Suikoden Classics Reimagined for Modern Era

The long-awaited return of Suikoden! After over a decade of absence, the beloved JRPG franchise is poised for a comeback with the upcoming HD remaster of the first two games. This remaster aims to reignite the series' popularity and hopefully pave the way for future installments.

Suikoden Remaster: A New Generation Awaits

The Suikoden 1 & 2 HD Remaster is more than just a visual upgrade; it's a chance to introduce a new generation to this classic JRPG. Director Tatsuya Ogushi and Lead Planner Takahiro Sakiyama expressed their hopes in a recent Famitsu interview (translated via Google) that this remaster will rekindle the passion of longtime fans and serve as a springboard for future titles. Ogushi, deeply connected to the series, paid tribute to 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, added, "I really wanted to bring ‘Genso Suikoden’ back to the world, and now I can finally deliver it."

Suikoden 1 & 2 HD Remaster: A Closer Look

This remaster builds upon the 2006 Japan-exclusive PlayStation Portable collection, bringing enhanced visuals and gameplay to modern platforms. Konami promises stunning HD backgrounds, enriching the game's environments. While the pixel art sprites are polished, the original charm remains intact.

The remaster includes a Gallery showcasing music and cutscenes, and an Event Viewer to revisit key moments, both accessible from the main menu. Furthermore, several issues from the PSP version have been addressed. The infamous shortened Luca Blight cutscene in Suikoden 2 has been restored to its original length. Additionally, some dialogue has been updated to reflect modern sensibilities; for example, Richmond's smoking habit has been removed to align with Japanese smoking regulations.

The Suikoden 1 & 2 HD Remaster launches March 6, 2025, on PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch. This is a significant opportunity for both new and returning fans to experience these classic JRPGs in a revitalized form.