Square Enix Interview Explores Octopath Traveler

This extensive interview delves into the creation of FuRyu's action RPG, Reynatis, slated for Western release on September 27th via NIS America. We hear from Creative Producer TAKUMI, Scenario Writer Kazushige Nojima, and Composer Yoko Shimomura.

TAKUMI discusses his role in the game's conception and production, highlighting the surprisingly strong international buzz surrounding Reynatis. He shares positive feedback from Japanese players, particularly those familiar with Tetsuya Nomura's works, noting their insightful engagement with the narrative. The influence of Final Fantasy Versus XIII's initial trailer is acknowledged as a source of inspiration, but TAKUMI emphasizes Reynatis' unique identity and creative vision.

Addressing potential shortcomings in previous FuRyu titles, TAKUMI assures fans that planned updates will address balance, quality-of-life features, and technical issues. He confirms that the Western release will incorporate these refinements. The informal nature of his collaborations with Nojima and Shimomura is detailed, revealing direct communication via social media and messaging apps. TAKUMI's personal influences, including his deep appreciation for Kingdom Hearts and Final Fantasy, are explored, along with his approach to game design, balancing budget constraints with a focus on creating a fun and complete gaming experience.

The interview also covers the development process during the pandemic, the collaboration with Square Enix for NEO: The World Ends with You elements, platform choices (with Switch as the lead platform), and FuRyu's internal considerations regarding PC development. TAKUMI discusses the company's current focus on console gaming, while acknowledging the possibility of future smartphone ports on a case-by-case basis. The lack of Xbox releases is attributed to limited consumer demand in Japan and the development challenges involved.

TAKUMI expresses his excitement for the Western release and the planned DLC, emphasizing the simultaneous global rollout to prevent spoilers. The possibility of future art books and soundtracks is discussed, along with TAKUMI's personal gaming preferences and his favorite projects (Reynatis being his most cherished). He concludes by encouraging players, especially those who feel marginalized or stifled by societal pressures, to experience Reynatis' powerful message.

The email exchange with Yoko Shimomura and Kazushige Nojima offers further insights. Shimomura shares her creative process and reflects on her evolving compositional style, while Nojima discusses his approach to storytelling across different eras of game development. Both comment on their involvement with the project and their perspectives on Reynatis. The interview concludes with a lighthearted segment on coffee preferences.