Konami Revives Beloved JRPG Franchise with Suikoden 1 & 2 Remaster

After over a decade of absence, the beloved Suikoden series is poised for a comeback. The upcoming HD remaster of the first two games aims to reignite fan enthusiasm and introduce a new generation to this classic JRPG franchise.

Suikoden's Return: A New Chapter for a Classic

A Remaster to Revitalize a Generation

The Suikoden 1 & 2 HD Remaster isn't just a visual upgrade; it's a strategic move to reintroduce the series to a wider audience. Director Tatsuya Ogushi and Lead Planner Takahiro Sakiyama hope this remaster will both recapture the hearts of longtime fans and attract newcomers.

In a Famitsu interview (translated), Ogushi and Sakiyama expressed their ambition for the remaster to spark further Suikoden projects. Ogushi, a devoted fan himself, acknowledged the late Yoshitaka Murayama, the series creator, stating, "I’m sure Murayama would have wanted to be involved as well." Sakiyama, director of Suikoden V, highlighted his personal drive to revive the franchise, stating, "I really wanted to bring ‘Genso Suikoden’ back to the world."

A Closer Look at the Suikoden 1 & 2 HD Remaster

Based on the 2006 Japanese PlayStation Portable release, this remaster offers enhanced visuals and gameplay improvements. Konami promises stunning HD backgrounds, breathing new life into iconic locations. While the original pixel art style is maintained, expect refined character sprites and a more immersive experience.

The remaster includes a Gallery showcasing music and cutscenes, and an Event Viewer for revisiting pivotal moments. These features are conveniently accessible from the main menu.

Beyond visual enhancements, the remaster corrects past issues. The infamous, unintentionally shortened Luca Blight cutscene from Suikoden 2 is restored to its original length. Minor dialogue adjustments have also been made to reflect modern sensibilities; for instance, Richmond's smoking habit has been removed in accordance with Japanese smoking regulations.

Launching March 6, 2025, on PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch, the Suikoden 1 & 2 HD Remaster promises a nostalgic journey for veterans and a captivating introduction for newcomers.