Yakuza: Like a Dragon Devs Embrace Epic Clashes

A recent interview with Automaton reveals the surprising approach Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio takes to game development: embracing internal conflict to create better games.

Like a Dragon Studio: Conflict Fuels Creativity

Passionate Debate, a Key Ingredient

Series director Ryosuke Horii shared that disagreements within the team are not just common, but actively encouraged. These "in-fights," he explains, are a crucial part of their process. Horii emphasizes the role of the planner in mediating these discussions, ensuring they remain productive and result in improvements to the game.

According to Horii, the absence of debate would lead to a less compelling final product. "Fights are always welcome," he stated, clarifying that the goal is a positive outcome. The planner's role is to guide the team towards a fruitful conclusion, ensuring that disagreements translate into tangible improvements.

The studio's collaborative spirit emphasizes meritocracy over team loyalty. Horii highlights that ideas are judged solely on their quality, regardless of their origin. However, this open environment doesn't mean accepting every suggestion. Poor ideas are "mercilessly" rejected, fostering a culture of rigorous debate and constructive criticism. Ultimately, the driving force behind these "battles" is the pursuit of exceptional game quality.