In this week's interview, I talk with Japanese indie game developer Hekiraku-ya about the design challenges and development cycle of their first game, ITOYUI. An early demo of the game was initially released at Comiket 91, while a newer version with more features was released at Comiket 92. This interview took place over a few weeks just prior to and after C92.
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9/22/2017 0 Comments ITOYUI Game Review (C91 ver)
A Horror-Themed SPRG In Initial Development
Gameplay Video
Game Review
ITOYUI is a short one-stage SRPG that first appeared at C91. This version is basically a proof-of-concept that demonstrates the atmosphere of the game, its style, and future features. An updated version that includes expanded features was released at C92.
In the C91 version of ITOYUI, players battle a few monsters by summoning allies of their own. There are three types of allies to summon, and they are the only way the player can attack enemies -- the main character cannot directly attack.
The enemies are made of yarn and summoned allies reminiscent of marionettes, hinting, possibly, at the overall aesthetic of the game. As there's nothing outside of this one stage, however, this is pure speculation, although my interview with the developer suggests something like this through the other, yet to be implemented, abilities of the main character.
The C91 demo is short, but I certainly plan on playing the C92 demo to see where the game is going.
Where we talk about exeCUTE's members and their roles, what places Japanese indie developers can showcase their games, and the Comiket application procedure
An ARPG with a Musou Feel
Rasetsu: Legend of the Demon Seal is an ARPG that plays like Ys and spawns monsters like a musou game. The demo released at C91 has quite a few developed stages, making it much longer than most other demos commonly found there. Based on this, my video review this week is a mixture of real-time gameplay and selected scenes with commentary.
Gameplay Video
Old School Platformer Meets Yuri
Gameplay Video
Game Review
My Name is a side-scrolling platformer with mechanics reminiscent of old school classics like the original Rygar or Wizards and Warriors. As of this demo, the story is almost non existent; as much as I can gather the female protagonist is trying to get her memories back.
Where we discusses participating at Comiket and how to sell there, challenges in promoting their games, and advice for budding developers
This week's interview is with Picorinne Soft, a development team that consists of two brothers. They have released a few games over the years, with the most notable being the arcade style Infinos series. In Part 1 of the interview, we talk about their latest demo, Infinos Gaiden.
7/28/2017 0 Comments Infinos Gaiden Gameplay and Review
Old-School Shoot-Em-Up Arcade Goodness
Game Overview
This short demo was designed to be reminiscent of old-school arcade games, and draws influence from titles such as Gradius and R-Type.
Because demos tend to be short, I've decided to approach reviewing them differently. Instead of putting together highlights with commentary as I have done with past reviews, I'll simply provide commentary and reactions as I play the game. Game Review Video
7/21/2017 0 Comments Magical X Spiral Game Review
A Vertical Platformer with RPG Elements
Game Overview
A video review of the Japanese indie game Magical x Spiral by developer Broken Desk. The game was picked up at Comiket 91, although I hear it is now available on Steam with an English translation. I've reached out to the developers for an interview, but have heard nothing back. If I do, I'll be sure to update accordingly.
Video Review
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