RPGs terrorize Japanese mainland

[12.17.98] » Suikoden II, Thousand Arms, Ling Rise and many more titles are released in the land of the rising sun.

Suikoden II makes a promising debut

   December 17th, 1998 is a busy day for RPG enthusiasts in Japan. According to the latest release dates, a plethora of high-profile -- as well as some virtually unknown -- RPGs are scheduled to ship today for Japanese gamers.

   Genso Suikoden II, Ling Rise, and Thousand Arms are three popular RPGs which should now be available in most stores. Lesser known titles like Lunatic Dawn III, Atelier Elie, Monster Race and New Robot Brave War Saga have also been shipped. On the puzzle front, Hello Kitty White Present and Princess Maker Go! Go! Princess are set to compete for puzzlers' hearts.

   Despite the deluge of diversions, only two of the above-mentioned games are confirmed for a North American release: Genso Suikoden II and Thousand Arms. Ling Rise seems likely, while Lunatic Dawn III is also a possibility.

   Another notable title also released is Square's fighter, Ehrgeiz. Surprisingly, yet another Final Fantasy VII character has been found in the game -- Zack, Cloud's "counterpart" in SOLDIER. The consensus around GIA headquarters is that Square might as well rename the game to "Final Fantasy Fighter" to avoid confusion. Sadly, still no word on an American release.