Suikoden II is the sequel to the early PlayStation RPG, and picks up with a new story of political strife, betrayal and war. The player takes on the role of an orphan who has been raised by a battle hero in an ancient war, alongside his best friend Jowy - a boy born of nobility but unable to receive approval from his father. As they join the Alliance military force, they are thrown into battles on a grand scale which will test their relationships and reveal each character's personalities. The turn-based battle system allows for Runes to be equipped for special abilities as well as chain combos or spells between party members; there is also an Auto mode available.