Fans of the Suikoden series of games were likely very surprised by the announcement of Suikoden STAR LEAP. Given that it has been nearly 20 years since the last entry, it has definitely warranted the attention it has been receiving. While important details surrounding the upcoming new Suikoden game are still vague, its developer, Konami, has at least provided enough information to allow players to get properly excited for the release.
On March 4, 2025, Suikoden STAR LEAP was announced during the Suikoden Live broadcast. The game is set to be both a prequel and sequel, with players jumping through different eras within the series as they continue to play. Currently, it is confirmed to be a mobile title for iOS and Android devices, with no signs of whether it will make its way to consoles. While that could change in the future, it is important to consider what being playable on phones means for the title, as such a decision could mean that certain things fans are used to from the series may take on a new approach.
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Suikoden STAR LEAP Ensures That Series Staples Will Be Fitted To Match the Modern Era of Mobile Gaming
Suikoden STAR LEAP intends to bring back features and mechanics that made the previous entries in the series work. However, based on the trailer and information Konami has shared, the franchise will undergo a few modifications to fit the more microtransaction and gacha-oriented style of modern mobile games, which is shown in the following ways:
- Much like the classic titles, the gameplay will involve creating and improving a main headquarters, but with the added twist of having waiting periods that players can circumvent by purchasing items with real-world currency that speed up the development process.
- While it is stated that players can recruit the main cast of 108 characters through normal progression, there will also be characters from other entries in the Suikoden series who will make an appearance and are set to be obtained via a gacha and event system.
- Players will be able to play a good chunk of the story upon release, but since it is a mobile game, the narrative will not be fully complete on release and will be slowly doled out as more updates are introduced to keep people playing.
There’s no denying that there is a lot of interest surrounding the development of Suikoden STAR LEAP, especially given its status as a mobile title and how it has to live up to some of the best story-based JRPGs of all time. Whether it will be widely accepted by fans and find success will depend entirely on Konami and MYTHRIL’s execution, as even the slightest mishandling of its microtransaction and gacha aspect can lead to outrage that negatively affects the game.
Suikoden STAR LEAP Aims To Help Newcomers Get Into the Series
There might be many who viewed Suikoden STAR LEAP‘s trailer but are hesitant to play it upon release due to having little to no clue about the series, which could lead to a lack of understanding of the overall narrative. That is a problem the game easily overcomes, though, as the new entry taking place throughout the different timelines guarantees players will be given information on what has happened, allowing them to more easily enjoy the new story. Further, the advantage of being a mobile title means anyone can play STAR LEAP anytime and anywhere, making it the most accessible of all the mainline entries. Although it may not carry the depth of previous Suikoden games, it can be a good gateway towards them, considering how easy it’s likely to be to pick up.
With the recent release of the Suikoden I&II HD remasters, there has been a renewed interest in the series, and it’s up to Suikoden STAR LEAP to carry on that momentum as soon as it’s out. It has all the resources it needs to be a title that reaches success beyond its predecessors, and hopefully, Konami ensures that it does so.
