Like other console game creators, Grasshopper Manufacture is also interested in digital distribution and social games. During a casual chat with Akira Yamaoka, Chief Creative Officer, we talked about his plans for the punk game developer and thoughts on the two new handhelds.
Being Chief Creative Officer, what’s your vision for Grasshopper Manufacture after Lollipop Chainsaw and Black Knight Sword?
Akira Yamaoka, Chief Creative Officer: I’m thinking of expanding on new platforms possibly social media, mobile phones, Steam, and Origin.
What are your thoughts on Steam?
I don’t think that packaged games will die out, but Steam has a lot of potential since it works with different hardware.
Do you want to design new games for Steam or re-release games Grasshopper Manufacture’s library?
New games.
What do you think of the new handheld platforms, Vita and the 3DS?
I’m not sure the Vita is selling well even in Japan. But, it’s a really good platform. I don’t know why it’s not selling. [Laughs.] I like it. 3DS might have more potential since some DS owners might upgrade, but I don’t see too many 3DS owners overseas, so that’s disappointing.
I think I have my 3DS in my bag…
[Laughs.] Oh! You know in Japan you really see everyone with one.
Are you thinking about any of the new platforms like Vita, 3DS, or Wii U?
Not at the moment, but I would like to try those.
Are you going to make any more music games like Rebuild of Evangelion: Sound Impact?
Maybe with Steam and Origin. [Laughs.]
Aside from music games, what kind of games do you want to make being CCO.
Horror games!
Did you get a chance to play the new Silent Hill, Downpour?
Not yet. What do you think of it?
I’ve only got to try the combat and it seems like the game is designed with a bigger emphasis on fighting.
Silent Hill isn’t about fighting… [Laughs]
I know you have No More Heroes for Mobage, but what other social games do you want to make?
We’re creating an RPG style game called Avian Busters and a humans vs. zombie social game.
Will you bring any of these social games overseas?
Yeah, we’re working with DeNA and ngmoco, so you’ll be able to play these games. We’re aiming to release one title in April, May, and June.
How is Black Knight Sword shaping up?
It’s shaping up well, but we haven’t set the release date yet.
What about the PS3 version of Sine Mora? I remember it was announced for both platforms in Tokyo, but it’s only on Xbox 360 now.
Well, you know it kind of happened. Stay tuned for more news.
