Suikoden III is set roughly 16 in-game years after the events of Suikoden II. The game takes place in the diverse Grasslands region which is located to the east of the kingdoms in the first two games. The story revolves around three main playable characters each with a different political affiliation and showing a different side of the central conflict of the game between the Grasslands, Zexen and Harmonia. Each of the characters has their own separate interests and responsibilities but all will eventually learn of a plot to take control of the True Fire Rune which holds the power to shift the fates of nations. Myths of the Fire Bringer abound and it is up to the player to get to the bottom of these issues.
Released shortly before Murayama's departure from Konami, Suikoden III attempts to apply the formula to a large, interconnected story between three disparate perspectives. The game's tone doesn't necessarily resemble Suikoden II's apprehension or the motif of rebellion in Suikoden, but instead tries to merge the two, enhanced by a more uplifting mood and a penchant for heartwarming side stories, with a surprising tinge of humor. Even the major headquarters - a staple of the series, is cleverly set in a different scenario, one tied to a more conventional yet sweetly innocent tale.
This isn't to say that the series' pragmatic tone is all but lost, however. Suikoden III manages to stay as politically involved as its predecessors, marking a greater emphasis on race and social classes than before. The turn-based tactical segments - previously a mere afterthought meant for story setpieces, improves dramatically. Despite the experimentation, one can notice the series' gradual regression to JRPG conventions, with its plot precariously reaching into the realm of magic as a major topic as opposed to simply maintaining the theme.
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Not as brilliant as Suikoden II but I'd still say it's stronger than Suikoden I. Not exceptionally mindblowing in terms of art design or polish but certainly has a much more satisfying political plot than the first game with a notable lack of any cartoonish villain.
The three main characters gimmick is actually really cool. There are some interesting points where you'll play an event as one character and then have it completely recontextualized when you play through it again as another character. The side perspectives work as well. I actually found myself wishing that it would have caught on more in the JRPG world.
Gameplay is standard JRPG stuff except that you are forced to attack two party members at a time for some reason. Strategy sections are much better than the rock, paper, scissors combat of the first game.
Definitely worth playing for fans of the series and newcomers.
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