Suikoden Series Top 5 Strategists

The Suikoden series is known for its intricate political intrigue and military strategies, with many brilliant tacticians who play key roles in the storylines. I will rank the top 5 strategists across the series based on their intelligence, foresight, adaptability, and impact on their respective games. There are many great strategists we can talk about, so let’s get into it!

5. Leon Silverberg

Leon Silverberg, another member of the famed Silverberg family which you see in Suikoden 1 and 2. He serves as a strategist for both the Scarlet Moon Empire and Highland. His cold, calculating nature allows him to make difficult decisions without hesitation. Unlike many other strategists, Leon is not bound by a particular moral compass and will do whatever it takes to achieve victory, even if it means supporting corrupt regimes.

You can particularly see this regarding his role in orchestrating the Kalekka incident. The whole reason was to turn the public pro-war, so they could continue to drive Jowston out of the empire. Not everyone agreed with this strategy, but it didn’t both Leon regardless. His role in orchestrating the deadly conflict in Suikoden 2, particularly his part in the events surrounding the final stages of the war, demonstrates his ruthless brilliance.

4. Elenor Silverberg

Elenor is also a member of the famous Silverberg family. She is another strategic powerhouse leading the protagonist in Suikoden 4. Initially, she was retired and disillusioned. She does return to assist the Hero of Suikoden 4 in their fight against the Kooluk Empire. Like her nephew Mathiu Silverberg, she demonstrates exceptional strategic prowess in naval battles and land campaigns.

Suikoden 4 was the first game where naval battles were introduced. Although they would play an aspect in Suikoden 5 as well, Elenor carefully trains Lazlo (the protagonist) and his allies. The purpose of the training was so she could make sure they were truly prepared for the harsh realities of war. Her ability to adapt to the changing dynamics of naval warfare and her keen mind for outwitting the Kooluk forces makes her one of the series’ standout strategists.

3. Mathiu Silverberg

Mathiu Silverberg is widely considered one of the top strategists in the Suikoden series. He was the chief strategist in Suikoden 1 for the Liberation Army. Mathiu is responsible for planning many of the key battles that eventually lead to the overthrow of the corrupt Scarlet Moon Empire. He is also part of the reason the Scarlet Moon Empire was successful before he stopped serving after the events that unfolded in Kalekka.

Although Mathiu was originally hesitant due to the Kalekka incident and the harshness of war he joined the Hero to overthrow the empire. His brilliance lies in his ability to unite diverse factions under a common cause, foresee enemy movements, and formulate complex battle plans that allow a relatively small army to achieve overwhelming victories. Despite his reluctance to return to a life of warfare, his dedication to justice and peace drives his exceptional strategic mind.

2. Lucretia Merces

Lucretia Merces is one of the most interesting strategists in the series. When you first find her in Suikoden 5, she is imprisoned in Agate Prison. Some might say her ideas are controversial at times, even stemming back to when Lucretia asked Lady Arshtat to bear the True Sun Rune before the events of Suikoden 5. Lucretia is known for her extraordinary tactical genius and deep understanding of people and politics.

She excels in manipulating her enemies’ weaknesses and is never afraid to use unconventional or morally ambiguous methods to achieve victory. Her strategic mind is showcased when she turns seemingly impossible situations into victories for the Prince’s army. Lucretia’s ability to outthink her opponents is unparalleled, and she always seems to be several steps ahead in every conflict.

1. Shu

Now if you knew me you could have seen this one coming. I believe Shu is the best strategist in the Suikoden series. Shu is the mastermind behind many of the key victories of the Dunan Unification War in Suikoden 2. A former student of Mathiu Silverberg, but did get expelled for ideological differences. Shu initially turns away from war but is eventually convinced to join the effort against Highland.

His strategic genius is displayed throughout the game, as he devises complex plans to outmaneuver enemies such as Luca Blight, one of the most dangerous and prolific antagonists in the series and games period. He also could unite people even when the outcomes seemed dire and unwinnable like the fight with Solon Jhee. Shu’s pragmatic approach and willingness to take risks, while balancing compassion for his allies, make him an exceptional strategist.

Final Thoughts on the Top Strategists in the Suikoden Series

I know I’m not including Apple (S1 and S2) or Ceaser Silverberg (S3). I just feel they didn’t make even close of an impact on the story or games that these other five did. Each of these five strategists has a unique approach to warfare and political maneuvering, but Shu, Mathiu Silverberg, and Lucretia Merces are often considered the top strategists in the Suikoden series.

This is thanks to their unparalleled foresight, ability to unite diverse factions, and mastery of military tactics. Elenor and Leon Silverberg round out the list due to their equally impressive but distinctive strategic abilities. Each with their own unique ways they approaching war as well. If you think I missed a different strategist or you would change the list, let me know!