Suikoden HD Remasters Aim to Ignite Series Resurgence

After over a decade of absence, the beloved Suikoden series is making 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, potentially paving the path for future installments.

Suikoden Remaster: A New Chapter for a Classic

Reaching New and Old Fans Alike

The Suikoden 1 & 2 HD Remaster is poised to revitalize this cherished JRPG series. Director Tatsuya Ogushi and Lead Planner Takahiro Sakiyama recently expressed their hopes that this remaster will not only introduce the series to a new audience but also rekindle the passion of longtime fans.

In a Famitsu interview (translated via Google), Ogushi and Sakiyama revealed their ambition for the remaster to act as a springboard for future Suikoden titles. Ogushi, deeply connected to the series, shared his respect for the late Yoshitaka Murayama, the series creator. "I'm sure Murayama would have wanted to be involved," Ogushi stated. "When I told him I was going to participate in the remake of the illustrations, he was very envious."

Sakiyama highlighted his commitment to bringing Suikoden back into the spotlight. "I really wanted to bring ‘Genso Suikoden’ back to the world, and now I can finally deliver it," he said. "I hope that the IP ‘Genso Suikoden’ will continue to expand from here into the future." Sakiyama, who previously directed Suikoden V, is eager to contribute to the series' resurgence.

Suikoden 1 & 2 HD Remaster: A Closer Look

Comparison From Suikoden 1&2 HD Remaster Official WebsiteThis remaster builds upon the 2006 Japan-exclusive Genso Suikoden 1 & 2 PlayStation Portable collection, bringing enhanced versions of these classic JRPGs to a global audience for the first time. Konami has modernized the collection with significant improvements.

Visually, the remaster boasts enhanced HD background illustrations, creating more immersive and detailed environments. Expect stunning visuals, from the grand castles of Gregminster to the battle-scarred landscapes of Suikoden 2. While the original pixel art sprites have been refined, their classic charm remains intact.

A new in-game Gallery showcases music and cutscenes, and an Event Viewer lets players revisit memorable moments—both accessible directly from the main menu.

Beyond visual enhancements, the remaster addresses several issues from the PSP release. The infamous shortened Luca Blight cutscene in Suikoden 2 has been restored to its original length. Additionally, certain dialogues have been updated to reflect modern sensibilities; for instance, Richmond's smoking habit has been removed to align with Japan's smoking regulations.

Suikoden 1 & 2 HD Remaster is launching March 6, 2025, on PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch. For a deeper dive into the gameplay and narrative, further articles are available.