You Won’t Believe What Konami Did to Suikoden I & II

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The classic role-playing games (RPG) from Konami’s Suikoden series, particularly the original and its sequel, stand out as enduring experiences on the PlayStation console, often recognized as a crucial platform for RPG games. However, while many contemporaries of these games have seen re-releases, remasters, or remakes on modern hardware, the first two Suikoden games seem to have been largely forgotten in history. Apart from a Japan-only port to the PSP titled Genso Suikoden I & II, previous re-releases of these original Suikoden titles were limited to PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Vita as PSOne Classics. So, it was quite significant when Konami announced the HD Remaster of Suikoden I & II in 2022, catching the attention of longtime fans.

Konami has combined two of its beloved 5th-generation games, Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars, and updated them for modern platforms like current-gen consoles and PC. Refreshing classic games for dedicated fanbases can be a delicate task for developers, requiring a balance between inviting newcomers while respecting the sentiments, nostalgia, and familiarity of those who consider these games part of their formative years. Suikoden I & II HD Remaster primarily chooses to tread carefully in this aspect, enhancing each game’s graphics and sound subtly without altering their original essence, and preserving the core gameplay of both Suikoden and Suikoden II as closely as possible – a laudable attempt at conserving these games’ authentic experiences.

In essence, the remastered collection of the “Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars” seems somewhat underwhelming compared to expectations, as it lacks significant enhancements or upgrades to the original gaming experience offered by both “Suikoden” and “Suikoden II.” However, given the substantial impact these games have on the role-playing game (RPG) genre, and their ability to remain relevant in today’s gaming landscape, the “Suikoden I & II HD Remaster” remains an engaging experience for any RPG enthusiast, whether you’re a newcomer to the series or a seasoned player who has embarked on the quest to collect 108 Stars of Destiny multiple times.

Suikoden I & II HD Remaster Proves Both Titles Have Aged Gracefully

One reason for Konami’s strategy with the Suikoden I & II HD Remaster might be traced back to how well the original PlayStation 1 versions have held up compared to other RPGs from that period. Since they employ 2D pixel art, games like Suikoden and Suikoden II seem to age more elegantly than many early 3D role-playing games. The visual updates Konami incorporates in the remastered versions of these titles offer a taste of modernization without compromising the original’s aesthetics and mood.

In both games, the 3D assets have been utilized to revamp the world maps, and the environmental design has undergone a complete makeover. While it doesn’t quite reach the quality of high-definition 2D remakes like “Live A Live” and “Dragon Quest 3”, it still represents a significant enhancement over the original games’ towns, castles, and dungeons. The character models have been refined to highlight their design intricacies and artistic elements. Battles now feature extra animations, motion blur, particle effects, and other aesthetic enhancements. As for visual improvements, Konami chose mainly to preserve the gameplay of “Suikoden” and “Suikoden II”, which many argue makes the remaster even more appealing.

The original gameplay enhancements may not be numerous, but they are certainly discernible. Regrettably, the clunky inventory system from the initial Suikoden persists in the remastered version. As for combat, while it now boasts improved visual elements, it primarily offers a new adjustable battle speed option alongside the auto-battling that was present in both games’ original PlayStation 1 versions. However, given that the gameplay of Suikoden and Suikoden II forms a robust base for the overall experience, it seems fitting that Konami chose to maintain the authenticity of these titles by preserving the gaming experience.

Suikoden and Suikoden II Remain Two of the Greatest ‘RPG Comfort Food’ Titles

Beyond their visually stunning and timeless appeal, Suikoden and Suikoden II offer some of the most satisfying “comforting” role-playing game (RPG) experiences within the genre, regardless of a player’s familiarity with the series. Originating from the Classical Chinese novel The Water Margin, whose Japanese title shares the same name, the original Suikoden places players in the role of young hero Tir McDohl, whose respected father Teo McDohl is a general in the Scarlet Moon empire. As a result of a series of unexpected events, Tir and his companions find themselves at odds with the state, deciding to rebel against it and rally support for overthrowing the corrupt government. Players then embark on a quest to collect the 108 Stars of Destiny, which are equivalent to recruitable party members and allies who aid the protagonist in the battle against evil. The story ultimately revolves around a conflict between two powerful sorceress sisters who wield two of the world’s “Great Runes.

In the sequel titled Suikoden II, the story unfolds merely three years after the happenings of the initial game. This time, players assume the character of hero Riou, who is the adopted son of a renowned warrior from cities across the world map opposite that of Suikoden. Once more, players must amass 108 Stars of Destiny to help them defeat the Highland Army, a menacing force threatening these city-states. The mastermind behind this army is none other than Luca Blight, one of the most formidable antagonists in RPG history. Apart from several recurring characters from both Suikoden and Suikoden II, who join our protagonist on his adventure, the link between these two games is the sorceress Leknaat. She plays a pivotal role in guiding both Tir and Riou throughout their respective journeys.

The narratives in both Suikoden and Suikoden II offer straightforward stories with easily identifiable protagonists and antagonists, which is part of their enduring appeal. From a gaming and storytelling standpoint, Suikoden and its sequel might be excellent introductory points for newcomers to JRPGs. The HD Remaster of Suikoden I & II preserves the essential aspects of the original adventures that have endeared both games to their fans.

Suikoden I & II HD Remaster Forgoes Extensive Updates in Favor of Preservation

In comparison to many recent updates and reissues of popular RPGs like the Suikoden I & II HD Remaster offers fewer significant upgrades. Unlike games such as the Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster, there are no special “Boost” features, the management system for items and game balance appear unchanged from the original PS1 versions, and notably missing is a Gallery featuring concept art, development images, or other additional content often found in similar in-game museums. One positive aspect is that it includes a Sound Mode, which enables players to listen to any of Miki Higashino’s memorable tracks from both games at their leisure.

Essentially, the Suikoden I & II HD Remaster chooses to maintain the fundamental aspects that fans have grown fond of in both games. The combat, which remains turn-based, remains engaging and enjoyable, particularly when players unlock all 108 Stars of Destiny and can switch between various heroes at will. Moreover, the game’s dueling encounters and strategic warfare, features that have traditionally distinguished it from other classic JRPGs, are enhanced without being significantly changed, thanks to the addition of a visual aid showing the “rock-paper-scissors” relationship between commands.

Although it would have been enjoyable if Konami had incorporated extra features to make the Suikoden I & II HD Remaster more similar to the latest Final Fantasy or Tales of remakes, the fundamental gameplay of both titles remains so classic that it largely compensates for this. Ultimately, the availability of Suikoden and Suikoden II on modern hardware is a significant achievement worth commemorating.

Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars on multiple platforms starting March 6, 2025. We were given a PS5 code to write our review.

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2025-03-05 11:36