One of the best JRPG franchises I've ever played. I can't wait for the next installments!
Well done in getting this interview. I enjoyed his answers and it's refreshing to see a CEO have this mindset in today's industry. Don't cater to audiences - create the games that you want to make. Love it.
I'm 90+hrs in and I think it's Miyazaki-san's fully realised vision for what he had with Souls. Having said that...it is essentially another Souls game in all but name. Same animations, same sounds, same combat, same systems, same fonts, same UX and same ancient game engine complete with the same shortcomings like clumsy AI and physics, all packaged as a new IP. Not a sequel...a NEW IP. This should invite criticism, even if he has perfected the formula and said formula is addicting and still fun. We criticise SEQUELS that do this ala Assassin's Creed, CoD or Far Cry for example, but this isn't a sequel doing it - it's a supposed brand new IP doing it. Sekiro had enough different to be called something new, so I thought that would be the same here, but it isn't. This should invite valid criticism.
The other mild criticism is that after playing the Demon's Souls Remake, you can feel how much of a step down Elden Ring is when it comes to the technical side of things. The graphics, performance, music production, sound design, etc is far superior on Demon's Souls. Yes, I understand that Demon's Souls Remake is a next (this) gen only game, but it's also because Sony have unmatched tech. It would be amazing if From Software got to use that tech with the know-how teams. From need to shake things up. Elden should be the last game using this old technology. They need a new game engine and a big change to development of this subgenre.
They're my criticisms. Outside of them, this is the best rendition of his Souls vision yet with some of the best dark fantasy themes and visuals yet put to game.
With all that together, I can only go as high as an 8.5/10 (and that is very high).
It plays nothing like a 2014 shooter....that is the most ridiculous headline to a review I've seen in awhile. It's so inaccurate and random!
It's new old school. And the new old school shooter didn't come (back) into style until Doom 2016...and if anything, the game is more closely replicating Doom Eternal from 2020. Hilarious.
It would definitely be a Switch game if I could include them as they had Bravely Default II and more importantly, Shin Megami Tensei V. The latter is one of the best RPGs since Persona 5!
Some of us prefer the Lynchian/Kubrick style of storytelling over a straightforward narrative. And in my opinion, Returnal had the most affecting, deep, enigmatic and get-under-your-skin narrative of any game this year for me. It had me thinking about it long after the credits, piecing it together as it digested slowly. Pure art.
If the price allows for grander AAA experiences like only Sony can deliver and the £69 price is only exclusive to said AAA games then yes, I will still support it.
People forget that games in the 90's ala Megadrive (Genesis), N64 games, etc were £59.99. And then years later in the PS4/5 era, with inflation, games have dropped to £49.99, yet the budgets for said games has increased dramatically. That doesn't add up at all. We need to make sure the industry is sustainable if we want grand AAA experiences (and others) to thrive the way Sony's do.
Also, 3D Audio on a quality headset is absolutely outstanding. Mind-blowing even. Returnal is the best to use it so far - almost felt like I was in the Matrix and also convinced me that Returnal has the best sound design I've heard yet in a game.
Sony: I started this indie *****. Is this the ***** thanks I get?
Also...it's funny how this is posted on the eve of a mostly indie showcase tomorrow. It might be the same indie teams that Sony donated $10 million to for covid relief last year....or it could be the Japanese indie Devs that Sony have donated to recently? Who knows.... anyway, Sony hates Indies.
So....they want to take away his independence that he thought so hard for?
I know this represents very few Sony/Kojima diehards and was probably started as a joke, but Come on....we all know he prefers PlayStation and his success/audience will mostly be on PlayStation, but part of Sony's Moto is to give established creators the freedom to do what they want. Herman has also stated that they like to start up their studio in exchange for a game and then let them go wherever they want and strike whatever deals they please. And that's the correct moto. One I'm sure will have an everlasting effect in Kojima-san, Jade Raymond, etc and will always have them coming back to Sony due to said goodwill.
Bloober Team and Silent Hill is not a combination I ever wanted to see. Going by their past works, they are not fit to do a Silent Hill. Bloober are not good at holding themselves back in favour of the subtle and suggestive, atmosphere and imagination. Their games have been amusement park haunted houses.
Furthermore, Silent Hill has failed in every single Western developer's hands. It is a Japanese game and should be back in Japanese hands. I take hope from the reaffirmed comment from VGC that there's another Silent Hill in development in Japan. I can't take watching this franchise, one I absolutely adore, continue to be gutted and destroyed anymore.
Konami's official merchandise Twitter has told questioning fans via DM that they should "hold tight and keep an eye on our Socials 🤫🤫🤫". The promotional image the account uses for the Silent Hill merchandise also uses font from the first four Silent Hill games for each two letters of the title...but the title is off centre with the image like it is missing a final letter....Furthermore, the PlayStation insider "The Nexus" on ResetEra had said that they are going to use their connections and put out some feelers and see what they can find....a day later, she came back to say "#TeamReal". After being asked about this comment and what pushed her to believe these theories, she sent one more reply saying "Get ready for Paradise". Paradise is a place promised by The Order in Silent Hill.
One of my fave go-to PlayStation news YouTubers, whom also helped kick off this conspiracy - MBG, also sent a DM to Blue Box asking for peace of mind and not too long after....his behaviour has completely shifted to not talking about the conspiracy directly and just saying he's "very excited" to hear more about Abandoned. He's also posting a couple of hints that seem to be saying "just wait", including a picture of Cliff from Death Stranding doing the "shh" motion.
These are just developments over the past 24hrs, nevermind the entire time this has been investigated and the mass amount of evidence found since then.
I believe that it is something. I definitely believe a new Silent Hill is about to be announced. I'm just not fully convinced Kojima will be at the helm (but then again, there's a lot of evidence to suggest he's up to something when it comes to Blue Box).
Something is definitely going on. It is exciting and real or not, has destroyed E3 lol. All eyes are on Sony...again.
Yes I have noticed this. Usually on Returnal. Because that game gets me into a bit of a hypnotic gameplay loop, I lose track of time. I usually get the low battery notification and then forget I received that notification 5 minutes later and continue playing. Not once has it switched off! I've continued gaming for a good 3-5hrs after and the controller has been alive and kicking.
Hopefully something that'll be addressed in a patch, but no big deal as is.
I don't do multiplayer, but I doubt it'll be similar to the games they've previously worked on. The reason I say that is because Sony has a Moto that they made clear not too long back that they want new ideas and not to take market share away from existing franchises with similar games. So I am curious at least!
Well of course I'll take it as it's no extra cost (I think?)....but I didn't ask for it. And therein is the problem. How many people who bought a PS5 will ask for it? I suppose it depends on content, but it is very wise for them to be testing it right now instead of fully implementing it.
This could be the start of something great/more if they keep adding things. I say keep the pressure on them, that means we get better toys!
I have no issues with Mr Jim Ryan currently. I honestly believe he is simply (as he's already said) letting the games do the talking. I personally like this way, but I can understand the flip side too, especially for news sites such as this one.
I've been a fan of PlayStation since '94 and remember Mr Ryan throughout the years. We must remember that he spearheaded the movement to turn around the PS3's fortunes in Europe, ultimately allowing it to come out on top in the region and thus allowing the PS4 and PlayStation as a whole to begin its global dominance the following generation. I think based on that and his other achievements, he's an obvious go-to for a leadership candidate.
Although I understand certain speculative concerns such as him coming from a leading Marketing role, that he could be all about the numbers (and all leaders have to be to a large degree), I think it's way too early to be writing him off, I'm liking most of what the man is saying, especially in this new interview and his results are backing him up.
We'll see what happens. A critical eye is always healthy (the closure of the old stores), but constant bashings and calls for him to step down are completely unwarranted, especially considering his accolades as a veteran.
Can't wait for their next big gaming event. Just like their "Future of Gaming" event silenced those vocal critics back then, I'm confident they'll do it again. I do believe the competition will be fierce this time, though.
@Ashina I hear your concerns, but if I may, I politely assume you have been a little misguided by the recent and unfounded headlines/speculation rather than what's actually happening.
In the launch period for the PS5 alone (and concentrating on first party alone) you had:
*Spiderman Miles Morales - the AAA blockbuster *Sackboy A Big Adventure - a 3D platformer *Demon's Souls - a hardcore, niche RPG *Astro's Playroom - an innovative tech showcase, 3D platformer *Destruction All-Stars - the Arcade, multiplayer game
I also believe we are still in the launch period so let's add Returnal in there - the Super fast, Rogue-lite shoot em up mixed with Sony's trademark cinematic storytelling. And then we'll have Ratchet and Clank Rift Apart - a Pixar style, Action adventure/platformer game.
Based on actual evidence and not speculation, the exact opposite to your concerns is true. And remember, this was just the first party games. Sony's dedication to 3rd Party, more niche exclusives such as Bugsnax, Oddworld Soulstorm and Kena Bridge of Spirits have also been launched/to be launched soon.
I have no other conclusion to come to other than Sony are more diverse and "on it" than ever before. It's certainly the most diverse launch line up they've ever had.
We'll see if this winning streak continues. I have no doubts, however.
Absolutely correct. I've been repeating this a bit too much this past two weeks. The online outrage is mostly fabricated, dramatised or completely untrue.
It's like certain people and gaming press have an agenda or a goldfish memory....or both!
There are more reasons you can add to this that would further point the opposite way the media is.
This is not to say there are no areas to keep an eye on with Sony, there is! But there were the previous generation and the generations before that. But lately, they have been completely blown out of proportion and no, we are not seeing another (early) PS3 era...not by lightyears!
I'd prefer a brand new IP, but a reboot of The Getaway, complete with multiplayer would be an absolutely huge hit in today's GTA dominated world. But I think it'll be a new IP because Sony have already stated that they don't want to steal any market share from any existing dominators with their whole "First, best, must" philosophy.
Not necessarily - they greenlighted an extremely niche game, Demon's Souls as a launch title for their new console (and if rumours are to be believed, want to make a big budget film out of this niche game too!). I'm optimistic that they're still going to take risks and fund original and unique ideas as AAA releases. Let's not forget the recent Jade Raymond Deal too. Or how Abandoned just got a big spotlight on their platform and how Media Molecule have stated that Sony are providing big finds and support to further their Dreams IP?
I disagree. Although a good game and one that has/had mass commercial appeal (hence it selling well despite lukewarm reception), it is a game that is wholly unoriginal and just kind of halted Sony's first party, innovative output with a cookie-cutter release like Days Gone (again, as much as I liked it). I think Days Gone was greenlighted very early on, perhaps before the zombie craze became what it did, because the game had a unique hoard mechanic and that probably made Sony excited at the time of the greenlight, but by the time it came out, it was very unoriginal. That's my personal take on it.
I'm happy that they're working on something new as I want new ideas over sequels and remakes, but what I am "concerned" about is how much credence Naughty Dog are getting with anything they want to do. Sony were about giving creatives complete creative freedom, they had a stellar reputation for this and I'd like to see that continue and based on evidence, they are....but there is an apparent restructure going on at the same time and that's always worthy of a watchful eye.
Completely unneeded. I can understand it from a business perspective absolutely, but this is completely unneeded as the original holds up just fine.
I feel the same way about the rumoured Resi 4 remake.
If this report is to be believed, I am pleased to hear Sony Bend are working on something new and not Days Gone 2. IF this report is to be believed. I prefer original ideas as opposed to sequels and remakes.
-Giving away ten free games that require no subscription at all currently, in order to encourage us staying home and safe.
-This free games list is not finished!
-Have consistently delivered an unmatched PS+ selection this year
-On PS5, have a PS+ Collection which includes some of the biggest games of the last generation at no extra cost
-Have donated to current world issues charities recently and actively seek to end said issues, at least within the industry
-Have given their staff unmatched bonuses equivalent to 7 months wages for a job well done on PS5's enormous and record breaking success
-Have patented a backwards compatibility emulation service
-Helped set up and fund Jade Raymond's new studio Haven, so she can become a prominent and free independent force in the industry and at the same time, we get a new exclusive from her and her team
-Have exclusivity deals on huge Japanese games such as Final Fantasy XVI, Forspoken and Ghostwire Tokyo
-Acquired huge Anime services that will bleed into their gaming division for more Japanese focused exclusives
-One of those recently was a partnership with Kadokawa and CyGames. Kadokawa owns From Software
-CyGames are working on a PlayStation exclusive called Granblue Fantasy Relink. It is a AAA, big budget JRPG featuring combat by Platinum Games and music by Final Fantasy composer Nobuo Uematsu - as a result of such deals
-These last few points fly in the face of ridiculous "Sony don't care about Japan" dramatisations
-Are currently working on a new VR that is their aim to usher this into the mainstream allowing them to be industry leader there too
-Have already said that they're working on something akin to Gamepass
-Allow their funded games to have full creative freedom
-This gives us things like Dreams, one of the most innovative and power-to-the-players IPs ever created
-They actually have next-gen games on their next-gen system
Sorry.....I guess I'm just remembering all the positive things Sony have done in recent times that deserve to be repeatedly posted as much as these drama feeding, site traffic seeking write ups have been lately.
I'm not being rude and I do enjoy this site, I also understand balance which I am all for, but there is such a thing as going too far to the negative end of the spectrum too.
All of Bloober Team's "horror" games have been distinctly average in my opinion. They have not shown the prowess needed to handle such a distinctly unique IP. The franchise needs to go back home to Japan and I'm hoping the rumours of just that being true are...well, true. If it does turn out to be Bloober Team I would be extremely disappointed (as will a lot of people) and probably abandon any such hope I've got for the franchise. The Medium was such a let down, nothing scary about it and I wasn't fooled by the so-called return to cinematic camera angles the game offered.
Either way, I just hope these rumours that are ever persistent are shot down or revealed officially soon.
Outside of showcasing the DualSense, Astrobot is a new Sony portfolio king. Rescue Mission was one of the very best PS4 exclusives. If this pre-installed, new installment to the Astrobot franchise is just as good then Sony have a new mascot-esque face to proudly shout about....which they're doing considering the look of the new console! Astrobot Rescue Mission (and I'm sure Playroom too) is a very confident rival to the current 3D platform champion - Mario....and that is one hell of a feat.
Considering Sony pretty much started up Level 5 back in the late 90's and Level 5 consequently gave Sony many hits (Dark Cloud, Rogue Galaxy, Ni No Kuni), I think these would be in the top 5, maybe top 3, of third party studios Sony should acquire. It might be a bit difficult considering Level 5's Nintendo presence with Yo-Kai Watch, Inazuma Eleven and Professor Layton, but the biggest point being that Sony basically set up the studio could overpower their Nintendo situation.
Level 5 could be Sony's very own Square Enix, their own AAA JRPG studio. It could fit, considering that's who they were to Sony back in the PS2 era (and early PS3 era with White Knight Chronicles). On the flip side to this, however, Sony have other huge third party JRPGS such as Final Fantasy XVI, Project Athia, Dragon Quest and Persona, so I doubt acquiring another giant company for a couple more of what they already have is going to be high up on the agenda.
Sony used to be the ones to localise their projects, so maybe Sony doesn't need to buy them in an acquisition, maybe they can give them a hand in some localisation areas or even fund their next few projects as exclusives which could have a very positive impact on Level 5 whilst maintaining their independence. Still.....it would be a nice full circle swing if Level 5 did come home to Sony.
Comments 34
Re: Interview: Falcom on The Legend of Heroes' Future, Bringing New Trails Games West, and More
One of the best JRPG franchises I've ever played. I can't wait for the next installments!
Well done in getting this interview. I enjoyed his answers and it's refreshing to see a CEO have this mindset in today's industry. Don't cater to audiences - create the games that you want to make. Love it.
Re: Elden Ring Has Sold a Staggering 12 Million Copies Worldwide Since Launch
Phenomenal success and excellent news.
I'm 90+hrs in and I think it's Miyazaki-san's fully realised vision for what he had with Souls. Having said that...it is essentially another Souls game in all but name. Same animations, same sounds, same combat, same systems, same fonts, same UX and same ancient game engine complete with the same shortcomings like clumsy AI and physics, all packaged as a new IP. Not a sequel...a NEW IP. This should invite criticism, even if he has perfected the formula and said formula is addicting and still fun.
We criticise SEQUELS that do this ala Assassin's Creed, CoD or Far Cry for example, but this isn't a sequel doing it - it's a supposed brand new IP doing it.
Sekiro had enough different to be called something new, so I thought that would be the same here, but it isn't. This should invite valid criticism.
The other mild criticism is that after playing the Demon's Souls Remake, you can feel how much of a step down Elden Ring is when it comes to the technical side of things. The graphics, performance, music production, sound design, etc is far superior on Demon's Souls. Yes, I understand that Demon's Souls Remake is a next (this) gen only game, but it's also because Sony have unmatched tech. It would be amazing if From Software got to use that tech with the know-how teams.
From need to shake things up. Elden should be the last game using this old technology. They need a new game engine and a big change to development of this subgenre.
They're my criticisms. Outside of them, this is the best rendition of his Souls vision yet with some of the best dark fantasy themes and visuals yet put to game.
With all that together, I can only go as high as an 8.5/10 (and that is very high).
Re: Mini Review: Shadow Warrior 3 (PS4) - A Very 2014 Shooter
It plays nothing like a 2014 shooter....that is the most ridiculous headline to a review I've seen in awhile. It's so inaccurate and random!
It's new old school. And the new old school shooter didn't come (back) into style until Doom 2016...and if anything, the game is more closely replicating Doom Eternal from 2020. Hilarious.
Re: Kao the Kangaroo Is Bouncing Back in PS5, PS4 Reboot
Looks absolutely brilliant. Wishlisted!
Re: Game of the Year: Best PS5, PS4 RPG of 2021
It would definitely be a Switch game if I could include them as they had Bravely Default II and more importantly, Shin Megami Tensei V. The latter is one of the best RPGs since Persona 5!
Re: Game of the Year: Best PS5, PS4 Story or Writing of 2021
Returnal.
Some of us prefer the Lynchian/Kubrick style of storytelling over a straightforward narrative. And in my opinion, Returnal had the most affecting, deep, enigmatic and get-under-your-skin narrative of any game this year for me. It had me thinking about it long after the credits, piecing it together as it digested slowly. Pure art.
Re: Talking Point: Is Sony Being Stingy with PS5's First-Party Pricing?
If the price allows for grander AAA experiences like only Sony can deliver and the £69 price is only exclusive to said AAA games then yes, I will still support it.
People forget that games in the 90's ala Megadrive (Genesis), N64 games, etc were £59.99. And then years later in the PS4/5 era, with inflation, games have dropped to £49.99, yet the budgets for said games has increased dramatically. That doesn't add up at all. We need to make sure the industry is sustainable if we want grand AAA experiences (and others) to thrive the way Sony's do.
Re: PS5 Will Use the DualSense to Optimise 3D Audio Through TV Speakers
Also, 3D Audio on a quality headset is absolutely outstanding. Mind-blowing even. Returnal is the best to use it so far - almost felt like I was in the Matrix and also convinced me that Returnal has the best sound design I've heard yet in a game.
Re: PS5 Will Use the DualSense to Optimise 3D Audio Through TV Speakers
Built-in TV speakers only or will it work with a Soundbar too? I really hope it does.
Re: Report: How PlayStation Is Failing Indie Developers
Sony: I started this indie *****. Is this the ***** thanks I get?
Also...it's funny how this is posted on the eve of a mostly indie showcase tomorrow. It might be the same indie teams that Sony donated $10 million to for covid relief last year....or it could be the Japanese indie Devs that Sony have donated to recently? Who knows.... anyway, Sony hates Indies.
Re: Random: PlayStation Fans Start Petition to Cancel Hideo Kojima's Rumoured Xbox Game
So....they want to take away his independence that he thought so hard for?
I know this represents very few Sony/Kojima diehards and was probably started as a joke, but Come on....we all know he prefers PlayStation and his success/audience will mostly be on PlayStation, but part of Sony's Moto is to give established creators the freedom to do what they want. Herman has also stated that they like to start up their studio in exchange for a game and then let them go wherever they want and strike whatever deals they please. And that's the correct moto. One I'm sure will have an everlasting effect in Kojima-san, Jade Raymond, etc and will always have them coming back to Sony due to said goodwill.
Chill.
Re: Konami Confirms Partnership with Bloober Team, Fuelling Silent Hill Rumours
Bloober Team and Silent Hill is not a combination I ever wanted to see. Going by their past works, they are not fit to do a Silent Hill. Bloober are not good at holding themselves back in favour of the subtle and suggestive, atmosphere and imagination. Their games have been amusement park haunted houses.
Furthermore, Silent Hill has failed in every single Western developer's hands. It is a Japanese game and should be back in Japanese hands. I take hope from the reaffirmed comment from VGC that there's another Silent Hill in development in Japan.
I can't take watching this franchise, one I absolutely adore, continue to be gutted and destroyed anymore.
Re: Sony Acquisition of Bluepoint Games Supposedly Leaked by Image Mistake
@Tarod1
The announcement of an acquisition usually comes long after they actually acquired them.
Re: This Abandoned and Blue Box Game Studio Thing Is Getting Out of Hand
@starbuck2212
I'm not fully onboard, as I said, but I do believe it is..... something! I also believe a Silent Hill game will be announced shortly.
Re: This Abandoned and Blue Box Game Studio Thing Is Getting Out of Hand
Konami's official merchandise Twitter has told questioning fans via DM that they should "hold tight and keep an eye on our Socials 🤫🤫🤫". The promotional image the account uses for the Silent Hill merchandise also uses font from the first four Silent Hill games for each two letters of the title...but the title is off centre with the image like it is missing a final letter....Furthermore, the PlayStation insider "The Nexus" on ResetEra had said that they are going to use their connections and put out some feelers and see what they can find....a day later, she came back to say "#TeamReal". After being asked about this comment and what pushed her to believe these theories, she sent one more reply saying "Get ready for Paradise". Paradise is a place promised by The Order in Silent Hill.
One of my fave go-to PlayStation news YouTubers, whom also helped kick off this conspiracy - MBG, also sent a DM to Blue Box asking for peace of mind and not too long after....his behaviour has completely shifted to not talking about the conspiracy directly and just saying he's "very excited" to hear more about Abandoned. He's also posting a couple of hints that seem to be saying "just wait", including a picture of Cliff from Death Stranding doing the "shh" motion.
These are just developments over the past 24hrs, nevermind the entire time this has been investigated and the mass amount of evidence found since then.
I believe that it is something. I definitely believe a new Silent Hill is about to be announced. I'm just not fully convinced Kojima will be at the helm (but then again, there's a lot of evidence to suggest he's up to something when it comes to Blue Box).
Something is definitely going on. It is exciting and real or not, has destroyed E3 lol. All eyes are on Sony...again.
Re: PS5 Is Probably Telling You to Charge Your Controller Way Too Early
Yes I have noticed this. Usually on Returnal. Because that game gets me into a bit of a hypnotic gameplay loop, I lose track of time. I usually get the low battery notification and then forget I received that notification 5 minutes later and continue playing. Not once has it switched off! I've continued gaming for a good 3-5hrs after and the controller has been alive and kicking.
Hopefully something that'll be addressed in a patch, but no big deal as is.
Re: Sony's London Studio Hiring for Brand New, Next-Gen IP for PS5
@iamtylerdurden1
Sent (HouseQuake)
Re: PlayStation Studios Boss Wants 'Distinct and Diverse' Range of Games, Sony Committed to Both AAA Quality and Experimentation
And there it is.
Re: Sony Sponsors Asobu, a Community Hub for Japanese Indies
Haha. Sony are responding quite heavily lately to the nonsensical, made up narratives about them, aren't they!
Re: Sony Partners with Veteran AAA Developers at Firewalk Studios to Create New Multiplayer Game
I don't do multiplayer, but I doubt it'll be similar to the games they've previously worked on. The reason I say that is because Sony has a Moto that they made clear not too long back that they want new ideas and not to take market share away from existing franchises with similar games. So I am curious at least!
Re: PlayStation Plus Video Pass Expands PS Plus with Movies and TV Shows, but Only in Poland for Now
Well of course I'll take it as it's no extra cost (I think?)....but I didn't ask for it. And therein is the problem. How many people who bought a PS5 will ask for it? I suppose it depends on content, but it is very wise for them to be testing it right now instead of fully implementing it.
This could be the start of something great/more if they keep adding things. I say keep the pressure on them, that means we get better toys!
Re: Jim Ryan: PS5 Generation Will Have More Exclusive Games 'Than Ever Before'
I have no issues with Mr Jim Ryan currently. I honestly believe he is simply (as he's already said) letting the games do the talking. I personally like this way, but I can understand the flip side too, especially for news sites such as this one.
I've been a fan of PlayStation since '94 and remember Mr Ryan throughout the years. We must remember that he spearheaded the movement to turn around the PS3's fortunes in Europe, ultimately allowing it to come out on top in the region and thus allowing the PS4 and PlayStation as a whole to begin its global dominance the following generation. I think based on that and his other achievements, he's an obvious go-to for a leadership candidate.
Although I understand certain speculative concerns such as him coming from a leading Marketing role, that he could be all about the numbers (and all leaders have to be to a large degree), I think it's way too early to be writing him off, I'm liking most of what the man is saying, especially in this new interview and his results are backing him up.
We'll see what happens. A critical eye is always healthy (the closure of the old stores), but constant bashings and calls for him to step down are completely unwarranted, especially considering his accolades as a veteran.
Can't wait for their next big gaming event. Just like their "Future of Gaming" event silenced those vocal critics back then, I'm confident they'll do it again. I do believe the competition will be fierce this time, though.
Re: Jim Ryan: PS5 Generation Will Have More Exclusive Games 'Than Ever Before'
@Ashina
I hear your concerns, but if I may, I politely assume you have been a little misguided by the recent and unfounded headlines/speculation rather than what's actually happening.
In the launch period for the PS5 alone (and concentrating on first party alone) you had:
*Spiderman Miles Morales - the AAA blockbuster
*Sackboy A Big Adventure - a 3D platformer
*Demon's Souls - a hardcore, niche RPG
*Astro's Playroom - an innovative tech showcase, 3D platformer
*Destruction All-Stars - the Arcade, multiplayer game
I also believe we are still in the launch period so let's add Returnal in there - the Super fast, Rogue-lite shoot em up mixed with Sony's trademark cinematic storytelling. And then we'll have Ratchet and Clank Rift Apart - a Pixar style, Action adventure/platformer game.
Based on actual evidence and not speculation, the exact opposite to your concerns is true. And remember, this was just the first party games. Sony's dedication to 3rd Party, more niche exclusives such as Bugsnax, Oddworld Soulstorm and Kena Bridge of Spirits have also been launched/to be launched soon.
I have no other conclusion to come to other than Sony are more diverse and "on it" than ever before. It's certainly the most diverse launch line up they've ever had.
We'll see if this winning streak continues. I have no doubts, however.
Re: Soapbox: I Don't Think Sony's Obsession with PS5 Blockbusters Aligns with Reality
Absolutely correct. I've been repeating this a bit too much this past two weeks. The online outrage is mostly fabricated, dramatised or completely untrue.
It's like certain people and gaming press have an agenda or a goldfish memory....or both!
There are more reasons you can add to this that would further point the opposite way the media is.
This is not to say there are no areas to keep an eye on with Sony, there is! But there were the previous generation and the generations before that. But lately, they have been completely blown out of proportion and no, we are not seeing another (early) PS3 era...not by lightyears!
Re: Sony's London Studio Hiring for Brand New, Next-Gen IP for PS5
@Alan_cartridge_
Completely agree. Kiss my face!
Re: Sony's London Studio Hiring for Brand New, Next-Gen IP for PS5
@iamtylerdurden1
Absolutely spot on. It's nice to see there are others who see through the nonsensical propaganda.
Re: Sony's London Studio Hiring for Brand New, Next-Gen IP for PS5
The Getaway!
I'd prefer a brand new IP, but a reboot of The Getaway, complete with multiplayer would be an absolutely huge hit in today's GTA dominated world. But I think it'll be a new IP because Sony have already stated that they don't want to steal any market share from any existing dominators with their whole "First, best, must" philosophy.
Very exciting nonetheless.
Re: Days Gone 2 Not Given the Greenlight, Sony Bend Working on Something New
@get2sammyb
Not necessarily - they greenlighted an extremely niche game, Demon's Souls as a launch title for their new console (and if rumours are to be believed, want to make a big budget film out of this niche game too!). I'm optimistic that they're still going to take risks and fund original and unique ideas as AAA releases. Let's not forget the recent Jade Raymond Deal too. Or how Abandoned just got a big spotlight on their platform and how Media Molecule have stated that Sony are providing big finds and support to further their Dreams IP?
A lot of dramatisation going on lately.
Re: Days Gone 2 Not Given the Greenlight, Sony Bend Working on Something New
I disagree. Although a good game and one that has/had mass commercial appeal (hence it selling well despite lukewarm reception), it is a game that is wholly unoriginal and just kind of halted Sony's first party, innovative output with a cookie-cutter release like Days Gone (again, as much as I liked it). I think Days Gone was greenlighted very early on, perhaps before the zombie craze became what it did, because the game had a unique hoard mechanic and that probably made Sony excited at the time of the greenlight, but by the time it came out, it was very unoriginal. That's my personal take on it.
I'm happy that they're working on something new as I want new ideas over sequels and remakes, but what I am "concerned" about is how much credence Naughty Dog are getting with anything they want to do. Sony were about giving creatives complete creative freedom, they had a stellar reputation for this and I'd like to see that continue and based on evidence, they are....but there is an apparent restructure going on at the same time and that's always worthy of a watchful eye.
Re: The Last of Us Is Getting a PS5 Remake Eight Years After Release, Claims Report
Completely unneeded. I can understand it from a business perspective absolutely, but this is completely unneeded as the original holds up just fine.
I feel the same way about the rumoured Resi 4 remake.
If this report is to be believed, I am pleased to hear Sony Bend are working on something new and not Days Gone 2. IF this report is to be believed. I prefer original ideas as opposed to sequels and remakes.
Either way, mixed feelings on a whole.
Re: Around 2,200 Digital Games on the Chopping Block When Sony Closes PS3, PS Vita, PSP Stores
I love that Sony are:
-Giving away ten free games that require no subscription at all currently, in order to encourage us staying home and safe.
-This free games list is not finished!
-Have consistently delivered an unmatched PS+ selection this year
-On PS5, have a PS+ Collection which includes some of the biggest games of the last generation at no extra cost
-Have donated to current world issues charities recently and actively seek to end said issues, at least within the industry
-Have given their staff unmatched bonuses equivalent to 7 months wages for a job well done on PS5's enormous and record breaking success
-Have patented a backwards compatibility emulation service
-Helped set up and fund Jade Raymond's new studio Haven, so she can become a prominent and free independent force in the industry and at the same time, we get a new exclusive from her and her team
-Have exclusivity deals on huge Japanese games such as Final Fantasy XVI, Forspoken and Ghostwire Tokyo
-Acquired huge Anime services that will bleed into their gaming division for more Japanese focused exclusives
-One of those recently was a partnership with Kadokawa and CyGames. Kadokawa owns From Software
-CyGames are working on a PlayStation exclusive called Granblue Fantasy Relink. It is a AAA, big budget JRPG featuring combat by Platinum Games and music by Final Fantasy composer Nobuo Uematsu - as a result of such deals
-These last few points fly in the face of ridiculous "Sony don't care about Japan" dramatisations
-Are currently working on a new VR that is their aim to usher this into the mainstream allowing them to be industry leader there too
-Have already said that they're working on something akin to Gamepass
-Allow their funded games to have full creative freedom
-This gives us things like Dreams, one of the most innovative and power-to-the-players IPs ever created
-They actually have next-gen games on their next-gen system
Sorry.....I guess I'm just remembering all the positive things Sony have done in recent times that deserve to be repeatedly posted as much as these drama feeding, site traffic seeking write ups have been lately.
I'm not being rude and I do enjoy this site, I also understand balance which I am all for, but there is such a thing as going too far to the negative end of the spectrum too.
Re: Bloober Team Working on a Horror Game with a 'Very Famous Gaming Publisher'
All of Bloober Team's "horror" games have been distinctly average in my opinion. They have not shown the prowess needed to handle such a distinctly unique IP.
The franchise needs to go back home to Japan and I'm hoping the rumours of just that being true are...well, true. If it does turn out to be Bloober Team I would be extremely disappointed (as will a lot of people) and probably abandon any such hope I've got for the franchise. The Medium was such a let down, nothing scary about it and I wasn't fooled by the so-called return to cinematic camera angles the game offered.
Either way, I just hope these rumours that are ever persistent are shot down or revealed officially soon.
Re: Hands On: Astro's Playroom Is an Extraordinary Demonstration of DualSense
Outside of showcasing the DualSense, Astrobot is a new Sony portfolio king.
Rescue Mission was one of the very best PS4 exclusives. If this pre-installed, new installment to the Astrobot franchise is just as good then Sony have a new mascot-esque face to proudly shout about....which they're doing considering the look of the new console!
Astrobot Rescue Mission (and I'm sure Playroom too) is a very confident rival to the current 3D platform champion - Mario....and that is one hell of a feat.
Re: Ni no Kuni Dev Level-5 Reportedly All But Ceases NA Operations
Considering Sony pretty much started up Level 5 back in the late 90's and Level 5 consequently gave Sony many hits (Dark Cloud, Rogue Galaxy, Ni No Kuni), I think these would be in the top 5, maybe top 3, of third party studios Sony should acquire.
It might be a bit difficult considering Level 5's Nintendo presence with Yo-Kai Watch, Inazuma Eleven and Professor Layton, but the biggest point being that Sony basically set up the studio could overpower their Nintendo situation.
Level 5 could be Sony's very own Square Enix, their own AAA JRPG studio. It could fit, considering that's who they were to Sony back in the PS2 era (and early PS3 era with White Knight Chronicles).
On the flip side to this, however, Sony have other huge third party JRPGS such as Final Fantasy XVI, Project Athia, Dragon Quest and Persona, so I doubt acquiring another giant company for a couple more of what they already have is going to be high up on the agenda.
Sony used to be the ones to localise their projects, so maybe Sony doesn't need to buy them in an acquisition, maybe they can give them a hand in some localisation areas or even fund their next few projects as exclusives which could have a very positive impact on Level 5 whilst maintaining their independence.
Still.....it would be a nice full circle swing if Level 5 did come home to Sony.