Kazutaka Kodaka: Creating Games for Passion, Not Profit
Hey there, gamers! It’s a tough time in the gaming industry right now, with closures and layoffs affecting developers worldwide. But amidst all the chaos, there’s one game creator who’s staying true to his passion. Kazutaka Kodaka, the mastermind behind Danganronpa and Master Detective Archives: RAIN CODE, recently made a bold statement that has gamers buzzing.
Creating Games for the Love of the Game
In a tweet posted earlier today, Kodaka expressed his indifference towards the commercial success of his games. He said, “Because I only make games that I like. So I don’t care if they sell well or not. Because it is more distinctive than perfection, and it is not a game that will be liked by everyone. I want as many people with similar sensibilities to me to buy my games as possible.” [source]
Wow, talk about dedication to your craft! Kodaka isn’t worried about the numbers or pleasing everyone. He’s focused on creating games that resonate with him and players who share his sensibilities. It’s like being a skilled gamer who’s not afraid to tackle difficult challenges and play games that aren’t mainstream. They do it for the love of the game, and so does Kodaka.
A New Direction: Too Kyo Games
In 2018, Kodaka left Spike Chunsoft, the studio behind Danganronpa, and founded Too Kyo Games. This indie company, consisting of six other veteran Japanese developers, has allowed Kodaka to explore a different style of game while still maintaining his unique voice.
Kodaka’s games may not be blockbuster hits, but they’re definitely niche. As of July this year, RAIN CODE has sold over 300,000 copies worldwide [source]. While that may not be breaking any sales records, it’s a testament to the dedicated fanbase that appreciates Kodaka’s distinct vision.
Just like when you stumble upon a hidden gem of a game that only a few people know about, finding Kodaka’s games feels like discovering a well-kept secret. It’s a special experience that’s not for everyone, but for those who appreciate it, it’s pure gaming bliss.
Staying True to Your Vision
It’s always inspiring to see creatives in the gaming industry stick to their artistic ideals. We often see it with auteurs who pour their heart and soul into crafting their narrative and game design vision. Unfortunately, sometimes that passion gets diluted when they work for larger companies.
But Kodaka is different. He’s still got that fire burning inside him, and he’s determined to create games that reflect his unique vision. It’s like when you’re playing a challenging game and you refuse to give up. You keep pushing forward, knowing that the satisfaction of overcoming obstacles is worth it in the end.
Conclusion: Embrace Your Inner Game Developer
So, fellow gamers, let’s take a page out of Kodaka’s book. Let’s embrace our inner game developers and create experiences that speak to our passions. Whether it’s developing mods, designing levels, or even just sharing your thoughts on social media, every gamer has the power to shape the industry they love.
Remember, it’s not always about the numbers or the mainstream appeal. It’s about staying true to your vision and creating something that resonates with you and others who share your sensibilities. Just like Kodaka, let’s make games that we love, regardless of whether they sell well or not.
So, pick up that controller, boot up your favorite game, and let your imagination run wild. Together, we can create a gaming world that’s as diverse and exciting as the games we love to play.