Eiyuden Chronicle to Forge Ahead with Sequel in Honor of Yoshitaka Murayama
In a heartfelt dedication to their work and the memory of a visionary, Rabbit & Bear Studios has confirmed their unwavering commitment to continue the Eiyuden Chronicle saga with a new installment. Even as the gaming community mourns the loss of Yoshitaka Murayama, the celebrated creator behind the ambitious Eiyuden Chronicles: Hundred Heroes, his team vows to honor his legacy by pushing forward with sequels.
The announcement came amidst the anticipation for Eiyuden Chronicles: Hundred Heroes, which is scheduled to launch on multiple platforms, including PlayStation, Xbox, PC, and Switch. In a recent discussion, representatives from the studio, including character designer and studio head Junko Kawano, director and system designer Osamu Komuta, and art director and producer Junichi Murakami, shared insights on their future goals.
“Our objective remains clear–to advance with the development of a sequel,” the team conveyed during their interaction with fans. Stating further, they expressed a hopeful sentiment, “We anticipate the community’s support as we continue on this journey.“
The conversation touched on the profound impact of Murayama’s passing, acknowledging the deep void left behind. “Losing Murayama is a sorrowful reality. However, our discussions with him have laid a strong foundation. It is our collective hope to persevere in carrying forward his creative vision. We deeply cherish his final masterpiece and wish for widespread support for this venture,” shared the team, underlining their determination to keep Murayama’s spirit alive through the game.
Tributes flowed as the team reminisced about their time with Murayama, painting a picture of a creator fiercely devoted to innovation. “Murayama distanced himself from nostalgia. He was driven by a desire to break new ground,” they reflected. The team fondly remembered Murayama’s resilience and how his spirits lifted seeing the joy his work brought to fans, “His happiness in the presence of his fans’ enthusiasm was unmatched. He cherished this community deeply.”
Unfortunately, Murayama’s untimely departure in February meant he would not witness the debut of Eiyuden Chronicles: Hundred Heroes. Rabbit & Bear Studios, in a previous statement, expressed their sorrow, acknowledging the completion of his work on the game’s scenario and their resolve to move forward. “We are heartbroken that he will not see the fruits of his labor. Yet, we are committed to carrying on his dream, ensuring the world he envisioned through Eiyuden Chronicle thrives,” the studio announced.
Eiyuden Chronicles: Hundred Heroes emerges as a spiritual successor to the beloved Suikoden series, another of Murayama’s creations that gained critical acclaim on the PlayStation in the ’90s. Fans of the series can also look forward to HD remasters of the initial two Suikoden games, signaling a revival of Murayama’s influential work.
In tribute to Yoshitaka Murayama, Rabbit & Bear Studios remains dedicated to preserving and enhancing his legacy through the Eiyuden Chronicle series, inviting the gaming community to support their endeavor in honoring a legend who dreamt of creating worlds that unite and inspire.
