Gab Hernandez 
The Suikoden 1 and 2 remaster finally got release dates in the August 2024 Nintendo Direct, alongside the reveal of gameplay changes and quality-of-life improvements.
For JRPG fans, the Suikoden series stands alongside Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest as staples of the genre. Unlike either game, however, Suikoden never properly broke through commercially in Western markets. Many fans believe the franchise deserved that and more, thanks to its closely intertwined games and lore.
For years, Suikoden fans lost hope of its revival, especially when Konami began to distance itself from gaming in the 2010s. However, at the Tokyo Game Show 2022, Konami revealed its plans to remaster the first two Suikoden games, Gate Rune and Dunan Unification War. Two years later, the Suikoden remaster finally received a release date.
What did they change in the Suikoden remasters?
The Suikoden 1 and 2 HD Remaster will include a visual facelift alongside gameplay changes to streamline playthroughs.
Compared to the initial 2022 reveal, the Nintendo Direct trailer showcased a far more polished product. The visuals for the Suikoden remasters are noticeably sharper, with smoother animations and more vivid colors. The remaster also added updated effects and artistic flourishes, similar to the Dragon Quest 3 2D-HD remake.
In addition to the visual upgrades, the remasters also received some essential quality-of-life features.
Auto-save has been added to the game to ensure seamless progress. Players can also fast-forward battles to minimize the slog of lengthy encounters. Those who want to avoid the slog of battle can turn on auto-battles to sidestep manual inputs entirely.
Finally, conversation logs also record what characters say so players can easily keep track of the story. With an official release date, fans can now feel more confident about pre-ordering the game.
When is the release date for Suikoden 1 and Suikoden 2 HD Remaster?
Suikoden 1 & 2 remasters will launch for the Nintendo Switch on March 6, 2025
Players who pre-order the game receive a “DLC” Pack for both games with bonus currency and items.
The DLC pack contains 57,300 potch, a Fortune Orb, and a Prosperity Orb. The pack remains the same in Suikoden 1 and 2. The Fortune Orb doubles all experience gained by the player. The Prosperity Orb doubles the “potch” gained from winning battles.
However, Players cannot equip both orbs simultaneously in Suikoden 1. While some fans scoffed at the “pay-to-win” mechanic in a single-player adventure, these items remain obtainable through normal gameplay. After a years-long wait, most fans are just excited to get their hands on the Suikoden remaster.
