Suikoden 1 & 2 HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars review

• Available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Switch and PC
• Released on 6 March 2025
• Developed by Konami

Konami has done something special with Suikoden 1 & 2 HD Remaster. After decades of these classic JRPGs being locked behind pricey second-hand PlayStation copies, fans old and new can finally enjoy them on modern platforms with thoughtful enhancements that breathe fresh life into both games.

The remaster includes Suikoden and Suikoden II, both traditional in structure — exploring towns and dungeons, fighting random battles, traversing the world map — but each carries its own depth. Their stories are more grounded than many of their contemporaries, leaning into themes like loyalty, betrayal, and political intrigue rather than just magic and monsters. In both games, you’ll go from humble beginnings to leading a liberation army, forming bonds along the way that feel genuinely meaningful.

The hallmark of the series, however, is the 108 Stars of Destiny. These recruitable characters vary from essential to optional, but each brings something to the table. Some will fight alongside you, others expand your base with new features, mini-games, and services. And the more allies you recruit, the more strategic options you unlock during large-scale war battles.

Suikoden is the simpler game, clocking in at around 10 hours if you’re not chasing every recruit. It introduces a solid combat system built around six-member parties, rune-based magic, and Unite attacks where characters team up for special moves. The HD Remaster adds welcome quality of life improvements like auto-battle, faster combat speed, free movement with diagonal controls, and a streamlined item system.

Suikoden II builds on everything. It’s longer, more narratively ambitious, and introduces more complexity in combat by allowing up to three runes per character. The remaster adds improved lighting, redrawn portraits, and the option to toggle off an in-game timer that could otherwise limit access to some content.

There are a few hiccups. Suikoden II’s new localisation may raise a few eyebrows for returning players, and there’s the odd missing line of dialogue that might briefly trip you up. Still, these are minor blemishes on an otherwise stellar re-release.

Ultimately, Suikoden 1 & 2 HD Remaster is the definitive way to play two of the best RPGs from the ’90s. Whether you’re nostalgic or diving in for the first time, these games hold up wonderfully thanks to strong storytelling, meaningful choices, and now, modern conveniences that make them even easier to appreciate.