Interview with REYNATIS Developers

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

TAKUMI, director and producer at FuRyu, shares the genesis of Reynatis, emphasizing his role in conceptualization, production, and direction. He expresses delight at the game's overwhelmingly positive reception, particularly from Western audiences, noting it surpasses the buzz surrounding previous FuRyu titles. The Japanese response is also positive, with fans of Tetsuya Nomura's work (Final Fantasy, Kingdom Hearts) particularly engaged.

The influence of Final Fantasy Versus XIII's trailer is addressed. While acknowledging the sensitivity of the topic, TAKUMI confirms the trailer served as inspiration, emphasizing that Reynatis is a wholly original creation, a personal expression of his creative vision, rather than a derivative work.

TAKUMI discusses the game's development, acknowledging areas for improvement addressed through post-launch updates focusing on balancing and quality-of-life features. He assures Western players will receive a refined version compared to the Japanese release. The interview then shifts to the collaborative process with Nojima and Shimomura, revealing a surprisingly informal approach, utilizing direct messaging and personal connections rather than formal company channels.

TAKUMI details the inspirations behind choosing Nojima and Shimomura, citing his lifelong fandom of their work in Kingdom Hearts and Final Fantasy series. He also discusses his approach to game design, balancing the need for broad appeal with his creative vision. The development timeline (approximately three years) and the challenges of navigating the pandemic are also discussed.

The collaboration with Square Enix for the NEO: The World Ends With You crossover is explained, highlighting TAKUMI's proactive and direct approach. He discusses his love for the World Ends With You series and his determination to secure the collaboration despite initial skepticism.

The interview covers platform choices, acknowledging the Switch as the lead platform while recognizing its limitations. The possibility of future internal PC development in Japan is discussed, along with the current partnership with NIS America for Western console releases. TAKUMI shares his perspective on the differences between console and PC gaming markets in Japan.

The conversation touches upon future smartphone ports, with TAKUMI stating that FuRyu's focus remains on console games, considering smartphone ports only if the experience remains intact. The lack of Xbox releases is addressed, citing low consumer demand in Japan and the development challenges involved.

TAKUMI expresses excitement for Western players to experience Reynatis, highlighting the planned DLC releases to enhance longevity and prevent spoilers. The possibility of future art books and soundtracks is discussed. TAKUMI shares his personal gaming experiences, including Tears of the Kingdom, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, and Jedi Survivor.

The interview concludes with reflections on TAKUMI's career, his preference for iced tea over coffee, and a message to potential players: Reynatis offers a powerful message of self-acceptance and resilience against societal pressures.

The email exchange with Yoko Shimomura and Kazushige Nojima provides further insight into their involvement, creative processes, and inspirations. Shimomura discusses her composition style and the challenges of adapting to technological advancements. Nojima shares his approach to storytelling and his thoughts on Reynatis's narrative. The interview concludes with everyone's coffee preferences.

You can find more interviews on TouchArcade.