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 in conceptualizing, producing, and directing the game, highlighting the unexpectedly strong international interest exceeding even domestic Japanese reception. He attributes this partly to the game's resonance with fans of Tetsuya Nomura's work, particularly Final Fantasy and Kingdom Hearts, acknowledging the inspiration drawn from Final Fantasy Versus XIII's initial trailer while emphasizing Reynatis' unique identity.
TAKUMI addresses planned updates to refine gameplay balance and address technical aspects, promising a polished Western release. He details the informal, direct communication with Nojima and Shimomura, secured through personal connections and direct messaging, rather than formal company channels. He reveals his personal fandom of their prior works as the driving force behind these collaborations.
The interview explores the game's development timeline (approximately three years), navigating the pandemic's challenges, and the successful collaboration with Square Enix for NEO: The World Ends with You elements, achieved through direct company-to-company outreach. TAKUMI clarifies the Switch as the lead platform, acknowledging its limitations while balancing broader platform reach with the directorial vision.
He confirms FuRyu's internal PC development efforts, contrasting the Japanese market's perceived separation between console and PC gaming communities. Future smartphone ports are considered on a case-by-case basis, prioritizing console experiences. The lack of Xbox releases is attributed to insufficient Japanese consumer demand and the development team's limited Xbox experience.
TAKUMI expresses excitement for the Western release, emphasizing the unspoiled experience through a planned DLC release schedule. He confirms that post-DLC plans for art books and soundtracks are currently absent. He shares his recent gaming experiences, highlighting Tears of the Kingdom, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, and Jedi Survivor. He expresses his strong preference for Reynatis among his projects, emphasizing its powerful message of self-acceptance and resilience against societal pressures.
The email exchange with Nojima and Shimomura provides further insight. Shimomura discusses her creative process and highlights the enjoyable intensity of composing for Reynatis. Nojima reflects on his evolving approach to game narratives and shares his personal gaming preferences.
The interview concludes with everyone's coffee preferences, followed by acknowledgements and links to other TouchArcade interviews.
