Description

"Gensou Suikoden," originally released for the PlayStation in 1995 and later ported to the Sega Saturn in 1998, is a role-playing video game developed by Konami. Set in a fantastical and richly detailed world based on a classical Chinese novel, "Water Margin," the game’s narrative centers around the young hero, Tir McDohl, who must amass an army of up to 108 characters (known as the 108 Stars of Destiny) to confront a corrupt and tyrannical empire. The game blends traditional RPG elements with strategic warfare, requiring the player to engage in turn-based combat and large army battles. Unique in its scope, "Suikoden" stood out for its vast ensemble of characters, each with their depth and stories, compelling players to explore various interactions and recruit as many as possible to build a strong, multidimensional force.

The Sega Saturn version of "Gensou Suikoden" came with a few enhancements over its PlayStation counterpart, including improved graphics and additional features. One significant inclusion was the added characters and scenarios, which enriched the storyline and added further depth to the already expansive world. Notably, the port allowed for a broader scale of the battle scenes, rendering them more dynamic and visually compelling. Despite its success and critical acclaim, the Saturn version saw a limited release, mostly confined to the Japanese market, making it a sought-after collector's item for fans outside Japan. "Suikoden" pioneered many mechanics that would become staples in later RPGs and is remembered for its progressive narrative structure and the emotionally resonant journey of its vast array of characters.