How important is suspense in the The Most Dangerous Game?

The whole story is rooted in suspense. So, if you take away suspense, you change what is central to the story.  We can see this in several ways.

First, in the beginning of the story, the island that they pass is mysterious. In fact, Rainsford’s friend, Whitney, says that the place is called Ship-Trap Island.  He also says that the sailors have a curious dread of the place. For the reader, the places is mysterious. We can say that curiosity fills the reader's mind as well. 

Second, when Rainsford finds himself on the island, he meets general Zaroff and Ivan, two men who are also shrouded in suspense.  Who are they?  What are they doing here?

Third, during the hunt, when Rainsford is hunted, there is great suspense. Will he die? Will he win? What will happen?  As you can see the whole story is filled with suspense.  It is what drives the plot and action of the story.