Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Soul Sacrifice review: Escapism encapsulated]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/soul-sacrifice-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/soul-sacrifice-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/soul-sacrifice-review/#comments Soul Sacrifice is a steady ascent to superiority over your captor, a mad sorcerer named Magusar. You can provoke and challenge him from within your fetid cage at any time, but ultimate victory requires toil, repetition and mastery of the same magic that imprisons you. You'll have to play the game to get out, which makes you wonder what the real trap is.

Freedom through power is your goal in the game's fiction and function, with progression framed in a living, speaking journal covered by a contorted face. The cheeky diary, named Librom, recalls the inner turmoil and exploits of Magusar's former partner, from whom you acquire magic and memories packaged as short, perfect-for-portable quests. Discovering the author's identity and exploits is an intriguing, incremental accompaniment to your own gestation as a powerful conjurer.

Soul Sacrifice is a game you play more for the beach than for the sand. Like other sagas that spin around the aggressive acquisition of beastie bits, there is less reward in the act of fighting than the result - and in the case of bigger battles, "epicness" is often conflated with "duration." Soul Sacrifice has no pretense of exploration or towns, just a distilled drip-feed of enclosed arenas and creature extermination that enables new spells, augmented magical prowess or a greater life expectancy for the next challenge.

Gallery: Soul Sacrifice

Continue reading Soul Sacrifice review: Escapism encapsulated

JoystiqSoul Sacrifice review: Escapism encapsulated originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comceptkeiji-inafuneplaystationplaystation-vitarpgsceasoul-sacrificevitaWed, 01 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Soul Sacrifice sequel already pitched to Sony, says Inafune]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/soul-sacrifice-sequel-already-pitched-to-sony-says-inafune/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/soul-sacrifice-sequel-already-pitched-to-sony-says-inafune/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/soul-sacrifice-sequel-already-pitched-to-sony-says-inafune/#comments Talks of a Soul Sacrifice sequel are already "ongoing" between Sony and Comcept's Keiji Inafune, just a month after the action-RPG hit Japan. In an interview with IGN, Inafune said he'd love to make the follow-up and "drive Vita sales even more."

"Soul Sacrifice is something I specifically designed for Vita using [the] hardware's specific features," Inafune told IGN. "To drive Vita sales even more, I have an idea for a Soul Sacrifice sequel. I'm actually approaching [Sony Computer Entertainment] regarding this project."

"Let's say the talks are ongoing and I'd love to make it happen," he added.

The likelihood of a sequel can only be boosted by SCE Worldwide Studios president Shuhei Yoshida retweeting IGN's story earlier this morning.

According to IGN, Soul Sacrifice shifted 150,000 units at retail since being released in Japan on March 7 - that figure excludes digital sales. Of course, Japan is always a bit fond of a monster hunt, so it'll be interesting to see how the Vita game does in the west - and we should find out soon enough. Soul Sacrifice comes out next week in North America and Europe, on April 30 and May 3 respectively.

JoystiqSoul Sacrifice sequel already pitched to Sony, says Inafune originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comceptKeiji-Inafuneplaystationplaystation-vitaSony-Computer-Entertainmentsoul-sacrificesoul-sacrifice-2vitaFri, 26 Apr 2013 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Live and love as Keiji Inafune's niece in Sweet Fuse: By Your Side]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/18/live-and-love-as-keiji-inafunes-niece-in-sweet-fuse-by-your-si/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/18/live-and-love-as-keiji-inafunes-niece-in-sweet-fuse-by-your-si/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/18/live-and-love-as-keiji-inafunes-niece-in-sweet-fuse-by-your-si/#comments Live and love as Keiji Inafune's niece in Sweet Fuse By Your Side You are the fictional niece of game designer Keiji Inafune, visiting his new theme park for the first time. However, the terrorist Count Hogstein has invaded the park and kidnapped the staff on that very day. There's nothing for you to do but take part in Hogstein's twisted games, in an attempt to save Inafune and, perhaps, find love among the other participants.

This is possibly one of the best premises for a game ever, and definitely the best premise for an otome game, interesting enough for us to be curious despite the Idea Factory developer credit.

Aksys Games is bringing this unique romantic adventure, Sweet Fuse: At Your Side, to PSP in North America this summer.

Gallery: Sweet Fuse: By Your Side (PSP)

Continue reading Live and love as Keiji Inafune's niece in Sweet Fuse: By Your Side

JoystiqLive and love as Keiji Inafune's niece in Sweet Fuse: By Your Side originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Feb 2013 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aksys-gameskeiji-inafuneotomeplaystationplaystation-vitapspsonysweet-fusesweet-fuse-by-your-sidevitaMon, 18 Feb 2013 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Inafune's face is from space in Hyperdimension Neptunia Victory]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/01/inafunes-face-is-from-space-in-hyperdimension-neptunia-victory/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/01/inafunes-face-is-from-space-in-hyperdimension-neptunia-victory/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/01/inafunes-face-is-from-space-in-hyperdimension-neptunia-victory/#comments Inafune's face is in space in Hyperdimension Neptunia VictoryNo longer content to be a mere weapon, Comcept founder Keiji Inafune becomes a gigantic spaceship in Hyperdimension Neptunia Victory, out March 12. We wonder if, in turn, you'll be able to summon anime girls modeled after game consoles in Soul Sacrifice.

Continue reading Inafune's face is from space in Hyperdimension Neptunia Victory

JoystiqInafune's face is from space in Hyperdimension Neptunia Victory originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Feb 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hyperdimension-neptunia-victoryKeiji-Inafuneplaystationps3Fri, 01 Feb 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Soul Sacrifice being given up to NA April 30, EU May 1]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/soul-sacrifice-being-given-up-to-na-april-30-eu-may-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/soul-sacrifice-being-given-up-to-na-april-30-eu-may-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/soul-sacrifice-being-given-up-to-na-april-30-eu-may-1/#comments Soul Sacrifice given up to NA April 30, EU May 1Keiji Inafune's Comcept is relinquishing Vita action-RPG Soul Sacrifice to North America on April 30, and to Europe the day after on May 1. It'll be in both stores and on PSN on its day of release. The game received its Japanese release date of March 7 last month.

Both regions get the same pre-order bonuses, such as the two character costumes and three magical aids for battle. Those aids are the Spirits' Flamepike, which spears a fiery five-hit combo attack, the Spirits' Blightstone, which stirs up a poisonous explosion, and Spirits' Fulgurwood, which can both track enemies and cast a thunder spell.

The most curious bonus is that of Japanese voice-overs. It's always great to have the option, but tying it to pre-orders is certainly unusual. If you're not gonna sacrifice your dosh for the pre-order, take note that the voice-over pack will be sold separately.

Gallery: Soul Sacrifice

JoystiqSoul Sacrifice being given up to NA April 30, EU May 1 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Jan 2013 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comceptkeiji-inafuneplaystationplaystation-vitarelease-dateSCEASCEESony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaSony-Computer-Entertainment-Europesoul-sacrificevitaTue, 29 Jan 2013 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Soul Sacrifice dev reveals co-op Ghost Mode, Leviathan monster]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/soul-sacrifice-dev-reveals-co-op-ghost-mode-leviathan-monster/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/soul-sacrifice-dev-reveals-co-op-ghost-mode-leviathan-monster/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/soul-sacrifice-dev-reveals-co-op-ghost-mode-leviathan-monster/#comments Soul Sacrifice dev reveals coop's Ghost Mode, Leviathan monsterVita action-RPG Soul Sacrifice has a ghostly co-op feature which lets you play on with your friends even after you're dead. Keiji Inafune, founder of developer Comcept, detailed this week how 'Ghost Mode' lets you help your party post-mortem, albeit as a phantom.

In ghost form you have both your allies and enemies' status info to hand, and are able to strengthen party members and weaken enemies via the Vita's touchscreen. You're a bit like your party's guiding spirit, except presumably covered in a white blanket with eye holes cut out. Either way, it sounds like an intriguing way to keep players involved after death.

Inafune also went into the lore of a Soul Sacrifice monster called Leviathan, the beastie pictured above. Apparently Leviathan's origins relate to a tormented prince, and his wish to claim the throne by having his twin brother killed by a tortured pet crocodile. This is just one of the reasons we advise caution in choosing a crocodile for a pet.

Soul Sacrifice hits Japan on March 7, 2013. North American and European releases are confirmed, but publisher Sony Computer Entertainment hasn't disclosed their timeframes.

JoystiqSoul Sacrifice dev reveals co-op Ghost Mode, Leviathan monster originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Dec 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comceptkeiji-inafuneplaystationplaystation-vitasoul-sacrificevitaTue, 04 Dec 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Soul Sacrifice out in Japan Mar. 7, 2013, offered in Vita bundle]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/03/soul-sacrifice-releases-in-japan-mar-7-2013-offered-in-vita-b/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/03/soul-sacrifice-releases-in-japan-mar-7-2013-offered-in-vita-b/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/03/soul-sacrifice-releases-in-japan-mar-7-2013-offered-in-vita-b/#comments Soul Sacrifice releases in Japan Mar 7, 2013, offered in Vita bundleKeiji Inafune's Comcept surrenders Soul Sacrifice to Japanese gamers on March 7, 2013. The dark fantasy action-RPG also gets a Premium handheld bundle in Japan, featuring a snappy 'Cosmic Red' Vita. Also included are matching earphones, a 4GB memory card, and a title-sporting pouch, strap, and cloth. The bundle's priced at ¥29,980 ($365).

Inafune originally hoped to release Soul Sacrifice this year, but at September's Tokyo Games Show the Mega Man creator ceded that plan. Inafune said Comcept wanted to tweak the game based on feedback gathered from the exhibition.

Soul Sacrifice is confirmed as coming to North America and Europe, although publisher Sony Computer Entertainment has yet to relinquish release windows for either region.

JoystiqSoul Sacrifice out in Japan Mar. 7, 2013, offered in Vita bundle originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comceptjapankeiji-inafuneplaystationplaystation-vitarelease-datesoul-sacrificevitaMon, 03 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Summoning monsters as a plant-based wizard in Soul Sacrifice]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/02/summoning-monsters-as-a-plant-based-wizard-soul-sacrifice/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/02/summoning-monsters-as-a-plant-based-wizard-soul-sacrifice/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/02/summoning-monsters-as-a-plant-based-wizard-soul-sacrifice/#comments Soul Sacrifice, and the tale of the PlantomancerI'm still not clear what the actual name of the character I selected during my demo of Kenji Inafune's upcoming Vita game Soul Sacrifice was, nor was I able to grasp the more delicate workings of some of its deeper mechanics because the Tokyo Game Show demo I experienced was (surprise!) completely in Japanese. But I worked around it.

Though the context of the upcoming universe alluded me, the combat in Soul Sacrifice broke down language barriers ... because it spoke the universal language of kick ass.

Gallery: Soul Sacrifice

Continue reading Summoning monsters as a plant-based wizard in Soul Sacrifice

JoystiqSummoning monsters as a plant-based wizard in Soul Sacrifice originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Oct 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comcepthands-onKeiji-Inafuneplantomancyplaystationplaystation-vitaSCEASony-Computer-Entertainment-Americasoul-sacrificetgs-2012vitaTue, 02 Oct 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Keiji Inafune's favorite game is Zelda: A Link to the Past]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/26/keiji-inafunes-favorite-game-is-zelda-a-link-to-the-past/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/26/keiji-inafunes-favorite-game-is-zelda-a-link-to-the-past/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/26/keiji-inafunes-favorite-game-is-zelda-a-link-to-the-past/#comments
During the Tokyo Game Show this year, we asked some of Japan's biggest game industry figures what they felt is the most important game to them (outside of games they've actually created). For Keiji Inafune, creator of the Mega Man series and the brainnnnnz behind the upcoming zombie action game, Yaiba: Ninja Gaiden Z, that fundamental game is The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past for the Super Nintendo. As important games go, we'd agree that Link to the Past is definitely on the list (and handily available on Virtual Console).

Meanwhile, Hiroshi Kawano, president of Sony Computer Entertainment Japan, picked Crash Bandicoot, which was conveniently (perhaps too conveniently) just released as a PSOne Classic for the PlayStation Vita. While it may not be the game many would have picked, it certainly has a memorable spot in PlayStation history, especially considering its developer, Naughty Dog, went on to create the phenomenal Uncharted series.

JoystiqKeiji Inafune's favorite game is Zelda: A Link to the Past originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Sep 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-link-to-the-pastcomcepthiroshi-kawanoKeiji-Inafunenintendoplaystationplaystation-vitaps3scejtgs-2012the-legend-of-zelda-a-link-to-the-pastvitawiiWed, 26 Sep 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Soul Sacrifice sacrificing souls Spring 2013]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/19/soul-sacrifice-sacrificing-souls-spring-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/19/soul-sacrifice-sacrificing-souls-spring-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/19/soul-sacrifice-sacrificing-souls-spring-2013/#comments Soul Sacrifice sacrificing souls Spring 2013Soul Sacrifice will launch itself -- and presumably a blade forged from the spine of a ruthless warrior -- into Japanese homes sometime in the spring of 2013, creator Keiji Inafune announced during Sony's pre-Tokyo Game Show press conference earlier today. No information was give regarding a North American release window.

"It's not that development has been delayed," Inafune said during his presentation, but rather that Comcept wants to implement user feedback gained from this week's Tokyo Game Show, as well as an upcoming demo. Sony Computer Entertainment has been gracious with development scheduling, says Inafune.

It makes sense when you stop and think about it, considering that spring is the time for love, and what love comes without sacrifice? Well, that may not be the best comparison since our relationships usually don't involve trading body parts and loved ones for unimaginable power. Usually.

JoystiqSoul Sacrifice sacrificing souls Spring 2013 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comceptKeiji-Inafuneplaystationplaystation-vitaSCESony-Computer-Entertainmentsoul-sacrificetgs-2012vitaWed, 19 Sep 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Inafune's Yaiba combines zombies with ninjas and mechs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/12/inafunes-yaiba-combines-zombies-with-ninjas-and-mechs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/12/inafunes-yaiba-combines-zombies-with-ninjas-and-mechs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/12/inafunes-yaiba-combines-zombies-with-ninjas-and-mechs/#comments
Comcept officially announced Keiji Inafune's zombie game Yaiba today, though it declined to offer much in the way of detail, as we still have no idea of platforms, release window, or even how the game actually works.

According to creator Keiji Inafune, it's inspired in part by fan feedback. "There are so many zombie games out there, yet people ask me for a new Inafune zombie game. I am grateful for people's respect for me as the 'zombie game creator' and to fulfill that I must answer their expectations with YAIBA."

Those expectations are being fulfilled with a concept of "zombies with action, ninjas and mechs." Get an idea of Comcept's concept in this stylish (but bloody) teaser video.

Continue reading Inafune's Yaiba combines zombies with ninjas and mechs

JoystiqInafune's Yaiba combines zombies with ninjas and mechs originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comceptkeiji-inafuneyaibaWed, 12 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Inafune's new zombie game 'Yaiba,' his Soul Sacrifice surprises for TGS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/11/inafunes-new-zombie-game-yaiba-his-soul-sacrifice-surprises/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/11/inafunes-new-zombie-game-yaiba-his-soul-sacrifice-surprises/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/11/inafunes-new-zombie-game-yaiba-his-soul-sacrifice-surprises/#comments Mega Man creator and Dead Rising producer Keiji Inafune is working on a new zombie game called Yaiba, Siliconera reports. Platforms and other details are scarce at the moment.

If you'll be joining us in Japan next week and have an affinity for things both horrifying and portable, then you may be interested to learn that Inafune will be showing off his upcoming Vita title Soul Sacrifice during the Tokyo Game Show. This will be the first time the game has been playable, by members of the press or otherwise.

Inafune also teased that a surprise announcement of some kind, unrelated to Soul Sacrifice, could be made during the show, according to Andriasang's translation of his blog post. Whether that surprise has anything to do with Inafune's recently released Android title JJ Rockets or Yaiba itself is anyone's guess, but we're keeping our fingers crossed for a rhythm 3DS game set in an unspeakable hell dimension. In three dee!

JoystiqInafune's new zombie game 'Yaiba,' his Soul Sacrifice surprises for TGS originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Sep 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ComceptKeiji-Inafuneplaystationplaystation-vitaSCEAsoul-sacrificetgs-2012vitayaibazombieTue, 11 Sep 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mega Man creator's JJ Rockets hits Android in Japan, stars US president]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/11/mega-man-creators-jj-rockets-hits-android-in-japan-stars-us-pr/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/11/mega-man-creators-jj-rockets-hits-android-in-japan-stars-us-pr/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/11/mega-man-creators-jj-rockets-hits-android-in-japan-stars-us-pr/#comments Mega Man creator's JJ Rockets hits Android in Japan, features US presidentJJ Rockets, a side-scrolling action game from Mega Man creator Keiji Inafune, comes to Android in Japan today. More importantly, as Siliconera reports, it looks brilliantly bizarre.

First off, you play as the President of the United States - probably not specifically the big O. Then you transform into what looks like a futuristic superhero version of Evel Knievel, all to save humanity from a swarm of evil mutants. Each stage has a three-minute time limit, with the stage only complete once the final boss is defeated. A promotional image from the Google Play listing suggests a diverse arsenal to choose from, while one screenshot shows a Batman-like 'Bwoom!' and 'Kaboom!!

In summary: Mega Man platforming action, US super-president, time-limits, comic book stylings, and lots of fun-looking weapons. This is why we're interested.

We reached out to Marvelous AQL, who are publishing JJ Rockets in Japan, but the company declined to provide any further comment. We do know, though, the game is also releasing on iOS at some point. As it is, we wouldn't be surprised by a Western release of another Marvelous-published Inafune game.

JoystiqMega Man creator's JJ Rockets hits Android in Japan, stars US president originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Sep 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidiosipadiphonekeiji-inafunemarvelousmega-manmobileTue, 11 Sep 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Inafune's 'Soul Sacrifice' coming to Vita in North America and Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/01/inafunes-soul-sacrifice-coming-to-vita-in-north-america-and-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/01/inafunes-soul-sacrifice-coming-to-vita-in-north-america-and-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/01/inafunes-soul-sacrifice-coming-to-vita-in-north-america-and-e/#comments Image
Western Vita owners won't be exempt from the horrific business of trading their own body parts for magic power. Sony announced plans this morning to localize Soul Sacrifice, the "dark fantasy" action game directed by Keiji Inafune that was previously exclusive to Japan gamers.

On the PlayStation Blog, Inafune described his desire to show the "reality" within a fantasy setting. "Cruelty is a reality in our world, and we have to make sacrifices and pay costs on a daily basis," Inafune said, totally bumming us out. "I wanted to blend this 'reality' theme into a fantasy world, one filled with magic, and create a new type of gaming experience that relied on the player making sacrifices in order to obtain great power."

And that's why you're able to rip your own spine out of your body and use it as a magical weapon.

JoystiqInafune's 'Soul Sacrifice' coming to Vita in North America and Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2012keiji-inafunemarvelous-aqlplaystationplaystation-vitasoul-sacrificevitaFri, 01 Jun 2012 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Inafune working with Level-5 on Guild02 [update: screens]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/inafune-working-with-level-5-on-guild02/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/inafune-working-with-level-5-on-guild02/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/inafune-working-with-level-5-on-guild02/#comments ImageGuild01 is an upcoming 3DS cart by Level-5, collecting four small games by Suda 51, Seaman's Yoot Saito, Yasumi Matsuno, and comedian Yoshiyuki Hirai. Even before the (so far Japan-only) release of this game, early Famitsu info reveals the existence of a second collection called Guild02, this time involving the outspoken and suddenly very busy Keiji Inafune.

Inafune's game translates to "Insect Tank," and puts the player in the role of a miniaturized WWII tank fighting giant insects. His game is joined by "Alone," a "suspense game" by Chunsoft visual novel writers Takemaru Abiko and Kazuya Asano, about someone who wakes up in a dark room with no memories, and "The Friday When Monsters Appear" by Kazu Ayabe, creator of the My Summer Vacation series. True to the title, monsters show up every Friday in a '60s-era town full of children who love the giant Ultraman-style heroes of the day.

Guild02 will also have some kind of connectivity with the previous collection, allowing Guild01 owners to get passwords to unlock material in Guild02. We suppose that's one advantage over releasing these games one by one on the eShop, but seriously, Level-5, release these games one by one on the eShop. That's what it's for.

Update: Famitsu has screens of all three games. Above (obviously), Insect Tank.

JoystiqInafune working with Level-5 on Guild02 [update: screens] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsguild02keiji-inafunelevel-5nintendoWed, 23 May 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Soul Sacrifice is Keiji Inafune's Vita game, features gruesome magic]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/soul-sacrifice-is-keiji-inafunes-vita-game-features-gruesome-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/soul-sacrifice-is-keiji-inafunes-vita-game-features-gruesome-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/soul-sacrifice-is-keiji-inafunes-vita-game-features-gruesome-m/#comments ImageWhile Sony's Japan Studio is the only listed name on the teaser video for Soul Sacrifice, a new Famitsu story adds some other names to the roster. Former Capcom exec, current Comcept/Intercept head, and Neptunia mk2 weapon Keiji Inafune is in charge of planning on the Vita game for his company Comcept.

That would mean Soul Sacrifice is the Vita game he semi-accidentally announced, and then attempted to unannounce, earlier this year. Inafune is working with developer Marvelous AQL, with composers Yasunori Mitsuda and Wataru Hokoyama providing music.

The game allows players to cast powerful magic spells, but requires a payment ("Sacrifice") for each. You can sacrifice objects, but the most powerful spells require you to give up parts of your character's body - in an example given, you give up an eye to summon a Gorgon. The player has been enslaved by a sorcerer, and captured in a small cell, when a demonic book appears that allows the player to experience past magical battles - which you can do with up to four players.

Head to Famitsu now to see many, many screenshots and pieces of Comcept concept art.

JoystiqSoul Sacrifice is Keiji Inafune's Vita game, features gruesome magic originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 May 2012 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Keiji-Inafunemarvelousmarvelous-aqlplaystationplaystation-vitasoul-sacrificevitaWed, 09 May 2012 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Enjoy Keiji Inafune's adorable GDC 2012 slide cartoons right here]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/enjoy-keiji-inafunes-adorable-gdc-2012-slide-cartoons-right-her/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/enjoy-keiji-inafunes-adorable-gdc-2012-slide-cartoons-right-her/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/enjoy-keiji-inafunes-adorable-gdc-2012-slide-cartoons-right-her/#comments Keiji Inafune often adds a sketch of his creations (like Mega Man) when giving autographs to fans. Inafune took to his GDC 2012 presentation slides with the same flair, offering illustrations to accompany his various points throughout a speech that focused on Japanese game development.

Continue reading Enjoy Keiji Inafune's adorable GDC 2012 slide cartoons right here

JoystiqEnjoy Keiji Inafune's adorable GDC 2012 slide cartoons right here originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 21:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomcomceptgdcgdc-2012interceptjapankeiji-inafunemega-manThu, 08 Mar 2012 21:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Keiji Inafune on why you shouldn't tease unannounced projects]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/keiji-inafune-on-why-you-shouldnt-tease-unannounced-projects/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/keiji-inafune-on-why-you-shouldnt-tease-unannounced-projects/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/keiji-inafune-on-why-you-shouldnt-tease-unannounced-projects/#comments "I don't think I mentioned anything about PlayStation Vita," Keiji Inafune told me in an interview this morning. His answer -- an outright lie -- elicited laughs from myself and his translator, both of us having attended his state of the Japanese game industry panel yesterday at GDC 2012 -- where he teased a PlayStation Vita project.

"I can say that I got in trouble from Sony," he said. Uh oh! Unsurprisingly, Inafune wouldn't budge on any more details, only adding that, "You should be able to hear something more in detail soon." That's right, folks -- even important devs like Keiji Inafune can't just walk around saying whatever they want about unannounced projects all willy nilly.

But don't fret, fans, as Inafune plans on launching his already announced Nintendo 3DS project, King of Pirates, worldwide. "For all my titles, I'm looking to do worldwide publishing. I can't say who is publishing because it could be Marvelous directly or maybe they're going to find another publisher in the US," he said. "But the plan is to do it worldwide."

JoystiqKeiji Inafune on why you shouldn't tease unannounced projects originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscomceptgdcgdc-2012interceptkeiji-inafuneking-of-piratesmarvelousmarvelous-interactivenintendoplaystationplaystation-vitasonyvitaThu, 08 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[How Resident Evil 2 helped Keiji Inafune become the indie dev he is today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/how-resident-evil-2-helped-keiji-inafune-become-the-indie-dev-he/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/how-resident-evil-2-helped-keiji-inafune-become-the-indie-dev-he/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/how-resident-evil-2-helped-keiji-inafune-become-the-indie-dev-he/#comments Back in the mid-90s, now acclaimed Japanese developer Shinji Mikami was passionately toiling away on the first game in a soon-to-be hit franchise: Resident Evil. It was to be published by Capcom, but the company had reservations about the new intellectual property -- so much so that it nearly canned the project outright. Ex-Capcom global head of production Keiji Inafune recalled his side of the story during an impassioned GDC 2012 speech yesterday.

Inafune claims he watched from the outside as Capcom's support for Resident Evil faded, and while he worked on other titles within the same company. Mikami fought for the fledgling game, eventually getting it published for Sony's PlayStation. The rest, of course, is zombie-ridden history.

When Capcom began work on a sequel, Inafune says he got himself involved in a production role. "While Mikami focused on the game, as the producer, it was my mission to sell this title to as many people around the world," he said to a room full of attendees. But with the massive success of the first RE title, Inafune's role as salesman was relegated to a cake walk. "With my previous title Mega Man Legends, it was pretty challenging to even book a round of press appointments. No one was interested in hearing about a new Mega Man title," Inafune said. "However, the scenario was completely different with RE2. Once we announced the project, the requests poured in."

Continue reading How Resident Evil 2 helped Keiji Inafune become the indie dev he is today

JoystiqHow Resident Evil 2 helped Keiji Inafune become the indie dev he is today originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomcomceptgdcgdc-2012interceptkeiji-inafunemega-manmega-man-legendsresident-evilshinji-mikamiThu, 08 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Keiji Inafune working on Vita]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/keiji-inafune-working-on-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/keiji-inafune-working-on-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/keiji-inafune-working-on-vita/#comments Keiji Inafune somewhat unintentionally let slip that he's working on a PlayStation Vita game during his "The Future of Japanese Games" talk. After speaking of work on his upcoming 3DS title, King of Pirates, as well as his company's work in social gaming, he mentioned that he's challenging himself once more with the Vita.

That's the direct approach to discussing the future of Japanese games, right? Just tell people about a Japanese game that's coming out in the future.

Inafune didn't offer specifics on the game, nor did he say which of his two companies (Intercept or Comcept) is responsible for the project. In fact, shortly after noting the existence of the project, he asked everyone to forget that he said it, alongside a big smile (not dissimilar from his visage above).

JoystiqKeiji Inafune working on Vita originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 21:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comceptgdc-2012keiji-inafuneplaystationplaystation-vitavitaWed, 07 Mar 2012 21:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Street Fighter X Tekken's Mega Man has Inafune's blessing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/street-fighter-x-tekkens-mega-man-has-inafunes-blessing/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/street-fighter-x-tekkens-mega-man-has-inafunes-blessing/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/street-fighter-x-tekkens-mega-man-has-inafunes-blessing/#comments You might be wondering why Capcom decided to go with an outlandish, embarrassing caricature of the Mega Man 1 box art Mega Man as a Street Fighter X Tekken bonus character for PS3 and Vita. According to a tweet from producer Yoshinori Ono, the decision was made with input from Capcom executive emeritus Keiji Inafune.

"I consulted with Mr.Megaman (his name is Mr.I...) about it 1 year ago," Ono said. This iteration was the "result" of that consultation. A previous Mega Man game developed under Inafune's command, the cancelled Mega Man Universe, also featured "Bad Box Art Mega Man." So maybe Inafune just thinks it's really funny.

Now, as for why Mega Man and Pac-Man are Sony-exclusive characters despite not having anything to do with Sony or the PlayStation platforms ... we aren't sure who was consulted on that decision.

[Thanks, Alex!]

JoystiqStreet Fighter X Tekken's Mega Man has Inafune's blessing originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>keiji-inafunemega-manplaystationplaystation-vitaps3street-fighter-x-tekkenvitayoshinori-onoFri, 27 Jan 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sid Meier, Keiji Inafune and Riot Games folks added to GDC seminar list]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/sid-meier-keiji-inafune-and-riot-games-folks-added-to-gdc-semin/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/sid-meier-keiji-inafune-and-riot-games-folks-added-to-gdc-semin/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/sid-meier-keiji-inafune-and-riot-games-folks-added-to-gdc-semin/#comments Sad your favorite game designer isn't getting his or her deserved time in the spotlight? Well dry those eyes, friend! It's gonna be hard to hold onto that grudge because today industry legends Sid Meier and Keiji Inafune have both been added to the GDC talk docket, as well as League of Legends proprietors, Riot Games. But hey, if you're not going to GDC, feel free to keep crying while you read the rest of this post.

Meier's talk, entitled "Interesting Decisions," will revolve around his viewpoint of gameplay as "a series of interesting decisions" and how developers can recognize and add these kinds of decisions, ultimately providing the player with a more fulfilling experience. Maybe he'll also talk a bit how that philosophy will play into XCOM: Enemy Unknown?

Inafune will aim to analyze the current state of the Japanese game industry in his sixty-minute talk, "The Future of Japanese Games." Along with his unnamed cohorts, he'll delve into the current problems facing the region and analyze the past success of Japanese game development. We imagine he'll also probably suffer through a lot of questions about Mega Man.

Finally, Riot Games offers a postmortem on its successful Dominion expansion for its runaway hit, League of Legends. Lead producer Travis George will offer insight into the expansion's genesis, all the way through production and launch.

JoystiqSid Meier, Keiji Inafune and Riot Games folks added to GDC seminar list originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gdc-2012keiji-inafuneleague-of-legendsmicrosoftmobilepcplaystationps3sid-meierxboxxcom-enemy-unknownTue, 24 Jan 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Inafune's 'The Island of Dr. Momo' launches via GREE]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/26/inafunes-the-island-of-dr-momo-launches-via-gree/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/26/inafunes-the-island-of-dr-momo-launches-via-gree/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/26/inafunes-the-island-of-dr-momo-launches-via-gree/#comments The first game from Keiji Inafune's 'Comcept' studio -- the first Inafune game since Capcom, in other words -- is now available in Japan, and it's pretty dang cute. 'The Island of Dr. Momo' is a social game for smartphones, published by gigantic mobile game company GREE. It was released on Android yesterday with an iOS version incoming.

In this (we'll warn you again: it's cute) game, you collect eggs from different creatures, and "fuse" them in an attempt to create the cutest "Kawaiimon" animal in the world. You can trade the results with friends to increase your menagerie, or get new Kawaiimon out of a capsule machine.

Inafune's other game is also pretty adorable: Intercept's Kaio: King of Pirates will be out on 3DS sometime next year.

JoystiqInafune's 'The Island of Dr. Momo' launches via GREE originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidcomceptgreeiosiphonejapanKeiji-Inafunemobilerelease-datethe-island-of-dr-momoMon, 26 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Inafune cheers on Mega Man Legends 3 fan campaign]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/inafune-cheers-on-mega-man-legends-3-fan-campaign/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/inafune-cheers-on-mega-man-legends-3-fan-campaign/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/inafune-cheers-on-mega-man-legends-3-fan-campaign/#comments Keiji Inafune, the Inafking (as he's known in credit sequences for his old games) descended from his Inafthrone recently to offer his approval of the grassroots "100,000 Strong for Bringing Back Mega Man Legends 3" community, in a post on his blog.

"All these fans with such strong emotions really do have an intense passion for the game," Inafune said. "I am really glad to hear this." Inafune said he felt the "warmth" of fans' passion for the canceled Mega Man Legends 3 Project, and said he would continue cheering for his "juniors" to bring it back.

Inafune offered an interesting psychological explanation for the tenacity of Mega Man fans: "While playing classic [Mega Man], for a while I found it too difficult and wanted to give up," the former Capcom exec said. "But even then, I would desperately continue to clear the stage. Nobody can forget the feeling of finally beating Wilys stage after all that work, defeating the UFO and watching the ending." The obstacle in front of fans now -- the "Dr. Wily" -- is Capcom.

[Thanks, Logan!]

JoystiqInafune cheers on Mega Man Legends 3 fan campaign originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscapcomkeiji-inafunemega-man-legends-3mega-man-legends-3-projectnintendoThu, 20 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Keiji Inafune reveals 'King of Pirates,' heading to 3DS in 2012]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/keiji-inafune-reveals-king-of-pirates-heading-to-3ds-in-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/keiji-inafune-reveals-king-of-pirates-heading-to-3ds-in-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/keiji-inafune-reveals-king-of-pirates-heading-to-3ds-in-2012/#comments
Ex-Capcom head of production, Keiji Inafune, has yet another pot on the stove. His company, Intercept, announced its next game last night: "King of Pirates" for the Nintendo 3DS, which brings Inafune back into console development (as previously hinted). The game is apparently set on a massive ocean, "where heroes fight for ambition, justice, and their lives," according to a note from Inafune. 4Gamer reports that the game is planned as a trilogy, and features some form of multiplayer.

The teaser trailer, however, doesn't go very far in explaining what the game is actually about, though it seems to indicate some form of ship battle game -- the official website describes it as "pirate action adventure." The trailer does let slip some other information, however, such as who's publishing the game, namely Marvelous AQL, makers of the Harvest Moon series.

Currently, King of Pirates is only slated for launch in Japan, though we'd be surprised if it didn't end up in other territories eventually. In fact, according to Inafune's own development philosophy, it's almost guaranteed to arrive elsewhere.

Gallery: KAIO - King of Pirates

JoystiqKeiji Inafune reveals 'King of Pirates,' heading to 3DS in 2012 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsinterceptkaio-king-of-pirateskeiji-inafuneking-of-piratesmarvelousmarvelous-aqlmarvelous-interactivenintendorelease-dateWed, 05 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Inafune's next game was ready to show at TGS, but he wasn't]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/inafunes-next-game-was-ready-to-show-at-tgs-but-he-wasnt/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/inafunes-next-game-was-ready-to-show-at-tgs-but-he-wasnt/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/inafunes-next-game-was-ready-to-show-at-tgs-but-he-wasnt/#comments Ex-Capcom head of production Keiji Inafune has announced a couple of social titles in development at his company Comcept, and some form of involvement in a female dating sim for PSP, but he's yet to speak about anything in the console realm from his other company, Intercept.

He had plans to show off his first console title since leaving Capcom in late 2010 at this year's Tokyo Game Show. So, what happened? "We decided not to," he told me this past weekend. "As for titles which aren't social games," he noted, it would be "very, very soon." He specifically pointed out that his company already had work ready to show, but due to the crowded space, he decided against it.

"By the time you guys get back to North America, we might have something releasing," he said. When I told him we'd be flying back the following Monday, September 19, he just laughed and added, "That's a bit too soon, it's going to be a little longer."

JoystiqInafune's next game was ready to show at TGS, but he wasn't originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comceptinterceptkeiji-inafunetgstgs-2011tokyo-game-showtokyo-game-show-2011Tue, 20 Sep 2011 20:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Inafune asked to keep working on canned Mega Man projects post-Capcom; Capcom declined]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/inafune-asked-to-keep-working-on-canned-mega-man-projects-post-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/inafune-asked-to-keep-working-on-canned-mega-man-projects-post-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/inafune-asked-to-keep-working-on-canned-mega-man-projects-post-c/#comments When Mega Man co-creator and former head of production at Capcom Keiji Inafune vacated his long-held position late last year, it was unclear what would happen with the two projects he had just fought to get going -- a long-awaited sequel in the Mega Man Legends series and an ambitious XBLA/PSN Mega Man mashup title. Despite a brief period of support from his former employer, the two games were eventually canceled. Inafune, however, was still fighting for the games after his employment ended. "I really wanted to finish those two projects, especially Legends," Inafune told me in an interview this past weekend at the Tokyo Game Show.

"It's really up to Capcom to let me do it or not, and for the moment I don't think they're gonna let me do it," he resignedly added. Apparently after leaving his position at his former employer, he requested to continue working on the project in some capacity as a contractor. Cacpom, however, wasn't interested in that idea. But rather than directly blame Capcom for canceling the two projects -- he's not into pointing fingers, as we already know -- Inafune spoke to his struggle even getting them going.

Continue reading Inafune asked to keep working on canned Mega Man projects post-Capcom; Capcom declined

JoystiqInafune asked to keep working on canned Mega Man projects post-Capcom; Capcom declined originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscapcomkeiji-inafunemega-man-legends-3mega-man-legends-3-projectmega-man-universemicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3tgstgs-2011tokyo-game-showtokyo-game-show-2011xboxTue, 20 Sep 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Let's play the blame game: Inafune on what went wrong with Capcom's original IP push]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/lets-play-the-blame-game-inafune-on-what-went-wrong-with-capco/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/lets-play-the-blame-game-inafune-on-what-went-wrong-with-capco/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/lets-play-the-blame-game-inafune-on-what-went-wrong-with-capco/#comments In the latter half of 2009 and early 2010, Capcom released two major retail games in collaboration with prominent Western devs: Crimson Skies dev Airtight Games created Dark Void, and gun-for-hire Grin rebooted Bionic Commando. Those two games, however, were prominent sales flops. One even contributed to the eventual closure of Swedish dev Grin.

For its part, Capcom promptly returned to its tried and true franchises, with a lineup today featuring many more sequels than back in 2009. At the time, Mega Man co-creator Keiji Inafune was overseeing production on Capcom's retail titles, and when I spoke with him this past week at the Tokyo Game Show, I wanted to know what went wrong. Beyond sales, neither game was particularly loved by critics, especially Dark Void.

"[It's] very, very simple: The publisher was Japanese and the developer was foreign. Even inside Japan, when you work in two different companies, they always blame each other for any small mistakes, so that's pretty much what happened in those two games -- blaming each other," Inafune explained. He went on to compare those development experiences with that of Dead Rising -- a game that has since become a major franchise for Capcom, not to mention a commercial success.

Continue reading Let's play the blame game: Inafune on what went wrong with Capcom's original IP push

JoystiqLet's play the blame game: Inafune on what went wrong with Capcom's original IP push originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airtightairtight-gamesbionic-commandoDark-Voidgrinkeiji-inafunemicrosoftpcplaystationps3tgstgs-2011tokyo-game-showtokyo-game-show-2011xboxMon, 19 Sep 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Inafune envisions a future where portable gaming consoles and Smartphones coexist]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/17/inafune-invisions-a-future-where-portable-gaming-consoles-and-sm/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/17/inafune-invisions-a-future-where-portable-gaming-consoles-and-sm/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/17/inafune-invisions-a-future-where-portable-gaming-consoles-and-sm/#comments When Nintendo president Satoru Iwata delivered the keynote back in March at this year's Game Developer's Conference in San Francisco, he spoke of the "commoditization" of gaming, and the resultant devaluing of games. But given his position as head of a company leading the charge in the dedicated gaming portable market, it was difficult to see past his highly vested interests in this stance. To put it more bluntly, Iwata is a man who relies on people buying his portable console's games for $30 to $40, and thusly his ideas on the subject are tainted by his own vested interests.

But when Mega Man co-creator and ex-Capcom head of production Keiji Inafune feels similarly, we can't help but take note. I asked him during an interview this week at the Tokyo Game Show how he felt about Mr. Iwata's keynote, and if the Nintendo 3DS -- as well as the PlayStation Vita -- stand a chance against the rise of the Smartphone.

"I think it's very similar between cell phone cameras and professional digital cameras [DSLRs]. You don't use a Smartphone camera for an interview, and you don't use a really professional camera to take some small pictures when you're going to work," he told me, drawing a comparison between the DSLR my colleague was holding and the iPhone 4 I was recording the interview with. "I think that's the same thing that happens with game consoles as well," he continued. "If you want to play a good game, you get a PS3 or Xbox or that kind of thing. You don't stay on your iPhone or on a Smartphone game for three or five hours, nobody would do that. So I think the needs difference is happening here."

Continue reading Inafune envisions a future where portable gaming consoles and Smartphones coexist

JoystiqInafune envisions a future where portable gaming consoles and Smartphones coexist originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 17 Sep 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comceptinterceptkeiji-inafunemicrosoftplaystationps3tgstgs-2011tokyo-game-showtokyo-game-show-2011xboxSat, 17 Sep 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Inafune: 'Messed up' working relationship led to Bionic Commando's Wifearm]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/17/inafune-messed-up-working-relationship-led-to-bionic-commando/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/17/inafune-messed-up-working-relationship-led-to-bionic-commando/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/17/inafune-messed-up-working-relationship-led-to-bionic-commando/#comments "At the end of developing Bionic Commando, things got really messed up between the two companies," Mega Man creator and former global head of production at Capcom Keiji Inafune told me in an interview this week. Sitting in a quiet corner of Tokyo Game Show's business area, Inafune was addressing the retail version of BC developed by the now shuttered studio Grin -- a game that helped nail the coffin shut on the Swedish dev house, and scared Capcom off of its big third-party push. In case you weren't aware, at the end of BC's main campaign, it's revealed that the protagonist's bionic arm is, at least partially, made from his dead wife. Seriously.

"I don't even know what happened there," Inafune lamented. The project was apparently rife with development issues, which Inafune exemplified with a phrase that represented the attitude Grin and Capcom had for each other at the time: "Whatever, do what you want, I don't care."

Though he couldn't say what specifically happened to result in such a bizarre game ending, Inafune explained that the issue of foreign companies working with Japanese ones was at the heart of the situation. "At the beginning, things are very, very good between the two companies. Things get kind of weird from the middle, and it gets really bad at the end -- especially for the Japanese companies," he said of the development process.

"They should be more flexible about things," Inafune added, no doubt part of his decision to leave his long-time employer late last year. "If you don't do that, everything will become messed up from the middle. And that's the most important part. Not the beginning, but in the middle and finishing the game."

JoystiqInafune: 'Messed up' working relationship led to Bionic Commando's Wifearm originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 17 Sep 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bionic-Commandocapcomgrinkeiji-inafunemicrosoftpcplaystationps3tgstgs-2011tokyo-game-showtokyo-game-show-2011wife-armwifearmedxboxSat, 17 Sep 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Inafune, Suda 51 signed for mobile development]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/25/inafune-suda-51-signed-for-mobile-development/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/25/inafune-suda-51-signed-for-mobile-development/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/25/inafune-suda-51-signed-for-mobile-development/#comments DeNA's popular Japanese mobile gaming platform, Mobage, is getting a major boost from some of the nation's leading gaming industry figures. During a press conference held earlier today (as translated by Andriasang), DeNA revealed that five famed producers will develop games for the platform, including Keiji Inafune, who's creating a game titled J.J. Rockets with his new studio Comcept, and Suda 51, who will make a new installment in the No More Heroes franchise.

Other contributors include Marvelous Entertainment's Yoshifumi Hashimoto, who is working on a Harvest Moon mobile title, former Sonic Team lead Yuji Naka, who will develop an adventure game with his new studio Prope, and Crafts & Meister co-founder Noritaka Funamizu. Sounds like a pretty great lineup, though we wish the five would also collaborate on a single project. The idea of a No More Heroes farming simulator is, well, the best idea.

JoystiqInafune, Suda 51 signed for mobile development originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Jul 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>denaharvest-moonjapanjj-rocketskeiji-inafunemobagemobileNo-More-Heroesnoritaka-funamizuyoshifumi-hashimotoyuji-nakaMon, 25 Jul 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Keiji Inafune unveils Comcept's first game: The Island of Dr. Momo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/keiji-inafune-unveils-comcepts-first-the-island-of-dr-momo/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/keiji-inafune-unveils-comcepts-first-the-island-of-dr-momo/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/keiji-inafune-unveils-comcepts-first-the-island-of-dr-momo/#comments While Capcom is canceling every Keiji Inafune-originated project that isn't about Frank West, Inafune is working on new games of his own. The first game out of Inafune's company Comcept is The Island of Dr. Momo, an iOS/Android game for Japan's GREE social gaming service, to be released this fall. It will be free to play, with the option to buy in-game items.

If that title reminds you of a certain other work, it's no accident. In Dr. Momo, you play a mad scientist who combines animals in order to make the cutest possible creatures. Finally, Keiji Inafune is here to give vivisection some positive spin!

JoystiqKeiji Inafune unveils Comcept's first game: The Island of Dr. Momo originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jul 2011 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comceptgreejapankeiji-inafunemobilethe-island-of-dr-momoFri, 22 Jul 2011 11:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Keiji Inafune's sights are on China, still down on Japanese game industry]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/keiji-inafunes-sights-are-on-china-still-down-on-japanese-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/keiji-inafunes-sights-are-on-china-still-down-on-japanese-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/keiji-inafunes-sights-are-on-china-still-down-on-japanese-game/#comments At the tail end of a 1400-word diatribe detailing the myriad failures of the Japanese game industry, former Capcom all-star Keiji Inafune (who else?) gave us the first big hint about what he's going to be working on next. We know about his two new companies -- the multi-faceted Comcept and the game development house Intercept -- but what has been less clear is what kind of games he's going to make. As the creator of games like Mega Man and Dead Rising, Inafune is clearly able to appeal to Western tastes, so it's a bit surprising that he's not necessarily courting Western audiences.

We suppose it makes sense; for all this praise of Western game development, Inafune feels like competing there would be too difficult with a new company. "It may be too late - or too hard - to tackle the US market at this point," he writes. So instead of tackling the top spot, Inafune is looking towards the future. What's next? "The next big market is China. There I see many opportunities. My sights are on Asia," he concludes, wrapping up his essay.

Maybe this is selfish of us, but you've got to look out for number one, right? Here's the thing: We don't live in China, so we don't see any way to read this without acknowledging that Inafune won't be making games for us anymore. Is this because we said mean things about Lost Planet 2?

JoystiqKeiji Inafune's sights are on China, still down on Japanese game industry originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Jun 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asiabusinesschinacomceptinterceptJapanKeiji-InafuneThu, 30 Jun 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Purported new Inafune RPG is just Neptunia]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/30/psa-purported-new-inafune-rpg-is-just-neptunia/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/30/psa-purported-new-inafune-rpg-is-just-neptunia/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/30/psa-purported-new-inafune-rpg-is-just-neptunia/#comments Last week, a report from business journal Bloomberg featured an interview with Mega Man creator/ex-Capcom creative lead Keiji Inafune, covering a variety of topics. As has become par for the course since Inafune left the Japanese publishing giant, he spoke to the divide between creative and management in game development, and how he believes it can be amended. He also spoke to the challenges he faced at his old employer, echoing sentiments from earlier this month.

And while all of that is certainly interesting, one particular line in the piece stood out to our news-hungry eyes: "Inafune said he plans to release a social game title for Japanese market as early as this month, and a role-playing title for Sony Corp.'s PlayStation 3 in August." We knew about the social game, but a role-playing game for PS3, you say?

As it turns out, the game in question isn't one that Inafune's studio, Comcept, is developing, but rather a game that Inafune himself is starring in. You guessed it: Hyperdimension Neptunia mk-II. You know, the game where Inafune's a weapon? That game.

We reached out to the folks at Bloomberg, who clarified that, yes, the game in question isn't an unannounced PlayStation 3 RPG, as much as it is an already announced, Compile Heart-developed Japan-only RPG with Inafune as a laser-vomiting special weapon. On the one hand, we're a bit disappointed that Inafune's not crafting a secret PS3 RPG, but on the other hand we got to use that amazing header image again. You win some, you lose some.

JoystiqPSA: Purported new Inafune RPG is just Neptunia originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 May 2011 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comceptcompile-heartdebunkhyperdimension-neptunia-mk-iijapankeiji-inafuneplaystationps3psaMon, 30 May 2011 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Keiji Inafune shooting a laser out of his mouth, obviously]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/17/keiji-inafune-shooting-a-laser-out-of-his-mouth-obviously/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/17/keiji-inafune-shooting-a-laser-out-of-his-mouth-obviously/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/17/keiji-inafune-shooting-a-laser-out-of-his-mouth-obviously/#comments Some things you just have to see to believe. For instance, here's Mega Man creator Keiji Inafune's head totally vomiting a laser, as seen in the upcoming PS3 RPG Hyperdimension Neptunia mk-II.

Continue reading Keiji Inafune shooting a laser out of his mouth, obviously

JoystiqKeiji Inafune shooting a laser out of his mouth, obviously originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 May 2011 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hyperdimension-neptunia-mk-iijapankeiji-inafuneplaystationps3Tue, 17 May 2011 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Inafune on defeating Capcom's sequel-heavy budgeting]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/09/inafune-on-defeating-capcoms-sequel-heavy-budgeting/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/09/inafune-on-defeating-capcoms-sequel-heavy-budgeting/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/09/inafune-on-defeating-capcoms-sequel-heavy-budgeting/#comments In one anecdote, former Capcom exec Keiji Inafune illustrates how he got so high up in the company and the kind of behavior that likely led to his hasty exit. During a presentation at Kyoto's Ritsumeikan University, the Neptunia Mk-II weapon dished on the corporate culture at Capcom, and how he gamed it to get Lost Planet and Dead Rising made.

Before those games, he said, Capcom had a rule requiring 70-80 percent of the games produced at the company to be sequels, and the management rejected pitches for new titles even beyond that proportion. Inafune started up two new projects, Lost Planet and Dead Rising, and just kept them going even after the prototypes were rejected.

Eventually, he exceeded the budget for Lost Planet's prototype by 400%, figuring that Capcom wouldn't cancel it if the game was half done. The strategy worked: both titles made it to retail, and started franchises that have sold over four million units each.

Inafune was already well known for a successful act of guerrilla game-making. After Mega Man, his team was famously only allowed to develop Mega Man 2 if they did so on their own time, without affecting the schedules of other projects.

JoystiqInafune on defeating Capcom's sequel-heavy budgeting originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 May 2011 19:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomdead-risingdskeiji-inafunelost-planetLost-Planet-Extreme-Conditionmicrosoftmobilenintendopcplaystationps3xboxMon, 09 May 2011 19:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Keiji Inafune is shooting lasers out of his face in an RPG]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/keiji-inafune-is-shooting-lasers-out-of-his-face-in-an-rpg/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/keiji-inafune-is-shooting-lasers-out-of-his-face-in-an-rpg/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/keiji-inafune-is-shooting-lasers-out-of-his-face-in-an-rpg/#comments Well, it's official: Keiji Inafune has the best life ever. According to this week's issue of Dengeki PlayStation (as translated by Andriasang), the former Capcom head will appear in Idea Factory's upcoming PS3 RPG Hyperdimension Neptunia mk-II -- a bizarre outcome of an even more bizarre marketing partnership between Inafune and the game's publisher, Compile Heart. The real magic comes from the descriptions of his character's special abilities, such as the "Donnahandanda Nova," in which Inafune opens up his mouth, and vomits out an assumedly potent laser beam.

We can't decide what's more wonderful: The aforementioned power, or "Creator Sword Inafune," in which Inafune wields an actual photograph of himself, much like one would wield a sword. Nope! Wait, forget what we said. That's obviously the most wonderful thing we've ever heard.

JoystiqKeiji Inafune is shooting lasers out of his face in an RPG originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomhyperdimension-neptuniahyperdimension-neptunia-mk-iiidea-factorykeiji-inafuneplaystationps3rpgTue, 26 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Keiji Inafune starts two game companies]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/01/keiji-inafune-starts-two-game-companies/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/01/keiji-inafune-starts-two-game-companies/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/01/keiji-inafune-starts-two-game-companies/#comments Looks like Keiji Inafune has a plan to give the Japanese game industry a boost -- and it involves rebuilding the whole thing himself. The former Capcom exec, known as the creator of Mega Man and Clockland Rescue, has started two new companies, Comcept and Intercept, in two separate offices.

Comcept, a name that has come up in relation to Inafune before, is focused on creating and distributing a variety of entertainment media, including consumer, online and mobile games, tie-in goods, books, movies, and even events. Intercept, on the other hand, is all about game development, following three key tenets (as translated by Andriasang): "Originality -- Cannot be copied by others"; "Gravity -- Has the power to pull people in"; and "Beyond the Age -- Things that cross era." The companies have so far raised 10 million yen ($119,490) in capital each.

JoystiqKeiji Inafune starts two game companies originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Apr 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comceptinterceptjapankeiji-inafuneFri, 01 Apr 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mega Man Universe canceled]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/mega-man-universe-canceled/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/mega-man-universe-canceled/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/mega-man-universe-canceled/#comments Capcom has posted an apology and notice of cancelation on the official Japanese website for Mega Man Universe, an odd DIY Mega Man game that was scheduled to launch on Xbox Live Arcade and PlayStation Network later this year. The retro-styled platformer was a cheeky amalgam of remade Mega Man 2 levels, customizable characters (including the crooked caricature from the North American Mega Man 1 box art) and user-created levels.

According to Capcom's notice, the decision to extinguish Mega Man Universe was given impetus by "various circumstances." Those may involve the departure of Mega Man creator and Universe conceptual lead Keiji Inafune, who left Capcom in October 2010. We've requested further comment from Capcom.

JoystiqMega Man Universe canceled originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canceledcapcomkeiji-inafuneMega-Man-Universemicrosoftplaystationps3psnxblaxboxThu, 31 Mar 2011 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Keiji Inafune's new company named 'Comcept']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/keiji-inafunes-new-company-named-comcept/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/keiji-inafunes-new-company-named-comcept/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/keiji-inafunes-new-company-named-comcept/#comments In a chance encounter with ex-Capcom creative director Keiji Inafune, alleged Japanese securities analyst Koji Ichi reportedly received a business card from Inafune denoting his new company, "Comcept" (likely not that Comcept). The analyst claims he bumped into Inafune "for the first time in two and a half years" in the Akasaka-Mitsuke neighborhood of Tokyo, where the two supposedly exchanged cards and Inafune apparently revealed Comcept is "a company that he's starting." Ichi provided no further details as to the nature of Inafune's purported new venture.

Meanwhile, Inafune has kept mum about his new endeavors on his personal blog, instead choosing to reflect on back pain, among many, many other things. But not his future business plans, unfortunately.

JoystiqRumor: Keiji Inafune's new company named 'Comcept' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-cardscapcomcomceptkeiji-inafunekoji-ichiWed, 15 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST