This extensive interview delves into the creation of FuRyu's action RPG, Reynatis, set for Western release on September 27th by NIS America. We hear from Creative Producer TAKUMI, Scenario Writer Kazushige Nojima, and Composer Yoko Shimomura.
TAKUMI discusses his role at FuRyu, emphasizing his involvement in Reynatis from concept to completion. He expresses delight at the game's positive reception, noting particularly strong international interest exceeding even domestic Japanese enthusiasm. The Japanese player base, he observes, strongly connects with the game, particularly fans of Tetsuya Nomura's work (Final Fantasy, Kingdom Hearts), recognizing and anticipating narrative developments.
The influence of Final Fantasy Versus XIII's trailer is addressed delicately. TAKUMI acknowledges its inspirational role, emphasizing his desire to create a game that fulfilled the potential hinted at in that unreleased title, while firmly stating Reynatis is a wholly original creation, deeply personal and distinct.
TAKUMI addresses the game's development, acknowledging areas for improvement and confirming planned updates to address balance, quality-of-life features, and bug fixes. He assures Western players will receive a refined version compared to the Japanese release.
The interview details the informal, direct approach TAKUMI took in collaborating with Nojima and Shimomura, utilizing direct messaging and personal connections rather than formal corporate channels. His personal admiration for their previous works (Kingdom Hearts, Final Fantasy VII and X) is highlighted as the driving force behind these collaborations.
TAKUMI discusses his action game background and the creative choices made within Reynatis's development, acknowledging budgetary constraints compared to larger-scale titles while emphasizing the game's overall experience as a cohesive whole rather than focusing solely on action gameplay.
The interview covers the three-year development process, navigating the challenges of the pandemic, and the successful collaboration with Square Enix for the NEO: The World Ends With You crossover. TAKUMI explains his personal approach, directly contacting Square Enix to propose the collaboration.
The discussion touches upon platform choices, acknowledging the Switch as the lead platform while recognizing its limitations, and the internal consideration of PC development within FuRyu. The partnership with NIS America for Western console releases is explained.
TAKUMI clarifies FuRyu's current focus on console development, explaining the rationale behind smartphone ports on a case-by-case basis. The lack of Xbox releases is attributed to insufficient consumer demand and development team experience with the platform in Japan.
TAKUMI expresses excitement for the Western release, highlighting the planned DLC releases to maintain player engagement and avoid spoilers. The possibility of future art books and soundtracks is discussed.
The interview concludes with TAKUMI sharing his recent gaming experiences, his preference for non-bitter beverages, and his personal preference for Reynatis among his projects. He encourages players, especially those who feel marginalized, to experience the game's strong thematic message.
The email exchange with Nojima and Shimomura provides further insights. Shimomura discusses her creative process and inspiration, while Nojima reflects on his approach to storytelling across different eras of game development. Both share their coffee preferences.
The interview concludes with a call to action for players to experience Reynatis and its powerful message. The inclusion of images throughout the original text is maintained in this rewritten version.
