Konami is breathing new life into the Suikoden series with Suikoden STAR LEAP, a brand-new mobile title set to launch on iOS and Android. Developed by MYTHRIL, the game will be free-to-play with in-game purchases, but a release date remains under wraps.
A Fresh Take on a Classic RPG Series
It’s been nearly three decades since Suikoden first captivated players with its rich storytelling and massive character rosters. Over the years, the franchise has built a dedicated following, thanks to its deep lore, political intrigue, and signature 108 Stars of Destiny concept.
Now, Konami is returning to the series with Suikoden STAR LEAP, the first Suikoden game designed specifically for mobile devices. Unlike previous entries, which largely followed a turn-based format, this new title promises a fresh experience that blends classic pixel art with modern visuals and dynamic sound design.
While nostalgia plays a big role in the announcement, Suikoden STAR LEAP introduces an all-new cast of 108 characters, setting the stage for a brand-new adventure.
The Story: A Village in Chaos, A Hero’s Journey Begins
At the heart of Suikoden STAR LEAP is the Rune of Change, one of the 27 True Runes believed to shape the world. The story kicks off in a quiet lakeside village near the Scarlet Moon Empire—a location familiar to longtime fans.
The protagonist, the son of village chief Hou, has just returned home from his first hunt, celebrating his success with the villagers. But the joy is short-lived. An attack on the village changes everything, sending the hero and his companions on a quest to restore peace.
Alongside his childhood friend Shirin, the reserved yet kind-hearted Hisui, and the enigmatic butler-turned-general Shapur, the protagonist is thrust into a much larger conflict—one that will redefine his destiny.
Meet the Key Characters
Konami has already introduced some of the game’s central figures, each brought to life with Japanese voice acting:
- Hero (Tomohiro Ono) – The son of the village chief, he’s courageous, kind, and the glue that holds the group together.
- Hisui (Hika Tsukishiro) – A servant in the hero’s household, she hides her emotions but has a naturally cheerful personality.
- Hou (Akio Otsuka) – The village chief and the hero’s father. He once led a band of ruffians before establishing the settlement. His past remains a mystery.
- Shirin (Fairouz Ai) – The hero’s childhood friend, she inherited her father’s fiery spirit and strong sense of justice.
- Shapur (Takuya Sato) – A former general now serving as a butler to the Hou family. His reasons for staying in a small village are unclear.
With 108 Stars of Destiny expected to make an appearance, these characters are just the beginning.
What Sets Suikoden STAR LEAP Apart?
Mobile RPGs are a crowded space, but Suikoden STAR LEAP is shaping up to stand out.
- Pixel Art with a Modern Twist – The game retains Suikoden’s traditional 2D aesthetic while incorporating modern animation techniques.
- A New Soundscape – Dynamic audio design aims to heighten the experience, with an original theme song, Campanula, performed by Kaho Nakamura.
- Expansive Character Roster – Collecting and forming bonds with 108 characters remains a core part of the game’s identity.
Konami’s decision to embrace mobile platforms suggests a push toward accessibility and a new generation of fans. However, it remains to be seen how microtransactions will factor into the gameplay experience.
A Long-Awaited Return, But What’s Next?
The Suikoden name carries weight in the RPG world, and STAR LEAP marks its first return in years. Fans of the franchise have been eagerly awaiting Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars, which was initially set for 2023 but has since been delayed indefinitely.
For now, Suikoden STAR LEAP provides a new way for fans to reconnect with the series. But will this mobile entry be a standalone experiment, or is Konami testing the waters for a full-fledged return of the main series?
That’s the question lingering in the minds of longtime players. Until a release date is confirmed, all eyes are on Konami for the next update.
