For over a decade, Suikoden fans have yearned for a return to the beloved JRPG series. That wait is almost over. The upcoming HD remaster of the first two games aims to reignite the series' popularity and pave the way for future installments.
Suikoden Remaster: A Revival of a Classic JRPG
A New Generation and Renewed Passion
The Suikoden I & II HD Remaster isn't just about updating graphics; it's about revitalizing a legacy. Director Tatsuya Ogushi and Lead Planner Takahiro Sakiyama hope this remaster will introduce a new generation to the magic of Suikoden while rekindling the passion of longtime fans.
In a Famitsu interview (translated via Google), Ogushi and Sakiyama expressed their hope that this remaster will act as a springboard for future Suikoden titles. Ogushi, deeply connected to the series, spoke of his admiration for the late Yoshitaka Murayama, the series creator: "I’m sure Murayama would have wanted to be involved as well," Ogushi said. "When I told him I was going to participate in the remake of the illustrations, he was very envious."
Sakiyama echoed this sentiment, emphasizing his desire to bring Suikoden back into the spotlight: "I really wanted to bring ‘Genso Suikoden’ back to the world, and now I can finally deliver it," he stated. "I hope that the IP ‘Genso Suikoden’ will continue to expand from here into the future." (Sakiyama, it's worth noting, directed Suikoden V.)
Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: A Closer Look
Comparison From Suikoden 1&2 HD Remaster Official Website
The Suikoden I & II HD Remaster builds upon the Japan-exclusive PlayStation Portable collection released in 2006. This remaster brings those enhancements to a global audience, adding modern touches while respecting the originals.
Visually, expect a stunning transformation. Konami promises enhanced background illustrations with rich HD textures, creating immersive and detailed environments. From the grandeur of Gregminster to the ravaged landscapes of Suikoden II, the world will feel more alive than ever. The pixel art sprites have been polished, maintaining the original charm while improving the visual fidelity.
A new Gallery mode showcases the game's music and cutscenes, and an event viewer lets you relive key moments—all accessible from the title screen.
This isn't just a simple port, though. The remaster addresses issues from the PSP release. For example, Suikoden II's infamous, previously shortened Luca Blight cutscene is restored to its original, uncut length.
Furthermore, certain dialogues have been updated to reflect modern sensibilities. For instance, Richmond, the private investigator from Suikoden II, no longer smokes, reflecting Japan's nationwide smoking bans.
Suikoden I & II HD Remaster launches March 6, 2025, on PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch. Ready to return to this classic JRPG world?
