Game developers wonder if it’s time to move away from the term “Easy Mode”
Game developer Taro Masuda recently took to Twitter to ask gamers how they felt about the term “Easy Mode” on difficulty selection screens and if it gives them an unpleasant feeling.
Why are games taking longer and longer to develop? Japanese developers discuss on Twitter
A discussion broke out on Twitter in Japan looking into the reasons why video games are taking longer and longer to develop. Listening to developers involved in making games shows it’s more complicated than simply needing more time or hands on deck to take care of everything.
Behind-the-scenes video game stories are being revealed using the “Actually, that was me” hashtag
Behind-the-scenes video game stories are being revealed using the “あれ実は私なんです (Actually, that was me)” hashtag. From the Monster Hunter series to Super Mario Bros merchandise.
Game developers share 4 games that made them the devs they are today
Game developers share 4 games that made them the devs they are today. There are a number of Japanese games among those listed, especially from the Legend of Zelda and Final Fantasy series.
Game developers explain the little tricks players don’t notice that improve gameplay
Game developers explain the little tricks players don’t notice that improve gameplay. “In Dishonored 2, NPCs don't strike as often when you turn your back on them,” says Arkane Studios’ Laurent Couvidou.
Japanese PS Store now accepts IARC ratings, making it easier to release games in Japan
SIE confirmed to us that the Japanese PlayStation Store now accepts IARC ratings in addition to the existing CERO ratings. Please note that this applies to download-only games.
The measures game developers take to avoid unsolicited ideas
The measures game developers take to avoid unsolicited ideas. A tweet from a former Sega employee on the matter has been gaining attention online.
Game translators discuss being left out of the credits & why veterans are leaving the AAA space
Game translators discuss being left out of the credits and why veterans are leaving the AAA space. Not only individual translators, but translation companies themselves have cases where they can and can’t make information public.
Japanese solo indie game developer looks back on their marketing process
Japanese solo indie game developer looks back on their marketing process behind Monmusu Gladiator. From doing a soft launch on smaller platforms before releasing on Steam, to sending out a press release at the right moment.
Game developers frustrated as their Steam review keys are being abused by scalpers
Game developers frustrated as their Steam review keys are being abused by scalpers. Japanese indie developers struggle with trust while hoping to promote sales.
Japanese indie developers discuss the difficulties of estimating development time
Japanese indie developers discuss the difficulties of estimating development time. When that 3 month project becomes a marathon.
Chinese game regulation: Genshin Impact, Shin Megami Tensei and Naruto cited in leaked document
Chinese game regulation: Genshin Impact, Shin Megami Tensei and Naruto cited in leaked document. “Japanese anime culture” and "Giving the player the option of choosing between good and evil" falls under the target as well.
Chinese game companies will self-regulate boys’ love content and effeminate male characters
Chinese game companies will self-regulate boys’ love content and effeminate male characters. Mandatory real-name verification is also included in the guidelines and 213 companies have pledged to the strict measures.