Kou Shibusawa/Special Column

Translations of Kou Shibusawa's column at Gamecity are being written here. His column's full name is Shibusawa Kou Special Column Game Focus.

#1 Parents and Children Playing
April 12, 2012

Hello, everyone. I'm Kou Shibusawa. I decided to make a column to convey my thoughts and impressions directly to you. I hope you enjoy what I write.

Now, on to business. Today, I want to talk about Pokémon Conquest (Pokémon Plus Nobunaga's Ambition).

Nobunaga's Ambition is a historical simulation series which was first made in 1983. Next year will be the series' 30th anniversary. Nobunaga no Yabou: Tendou is the latest main installment and the thirteenth entry in the series, but there have been other genres and platforms incorporated with other titles as well. Nobunaga no Yabou Internet, Nobunaga no Yabou Online, and the ongoing social game Hyakuman-nin no Nobunaga no Yabou to name a few. But the series has never before been tied to another franchise, so Pokémon Conquest is its first ever collaboration title.

The goal while developing this game was to make it a "simulation title that parents and kids can play together". There was a fear that simulation games might be too high a hurdle for children to handle. So the first approach we devised was to make it a "children's first simulation game" and make it as easy as possible. Things were going well until we thought to have it simultaneously appeal to the adults who played Nobunaga's Ambition. These two contrasting ideas caused several hardships in the creative process, but I think we managed to find a good balance to satisfy both sides of the coin.

As you may well know, Pokémon is a tremendously popular game with children. Adults may overhear their children playing and they might recognize one of the historical figures' names. With this title, children can share their knowledge of Pokémon to their unknowing parents, and parents can enjoy teaching what they know about historical figures to their uninformed children. Both parent and child can mutually bounce back and share information with one another, which I think is a fun experience that this game can offer. Please, by all means, play this game as a family. It would be truly fortunate if everyone has a great time playing it.

I still have a lot of things I want to talk about. Next time I want to write my thoughts as a developer down, so please look forward to it.

#2 Thought Process While Creating a Game for 6 Years
April 24, 2012

Hello, everyone. Nice to see you all again, it's Kou Shibusawa. It has warmed up for the first time in awhile, so I'm feeling pretty good today. I wonder if all of our new recruits and employees feel comfortable yet. I'm always looking forward to facing problems everyday, so let's do out best together.

Last time I introduced Pokémon Conquest (Pokémon Plus Nobunaga's Ambition) and a bit of the historical simulation series, Nobunaga's Ambition. Next up for me is Romance of the Three Kingdoms, which first saw the light of publication in 1985. I wanted to make this series to depict the dramatic stories of the heroes, great men, and honorable individuals in the Three Kingdoms era.

I'm sure you all know where I'm going with this. I want to feature Sangokushi 12. It's been six years since the last installment Sangokushi XI. I hope fans who have been counting the days for this new installment thoroughly enjoy their experiences.

First topic that I should cover is the simplicity of availability. PC games nowadays give the impression that they need high-specs in order to play, as though they can only be played and installed into one specific machine and model. With this title, I wanted to make sure that it could be played comfortably for a larger, happier user base. Laptop users and even those using Ultrabooks –which doesn't even have a disk tray– can access the game.

Like the Battle of Guandu and the Battle of Chibi, the story of Romance of the Kingdoms is riddled with disastrous obstacles which are overturned through a series of complex circumstances. The game seeks to recreate these events in the form of "Strategies". Aspects of a character's personality act as the combined inspiration for assigned "Tactics" and "Specialties", which allows their traits to be reenacted numerous times.

The change to real-time combat already has the potential to cause stress, even if it may pull people in and be entertaining. I think there are people who consider real-time combat to be too difficult or too overwhelming for them to handle. To help ease these players into the new system, the handy "Delegation Command" was prepared. With this system, people can choose to watch over the situation and only order their characters when they think it is absolutely necessary. I believe the system can be adjusted to fit for everyone's needs.

Another series' first is the "Online Versus" addition. Players throughout Japan can form rivalries and fight against one another. The offline content was designed to appeal to players of varying levels of proficiency, so I believe a variety of players can easily adjust to the online mode. Everyone can create their own deck of "Character Cards" for battles and plot who to send in their decks individually. Since every character has a new portrait, I hope people feel thrilled as they earn and collect their cards. Each card can offer a new strategy to look forward to, and players can study and learn from their opponent's tactics. The online experience offers unique ways of enjoying this installment.

I really like Zhuge Liang in the Three Kingdoms era. I really admire how he stayed true to his honor for Liu Bei. Even after his lord died, he tried his hardest to support his heir, Liu Shan. And then he wrote the Chu Shi Biao to convey his deep loyalties for the Liu family; I really feel for the honorable life he led. I'm sure everyone has their favorite figures as well. Please use them in Sangokushi 12.

It may be easy to play, but I will never forget all of the ordeals and hardships that went into this game during those six years. I have a lot of confidence in the end product, so please enjoy it. Whether it be alone or with a friend, I'm hoping you enjoy Sangokushi 12's world.

Please keep watching for the next time I write.

#3 To Create Enduring Entertainment
May 18, 2012

Long time no see everyone. It's Kou Shibusawa. The cherry blossoms have already come and gone, but I think the vivid green leaves of the trees is refreshing to look at.

This time I'm going to revisit Pokémon Plus Nobunaga's Ambition.

First off, I want to talk about how the game's title was made. Actually, I have always had a deep love for the Pocket Monster series. Ishihara (The Pokémon Company Representative President, Tsunekazu Ishihara) and I have met and talked to one another countless times in past video game meetings and conferences. Just as how I have loved the Pocket Monster series, Ishihara said to me his love for the Nobunaga's Ambition series. One time during our meetings, we chatted and agreed on something: "We should make a game together someday". While the game itself took about three years to develop, both me and Mr. Pokémon were thinking about this game long before its actual conception.

Once we finally started to visualize the game, the obvious genres were either action or simulation. As everyone well knows, the Warriors series is the company franchise known for performing collaborations. But Ishihara strongly requested, "If it's a Kou Shibusawa production, then it has to be a Nobunaga's Ambition one!" In that moment, the miraculous collaboration between the well-loved Pokémon and Nobunaga's Ambition series was born.

In a moment of serendipity, we realized the first Nobunaga's Ambition title had 17 provinces just as there are 17 Pokémon types. The theme of unifying 17 countries under one rule originated from this concept.

The "collection element" is a given with any Pokémon title. One of the thrills of a Pokémon title is completing the entries for its Pokédex. Since Pokémon Plus Nobunaga's Ambition is a collaboration we thought to place not only the Pokémon, but the characters themselves as a part of the dictionary. To reflect the change, Pokédex was renamed Collection in the title menu.

Since the characters themselves have their quirks and charms, episodes dedicated to each character can be unlocked after clearing the game's main story once. Actually, when the game was first sold, there was a rising cry from consumers who said, "There's still this much to do?" As a developer, I respond, "Yes, you betcha!"

In these extra episodes, I think it's a challenging change to fight against the other AI controlled characters and forming links with Pokémon. Even after the game is finished, people can still freely aim to complete their collection. I'm happy if everyone enjoys replaying whatever scenario they choose for countless hours.

Finally, I would like to chat about the secrets to winning battles in this game.

To cut to the chase, it's to target a Pokémon's respective type weaknesses for that "It's super effective!" message. Before characters take to the field, it's possible to check the opponent's Pokémon types and particular type affinities can be appropriately compensated. Type affinities can cover the differences of strength between Pokémon.

Another tip I have is timing a character's special ability, or their "Bushou Power", and using each stage's gimmicks wisely. Use them in every way possible to win battles.

I think creating one's own method of achieving victory is one of the appealing traits of simulation titles. I hope everyone personalizes their niche and tactics as they play Pokémon Plus Nobunaga's Ambition.

I'll be seeing you again in my next update.

#4 We Need Warmheartedness in This Age
July 20, 2012

It's been awhile, everyone. It's Kou Shibusawa. Before I knew it, our summer productions are underway and the hot season is bearing down on us. This time I would like to say my thoughts about the events this past month ago.

In early June, E3 (Electronic Entertainment Expo) 2012 took place in Los Angeles, America. Like I had done previously the year before, I attended the event to see the latest titles in the game market while simultaneously appearing for the company presentation. I love video games very much, so I hope everyone shared the same excitement I had with our company's big announcements. For anyone who needs a refresher, the trailers can be seen here but there are many other titles which were presented.

Now, about the same time I came back from America, our joint-stock company Gust had finished their newest title Atelier Ayesha ~Alchemist of the Ground of Dusk~. We held a completion meeting with the media to celebrate on June 21st.

As you may have heard, the first title Gust has done with the company after the merger is Ciel nosurge ~Ushiwareta Hoshi he Sasugu Uta~. It's a brand new title never seen before on the PS Vita and it was a very challenging project for the Gust developers. On the other hand, Atelier Ayesha is a continuation of the Atelier series and is the fourteenth installment. When I helped the preparations for the completion meeting, I couldn't help but remember my playthrough with the previous title, Atelier Meruru ~Alchemist of Arland 3~.

To start off, the integration of two different companies is often comparable to marriage. What I mean is that, while it's important to keep track of several financial records, I think it's especially essential that we share the same desire to offer satisfying products consumers would want. Let's call it the "basic philosophy for making games".

Atelier Meruru has an iconic scene which springs to my mind when I think of this statement. It happens near the beginning of the game with the main character Meruru. She would later inherit the house of her fond mentor Totori, but we first see her stirring a large cauldron only to have her concoction explode in front of her. Of course, it was an accident and not intentional in any way by Meruru. Totori didn't reprimand her pupil, rather she responded to the explosion positively.

Meruru asks her if it was okay, and Totori kindly replies, "It's fine. Everyone experiences failure when they're first starting out." I believe this simple moment of encouragement goes beyond games from Koei or Tecmo, speaking volumes on a world view which has touched and warmed my heart more than anything else as a producer.

Atelier Ayesha moves beyond the aforementioned three part Arland series and takes place in an entirely new world and story. I can relate with including new changes to a game's system and atmosphere with the long running Nobunaga's Ambition series. The topic may be different, but I share the same anxieties of whether or not consumers enjoy the introduction of a new feature or tone in a franchise.

However, I realized the apprehensions I had were completely groundless. On July 1st, Gust held their first official event Gust Gala at Oomiya Sonic City. There were fans lining up around the entire venue for the event, patiently waiting for their seats in the rain. The voice actors weren't the only ones who received an enthusiastic applause during stage introductions. The directors for the two titles, Okamura and Tsuchiya, had the same warm cheerful greetings from fans.

Earlier I had talked about E3. It was an event overflowing with first-person shooters and realism, and a hardcore theme was emphasized in many of the productions. Even our company is hoping to appeal to this side of the market with Team NINJA's projects.

But I personally think we need a tender product to nurse these troubled times.

Atelier Ayesha is the fourteenth part of a series which exceeds the number of entries seen in Nobunaga's Ambition. It is crafted by the love of its developers, and it continues to attract fans from any entry of its franchise. The answer can be found in the joy within the Atelier series.

Please look forward to my next update.

#5 Secrets Behind 2nd
September 10, 2012

Hey, everyone. Is everyone doing well in this hot weather? This summer has been pretty busy for us at Koei-Tecmo with all of the new titles that are being developed. Today, I want to cover Sengoku Musou Chronicle 2nd, a game which will be available for purchase this month. Before we touch on the game, I think it wouldn't hurt to talk about the producer himself, our good friend Koinuma.

The first time I worked with Koinuma was during the development for the PlayStation 2 title, Kessen (released March 4, 2000). Back then he was the lead programmer, meaning he was my right hand programmer who had to fulfill my many requests for the game. We spent scores of all-nighters together in order to make it in time for the PlayStation 2 launch. Of course we celebrated with a drink after the game had finished, but I will always remember that one barbecue beef restaurant we went to so many times during the game's development. Good times, good times. (laughs)

After that, he was promoted to be producer, which I believe most people would know of by now. He went on to produce many titles. He first started with the Sengoku Musou series and went on to work on the Gundam Musou series, Pokémon Plus Nobunaga no Yabou, One Piece: Kaizoku Musou and so on. I think it's safe to say he accepted his new position full swing.

He and his team are the minds behind Sengoku Musou Chronicle 2nd. Not 2, but 2nd. The name reflects consumers' requests for improvement of the original title being treated with utmost relevance. Producer Koinuma wanted to relaunch Sengoku Musou Chronicle with ideas they couldn't put in before and requested for the 2nd as the title.

First off, we should talk about Multi Scenarios. These branching perspectives adds depth to the historical facts presented within the game. This is especially important for establishing the player's choices since the Chronicles series has the protagonist = the player.

There is also the new "Extreme Trials" (Moushou Enbu) mode filled with short special missions fitting for the 3DS. Its "Combat Record" saves each player's completion results for entertaining comparisons with other players. There is strong emphasis on making this mode the one which "everyone can have fun playing". Family and friends can compete against one another for the highest score in their neighborhood or the entire country. Chance Encounters has also been improved, now allowing players to name their weapons to their liking.

But that isn't all that Team Omega Force and Producer Koinuma has in store. For the first time in approximately two years and nine months, new characters are being introduced into the series. They are Takatora Tōdō, Munenori Yagyū, and Naotora Ii. Each character has their own charms, but Takatora Tōdō dressed in his blue outfit is rather poignant.

Takatora Tōdō is well known for his numerous masters. With the game's Multi Scenarios and the instant Character Switch in battles, I think it's possible for players to feel a link with him and the many figures he interacted with during his lifetime. Of course, Producer Koinuma took great care to have Naotora Ii gracefully enter the battlefield and made sure to have Munenori Yagyū's actions reflect a new type of swordsman in the series.

Last but not least, I want to thank you and all other fans for their generous support. The series has vastly exceeded beyond our expectations into something spectacular. For instance, there is the Kumamoto Taxi collaboration which started this year in June. The Sengoku Musou versions of Kiyomasa Katō and Gracia decorate the taxis, but they have been in circuit for quite a surprising time in Kumamoto.

And there's the event I was talked about just the other day: one of the Sengoku Musou series spin-off events, Sengoku Musou Seiyuu Ougi 2012 Aki. It took place the first day of this month at Nakano Sunplaza. Several voice actor fans attended, but many of them were also fans of the franchise.

This is how a single game series has been exposed and loved by many people. I earnestly hope the series's newest title will continue to spread the joy which can be found in this franchise.

I hope I have the pleasure of your attendance in my next entry.

#6 Shine in the Winter Sky, Shin Hokuto Musou!
December 14, 2012

It's been awhile, everyone. It's Kou Shibusawa again. Cities everywhere are lighting up with Christmas cheer, and the winter weather is setting in. This time I'd like to blow away the chill with the fiery passion found in our newest title, Shin Hokuto Musou. Before I do, I should really talk about the first entry, Hokuto Musou.

Hokuto Musou is a collaboration between Hokuto no Ken –one of the greatest action-packed comics of all time– and the Musou series –a franchise which boasts the exhilaration of controlling a one man army– released in Japan on March 25, 2010. The title sold over 60,0000 copies in Japan alone thanks to support of many consumers.

I was the Senior Advisor for the project. At first, I thought to simply oversee the development team's progress as a quiet observer. But I couldn't hold back. When someone thinks of Hokuto no Ken, they're going to think of men with a meaty weight in their punches. I tried to express this to the team, and they would experiment with the concept. Development was a long period of trial and errors. I still remember all the brush ups they did like it was yesterday.

When Hokuto Musou was completed, it sold well and became popular. However, there were many complications trying to present the full potential of the original work, and many fans wanted more. I think the producer, Koinuma, shared these sentiments. That's why he strove to present a strong game that captures the essence and appeal of Hokuto no Ken with Shin Hokuto Musou.

The highest priority for this goal, of course, is reworking the action. For instance, the protagonist Kenshiro was reworked from the ground up. Each punch and kick he had in the previous title was judged by its speed, intensity, and strength. Developers revised these actions and more for a quicker, stronger impact. The process was the birth of a new and sensational one man army by itself.

Kenshiro wasn't the only one to be given a revamp. Every character from the previous title was as well. There was effort to clarify the intricate differences between the Hokuto Shinken and Nanto Seiken practitioners. Non-playable characters from previous title, such as Fudo the Mountain of awesome might and Juza the Cloud of unpredictable spontaneity, also received the same action revamps for their playable debut.

The New in the title also extends to the story, which received the same thorough examination. It includes the Celestial Emperor, Shura Country, and Bat and Rin arcs with episodes missing from the Raoh arc in the previous title. Illusionary Mode has its own story with approximately eight hours of enjoyment. The Bat and Rin arc is also the first time the final Hokuto no Ken story from the original creators has been adapted for a video format.

I'm a big Hokuto no Ken fan too. I relate with Bat and Rin's transitions to adulthood. I feel their many sorrows in the second half of the original canon and the first half has a different flavor in retrospect. It's nice to say, "Kou Shibusawa plays scenes from Hokuto no Ken", on this blog.

On November 29th, the meeting for Shin Hokuto Musou's completion took place. My thanks to everyone who attended, both in person and to those who watched the online stream. Everyone who is curious can attend the store front meetings to try the game early, but those who can't can try the PlayStation 3 only trial version in the PlayStation Store. I hope everyone enjoys the revised action experience. The schedule for the meetings can be found here. If time permits, please enjoy the differences between these trial versions.

"I have not a single regret for Shin Hokuto Musou". I hope you can join me again for my next entry.