A mix of excitement and concern — this is likely the sentiment shared by many longtime fans of the Suikoden franchise as they take in the latest developments surrounding Konami’s newest RPG project, Suikoden Star Leap.
The excitement stems from the franchise’s return and the confirmation that the game will carry a canon storyline, suggesting that Konami hasn’t abandoned its legacy. However, concern also lies in the monetisation model, as the game follows the familiar mobile RPG formula where gacha mechanics form the core of its financial strategy.
Fortunately, fans can breathe a bit easier when it comes to the battle system. After previously focusing on story elements in earlier trailers, we now have a clearer idea of how Suikoden Star Leap is handling its combat mechanics.
How is Combat in Suikoden Star Leap?
Designed for both PC and mobile platforms, the battle system adopts the familiar DNA of classic Suikoden titles but with a more streamlined, modern approach. In addition to basic attacks, each character has access to Rune-based abilities that operate on a cooldown system. A special gauge also allows characters to unleash powerful Secret Techniques, their version of an ultimate move, complete with visually striking animations.
The trailer further introduces the team composition system, which includes a core team of six characters, along with support characters that can grant various beneficial effects. Interestingly, the team setup screen also reveals the game’s character rarity system, featuring Normal, SR (Super Rare), and SSR (Super Super Rare) units, highlighting how gacha mechanics will be integrated into progression and recruitment.
One brief glimpse even teases large-scale war battles, one of the Suikoden series’ signature features. However, unlike earlier entries that offered unique strategic war segments, these encounters in Suikoden Star Leap appear to be handled through the same six-member party combat format as regular battles.
Despite these reveals, Konami has yet to announce a specific release date for Suikoden Star Leap, which is currently planned for both mobile and PC platforms.
