In the fast-paced universe of game releases, the Suikoden series had been gaining momentum lately, most likely due to the Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars, aiming to revisit the glory of its 90s classics. A lot of the anticipation is built on the promise of enhanced graphics, improved localization, and modern quality-of-life features. However, Konami recently announced the remaster’s delay, a move that speaks not just to the specifics of this franchise but broader issues in the industry.
The original announcement, with a tentative 2023 release window, gave the dedicated Suikoden community plenty of reasons to cheer. Unfortunately, that timeline has now been shelved.
While Konami refrained from specifying a new release date, the delay likely pushes the game into 2024. A tweet from Suikoden’s official account also corroborated the postponement, urging fans to keep their support for the series intact.
The primary reason cited for the delay is “ensuring quality performance and gameplay experience.” The development team appears committed to rectifying the original’s flawed localization and incorporating significant graphical as well as to mechanical improvements. This includes the capability to speed up battles, a dialogue log, auto-battle, and even double-speed battles. The remaster is aimed at multiple platforms – PC, PS4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch – and will be compatible with current-gen consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X|S.
The word “quality” stands out in the context of the delay. Given Konami’s focus on getting the remaster “as soon as possible,” they seem to be well aware of the pitfalls that come with rushing a release, especially for a game that hinges on nostalgia. This is particularly poignant when recalling recent instances where highly anticipated remasters fell short, such as Rockstar Games’ contentious efforts with the Grand Theft Auto series and Red Dead Redemption.
The term “quality” has a dual meaning here as well. On the one hand, it implies a standard Konami wants to meet since this remaster could introduce the Suikoden series to a new generation of gamers. On the other, it also appears as a nod to Suikoden’s spiritual successor, Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes, which is also delayed to next year and is currently in development by former Konami employees. One could speculate whether Konami aims to leverage the attention that Eiyuden Chronicle might generate to revive interest in the Suikoden series as a whole.
While the delay could be seen as a setback, it provides an opportunity for Konami to refine their remaster further, given that the Suikoden games already feature prominently in the JRPG genre’s history. Originally launched in 1995, followed by its sequel in 1998, the series was groundbreaking for its time and has since built a dedicated if somewhat niche, fanbase.
If nothing else, this “quality-first” focus is a good sign for Konami’s other pursuits. At the moment, Konami is reviving at least three other classics with Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1, which may or may not get a follow-up; Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater featuring the original voice cast; and, finally, a remake of Silent Hill 2.
It’s safe to say that Konami is leaning into their legacy titles after years of dormancy to kickstart a revival of sorts.
Ultimately, delays in the video game industry are a double-edged sword. While they test the patience of fans, they often signal a commitment to quality that could pay dividends in the long run. Final Fantasy 16, Diablo 4 (before the criticism), Baldur’s Gate 3, and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom all benefitted from lengthy delays.
For Suikoden I & II HD Remaster, this slight setback could mean a meticulously crafted tribute to an iconic series aiming to capture both old and new hearts. While the road ahead may be extended, the destination still promises a compelling revival, delivering not just a game but a polished experience worthy of the Suikoden legacy. And that is something worth waiting for.
