The eagerly anticipated mobile game from the Suikoden series, Suikoden STAR LEAP, is poised to deliver a console-like experience with the convenience of mobile gaming. This article delves into the developers' approach to crafting Star Leap and its alignment with the storied Suikoden series.
Suikoden STAR LEAP Is The Franchise's First Mobile RPG
Konami Wanted To Reach A Wider Audience
The forthcoming mobile title, Suikoden STAR LEAP, promises an experience akin to that of a console game. In an insightful interview with Famitsu on March 4, 2025, the developers behind Star Leap shared their vision and approach to the game. Star Leap Producer Shinya Fujimatsu explained Konami's decision to opt for a mobile platform, stating, "We wanted as many people as possible to experience Suikoden, so we chose mobile as the easiest hardware to play. And if you are going to touch it, I want it to have the soul of Suikoden properly, so I am taking on the challenge of creating a numbered work."
The development team's goal is to fuse the high-quality visuals, sound, and storytelling of console games with the accessibility of mobile platforms, delivering a top-tier gaming experience on the go.
Expressing Suikoden in STAR LEAP
Fujimatsu highlighted the essence of Suikoden, noting that the series uniquely blends themes of war with the warmth of friendship. He emphasized the importance of depicting the story of the new 108 stars in Suikoden STAR LEAP. Director Yoshiki Meng Shan elaborated on the series' characteristics, pointing out its upbeat atmosphere alongside serious moments. He added, "The other is the tempo of the battles, and I think that the fact that many characters participate in battles and work together is also unique to Suikoden."
Both a Sequel and a Prequel to the Series
Suikoden STAR LEAP will serve as both a sequel and a prequel to the series, navigating through different eras within its narrative. This new installment will be woven into the official history of Suikoden, beginning two years before the events of Suikoden 1 and extending through various periods, effectively acting as both a sequel and prequel to Suikoden 1 to 5.
Fujimatsu encouraged fans to anticipate the high quality of Star Leap, saying, "Even if you have never touched the series, we have made it easy to play in the form of mobile and easy to get used to the story and game, so we hope that you will experience this game as the first game in 'Suikoden Genso'."
Meng Shan echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the comprehensive attention to detail in the game, stating, "Suikoden is one of the leading RPG series in Japan. In keeping up with its name, we have paid attention to everything from the story, graphics, battle system, sound, and training system to live up to its name. We hope you will be able to play it after the release."
Suikoden STAR LEAP was first unveiled during the Suikoden Live broadcast on March 4, 2025, alongside other exciting developments in the series. The game is in development for iOS and Android platforms, though an official release date has yet to be announced.