How to Play the Suikoden Games in Chronological Order

Suikoden, developed by Konami, gained recognition for its extensive character roster and its exploration of complex political narratives. What makes the Suikoden series unique is its shared world, massive cast, and interconnected timeline, which combined are quite a rarity in the JRPG genre. The upcoming HD remaster of the first two games for the PS4, Switch, Xbox One, and PC is expected to bring a fresh wave of new fans to the franchise. Despite Suikoden’s straightforward numbered releases, understanding the timeline is essential for those who wish to play the Suikoden games in chronological order.

In the Suikoden universe, every game shares a common world, themes, and occasionally, characters. This unique approach can lead to subtle references or unexpected appearances of plotlines and characters from games. The interconnected narrative of Suikoden adds depth and surprises, enriching the experience that compounds with each game.

This is the list of all the Suikoden games in chronological order:

• Suikoden IV (PS2)
• Suikoden Tactics (PS2)
• Suikoden V (PS2)
• Suikoden (PSX, PSP, PS4, PC, Saturn, Switch, Xbox One)
• Suikoden II (PSX, PSP, PS4, PC, Switch, Xbox One) – also note that Suikoden Card Stories (GBA) is a retelling of this story.
• Suikoden III (PS2)

We excluded Suikoden Tierkreis (DS) and Suikoden: Tsumugareshi Hyakunen no Toki (PSP) from consideration here, as both exist in a different realm from the core Suikoden universe. Suikoden IV firmly anchors itself at the beginning of the timeline approximately 150 years before the first game. Suikoden Tactics, despite being a spin-off, is both a prequel and sequel to Suikoden IV. It begins its narrative nearly a decade prior to Suikoden IV and extends its story a few years beyond.

Suikoden V, the latest release in the series, takes place over 140 years after the events of its predecessor. Suikoden, the first game, begins its narrative around six years after Suikoden V. From this point, the chronological sequence mirrors the release order. Suikoden II follows with a storyline set a couple of years later. Finally, Suikoden III, takes place roughly 16 years after the events of Suikoden II.

Choosing the right play order

Unlike many series with complex overarching plots, Suikoden fans aren’t that rigid when it comes to the “correct” play order. While starting from the beginning of the timeline holds value, some fans argue that Suikoden IV may not be the best representation of the series and could potentially discourage newcomers.

Generally, it’s a good idea to play the first three Suikoden games in chronological order. However, whether you explore the rest of the timeline before or after is a matter of personal preference.

This flexibility is great news for new fans, as it means that the upcoming Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars is a perfect entry point into the series, offering a smooth introduction to the world.

The Suikoden series has been dormant since Suikoden V in 2006, though the remaster has rekindled hope among fans of a revival. In 2020, members of the original Suikoden team, including series creator Yoshitaka Murayama, initiated a crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter for their spiritual successor, Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes scheduled to release in 2024.