Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is a stupidly addictive title that got under my skin. Every aspect of this game made me grin from ear to ear. Furthermore, its spectacularly straightforward mechanics ensure that it is as casual as they come. Yet, there is a sense of repetition and the classic JRPG quirks will annoy some players. However, I was having none of that as I lost myself in its awe-inspiring story and world.
If you have played Suikoden or Eiyuden Chronicle: Rising, you’ll know exactly what you are getting. There is a vast, sprawling world to explore, a ridiculous number of heroes to recruit, and endless turn-based battles to tackle. Alongside this, there is a truly emotional story that is wonderfully narrated, and some tactical elements that will test your resolve. Consequently, it ticks many boxes for many people.
This JRPG was developed by Rabbit and Bear Studios and published by 505 Games. Moreover, this superb title is a spiritual successor to the much-loved Suikoden franchise. Accordingly, it has some fantastic old-school mechanics that are approachable and user-friendly. Additionally, the exceptional story unfolds at a comfortable pace. As such, you never feel out of your depth.
Eiyuden Chronicles: Hundred Heroes tells a tale of deceit.
Trust and honesty are 2 characteristics that many people favour. However, when power and control are at the fore, these soon fall by the wayside. Sadly, this is exactly what happens in Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes. The protagonists face a deadly decision that will change their lives as they know it. Yet, with a plucky team at his side, the hero of this tale can right the wrongs and save the day.
The story unfolds in a territory called Allraan. This dangerous place is split between different people and the Galdean Empire rules the roost. However, the Watch, a bunch of mercenaries with special powers, help to maintain balance. The leader of the empire, Dux Alric, wishes to control every region in the territory. Accordingly, he utilises the power of the rune lenses and a campaign of destruction and deception to trick his enemies. Yet, he hadn’t planned on the resolve of the Watch and their plucky leader, Nowa.
So much going on!
If you want a game that combines base building, mini-games, fishing, and fighting, then look no further! Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes packs so many layers into its gameplay that it should be impossible to play. However, the perfectly balanced story and drip-fed mechanics ensure that it is easy to follow and straightforward to master. Alongside this, the main story is divided into 3 key components. Each element tells the plot from a different perspective. Now, this could have been horrific. However, each bite-sized encounter and perfectly timed cinematic keeps you on track.
As the story unravels, you must venture from point A to B whilst completing quest after quest. The gameplay is punctuated by dungeon-crawling moments and an impressive 3D world map. The latter is traversed with an oversized Nowa model. This simple perspective gives the impression that great distances are covered in a matter of moments. I adore the quick and easy navigation and the beautiful environments you encounter.
Alongside this, there are plenty of heroes to recruit and a massive castle to redevelop. This base represents your in-game achievements. Furthermore, it allows you to kick back and relax with your army of warriors. It was a nice addition to the core gameplay and a perfect distraction from the never-ending adventures.
Turn-based combat.
Though exploration and the subsequent dungeon crawling are essential, you’ll enjoy a never-ending stream of fighting. This random mechanic will drive some people insane. Yet, I loved the repetitive battles and the ability to test out new tactical ideas. Your party is made up of up to 6 heroes. 3 may stand to the front and 3 hold the rear position. Each has a strength and weakness, and you must plan your party accordingly. In typical turn-based fashion, you will select your action of choice and watch the round evolve. Alternatively, you can select auto and let the computer take the burden.
The auto mode was great when you wanted no input into your teams’ actions. However, this wasn’t the best approach when you tackled a gargantuan boss. During these encounters, you have “gimmicks” that must be manipulated to improve your chances of winning. Additionally, you’ll need to maximise your rune abilities and your combo attacks to decimate your foes and be victorious. Sadly though, each foe has no weaknesses that can be targeted for a further advantage. This somewhat undermines the tactical layers and this was unfortunate.
Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is retro with a modern edge.
Pixelated games are two a penny. However, when the developer gets it right, it is divine to look at. This title gets every visual aspect spot on. The lush environments are juxtaposed with grim landscapes. Moreover, the character models are larger than life and wonderfully animated. On top of this, I loved the OTT combat and the impressive rune lens power. This captures every aspect of a fantasy RPG perfectly. Subsequently, I was impressed from beginning to end.
The audio is the glue that holds every layer together. Thanks to the awesome acting and the fantastic writing, every piece of cinematic and dialogue is fascinating. Alongside this, the music delivers a range of emotions. This varied soundtrack is superb! Whether it is the upbeat sound of success or a minor-laced song of doom, you will not get bored.
So much replay value.
I expected this to be challenging to master. Yet, Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is a cinch to play. The excellent tutorial is complemented by the well-considered controller layout. Furthermore, the impressive UI ensures that party management and every fine detail are straightforward to navigate.
I expected this to be all-consuming. However, I am so addicted to this title that I’ve struggled to put it down. Moreover, it has so much longevity and replay value. Consequently, you will lose hours of your life to this beautiful fantasy JRPG.
Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes gets it right.
I may be biased, but Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is practically perfect. The story is wonderfully absurd whilst being emotive and interesting. The volume of recruitable heroes is impressive and levelling them to a useful standard isn’t too challenging. Alongside this, I loved the blend of tactics and the minions and bosses you face. If you then consider the excellent base building and the mini-games, there is plenty to keep you busy. Accordingly, this is a superb JRPG and I recommend buying it here! Can you become a hero? Gather your party, hone your skills, and right the wrongs.
