The creator of the Like A Dragon series, formerly known as Yakuza, believes that the era of massive game releases may be coming to an end. Toshihiro Nagoshi, who left Sega three years ago to start his own studio, is currently working on a new project with NetEase Games. In a recent interview with Famitsu, Nagoshi expressed his views on the overwhelming number of games being released, both domestically and internationally. He mentioned that the sheer volume of games available makes it impossible for ordinary gamers to keep up with them all.
Nagoshi also discussed the issue of game size, suggesting that the focus on the scale of a game may no longer be as important as it once was. While many games boast about the size of their maps and the length of their scripts, Nagoshi is taking a different approach with his upcoming project. He mentioned that the initial map they created for the game was too large, and they are now working on reducing its size to find the right balance for gameplay.
In an industry where the length of a game is often used to justify its price, Nagoshi’s decision to prioritize quality over quantity is a refreshing change. Instead of padding the game with unnecessary content to make it longer, he is focusing on creating a meaningful and enjoyable experience for players. This shift in perspective could have a significant impact on the future of game development.
While Nagoshi’s previous game, Yakuza: Like a Dragon, offered players an average of 45 hours of gameplay, his new project is expected to provide a similarly immersive experience. By reevaluating the importance of game size and focusing on creating a well-crafted and engaging game, Nagoshi is paving the way for a new era in game development.
As gamers continue to navigate the ever-growing landscape of video games, Nagoshi’s approach serves as a reminder that bigger doesn’t always mean better. By prioritizing the quality of the gameplay experience, developers can create more meaningful and enjoyable games that resonate with players on a deeper level. Nagoshi’s upcoming project with NetEase Games will undoubtedly be one to watch, as it sets a new standard for game development in the industry.