Konami Unveils 'Gensou Suikoden' Anime Set for 2026 Debut, Confirms 'Riliu' as Protagonist, and Announces Main Cast

Tokyo Game Show 2025 recently served as the stage for a monumental announcement from Konami, electrifying fans with significant new details regarding the highly anticipated Gensou Suikoden anime adaptation. Set to premiere in 2026, this series promises to breathe new life into the beloved Genso Suikoden II RPG, delivering its rich narrative and expansive world to a global audience.

In a revelation that has captivated long-time enthusiasts, the previously unnamed protagonist, affectionately known as Riou across various media, has been officially christened Riliu for the anime. This marks a pivotal moment for the franchise, giving a definitive name to a character deeply cherished by fans.

Bringing Characters to Life: The Stellar Voice Cast

The stellar voice cast bringing these iconic characters to life was also unveiled. Toshiki Kumagai steps into the role of Riliu, portraying the kind-hearted yet resolute main character, whose journey begins in Kyaro as a member of the Unicorn Youth Brigade. Joining him are Shimba Tsuchiya as Jowy, Riliu's inseparable childhood friend, and Ayumi Hihara as Nanami, Riliu's adopted stepsister. Veterans Katsuyuki Konishi and Yuichi Nakamura lend their formidable talents to the series, voicing Viktor, the audacious mercenary dubbed 'Vagabond Viktor,' and Flik, the master swordsman known as 'Flik of the Blue Lightning,' respectively.

Behind the Scenes: An Impressive Production Team

Behind the scenes, the anime boasts an impressive roster of industry luminaries. Yuzo Sato directs, with Masataka Tsuchiya guiding the series composition. Fumi Ishikawa and Arata Suzuki from Konami Digital Entertainment provide the original character designs, expertly adapted for animation by Ryō Yamauchi. The auditory landscape will be meticulously crafted by sound director Yoshikazu Iwanami and composer Koji Nakamura, ensuring an immersive experience. Spearheaded by KONAMI animation and with planning by NBCUniversal Entertainment Japan, the production promises a faithful and visually stunning rendition.

The event also showcased exclusive anime character profiles and a captivating new visual, alongside a nostalgic still from an iconic Suikoden II scene, powerfully illustrating the profound bond between Riliu and Jowy.

Beyond the anime, Konami is actively expanding the Suikoden universe. Fans can look forward to the forthcoming mobile and PC game Gensou Suikoden: Star Leap and a stage play adaptation of Suikoden I slated for December 2025. The immense anticipation surrounding the anime is palpable, with voice actors expressing their eagerness to embody these cherished characters and engage both loyal fans and a new generation of viewers. Gensou Suikoden is poised to be a standout release of 2026, offering a meticulously crafted and deeply engaging adaptation of a revered RPG masterpiece.