Japanese games

Winsage
July 4, 2025
Microsoft announced 9,000 layoffs, bringing the total for the year to over 15,300, including cuts within Xbox. The layoffs are attributed to unrealistic fiscal expectations set by CFO Amy Hood, creating an environment of fear and uncertainty. There is a perception that these layoffs are part of a broader shift towards artificial intelligence, with Microsoft executives and shareholders reportedly resenting the investment in Activision-Blizzard. The company plans to invest billions in new AI training centers globally, raising concerns about the impact on its core gaming and consumer products. Microsoft’s AI products have faced criticism, and the company has been accused of losing sight of the human element in its consumer businesses. The recent layoffs have left employees feeling uncertain about their futures, and there is a growing sentiment that Microsoft lacks a coherent mission or ethos, prioritizing short-term gains over long-term innovation.
AppWizard
May 15, 2025
Kenji Matsubara is transitioning from CEO to an advisory role at SNK, where he has served since 2021. His leadership focused on expanding the development division, strengthening sales and marketing, and enhancing SNK's global presence. SNK's management expressed appreciation for his contributions during this transformative period.
AppWizard
April 24, 2025
ReFantazio has achieved unexpected success on PC, indicating a growing interest among PC gamers for Japanese titles. Katsura Hashino, the creative director known for the Persona series, noted that the percentage of PC players engaging with Atlus games is increasing annually, with long-term data supporting this trend. Major industry players like Square Enix are also moving away from console exclusivity, as seen with the successful PC port of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. Hashino emphasized the importance of allowing players to enjoy games in their preferred environments. Additionally, the lead UI designer of Metaphor: ReFantazio referenced a lesser-known PS2 title from 25 years ago, highlighting the ongoing influence of older games on modern design.
AppWizard
March 31, 2025
Former PlayStation executive Shuhei Yoshida discussed the significant impact of the game Nier Automata on the Japanese gaming industry. Released in 2017, the game has sold nine million copies and shifted the perspective of Japanese developers, who previously emulated successful trends from other regions. Yoshida noted that Nier Automata demonstrated that uniquely Japanese stories could resonate globally, leading to a renewed focus on authenticity and cultural heritage among developers. This shift marked a revival in the Japanese game industry, encouraging creators to embrace their identities and enriching the global gaming landscape.
AppWizard
February 15, 2025
Japanese developers, particularly Capcom, are increasingly recognizing the potential of the PC platform, as evidenced by their commitment to simultaneous PC releases for the Monster Hunter series, specifically with the upcoming launch of Monster Hunter Wilds. Producer Ryozo Tsujimoto noted the growing significance of PC gaming, highlighting the opportunity to attract new players. The beta for Monster Hunter Wilds achieved a peak of 463,798 players, surpassing the numbers of Helldivers 2 and exceeding the launch peak of Monster Hunter World at 334,684 players. Capcom has made adjustments for PC gamers, including lowering system requirements and introducing a benchmarking tool. The director of Monster Hunter Wilds participated in beta testing anonymously, engaging with players without revealing his identity.
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