, I feel that sprite based characters especially on the hand held system suit Suikoden much better. Many of the models felt out of place and character when compared to the gorgeous backgrounds of the game's environments. Please leave 3D characters to the consoles.

Where the game does ultimately feel like Suikoden is in the plot and the music (and sadly... the translation). Fate has always played a large role in the series, and Tierkreis is no exception. The music is also inherently Suikoden, playing upon themes of previous titles and utilizing similar motifs which ultimately fall right in line with Suikoden.

Ultimately, I hope this isn't the future of Suikoden, but I could see Konami picking up a few things from this title which could benefit Suikoden in the long run. The quest/mission based system being implemented in future titles could be a huge benefit to Suikoden.

As Rodimus mentioned, I don't think this is really a step forward for the Suikoden series as a whole, and don't feel as this title could pull in new fans, especially given the rarity of II & III. To be honest, I'm not looking for another Suikoden II, but rather a game that expands upon the rich history of the Suikoden series that fans have come to know and love. While Tierkreis stands to be a solid RPG title, it disappoints the Suikoden name. Please Konami, let this be the end of the line for these kinds of ideas.

[hero101]

I better start this game tomorrow or something. I'm still playing FF IV DS.