Scalebound Director Kamiya Criticizes Microsoft’s Rush on Games

PlatinumGames director Hideki Kamiya has reopened old wounds. He discussed the high-profile cancellation of Scalebound. The action RPG was axed by Microsoft in 2017.

Kamiya suggests a cultural divide was a key factor. He believes a Japanese publisher may have handled development differently. This insight comes from a recent VideoGamesChronicle interview.

Kamiya Highlights Publisher Philosophy Divide

Kamiya detailed a stark contrast in publishing approaches. He described Japanese publishers as more patient and understanding. They appreciate the creative struggle of birthing new ideas.

Western publishers, he implied, prioritize speed and final products. According to his account, Microsoft wanted a finished game quickly. This pressure clashed with the project’s ambitious, untested nature.

The director acknowledged his own responsibility for the failure. Developing simultaneous dragon and human gameplay was a huge technical hurdle. PlatinumGames had no prior framework for this complex mechanic.

Scalebound’s Legacy and Kamiya’s Future

The cancellation remains a sore subject for the veteran developer. He has expressed a desire to revive the project multiple times. This latest interview provides his clearest explanation yet.

Kamiya claims the experience was a valuable lesson. He now feels better equipped to collaborate with Western partners. His future work may benefit from this hard-earned perspective.

The renowned creator has moved on to a new venture. He is currently leading development on a sequel to Ōkami at his studio, Clovers. This project is being developed for Capcom.

The Scalebound saga underscores the challenges of global game development. Cultural expectations can significantly impact creative projects. Hideki Kamiya’s reflections offer a rare glimpse into a famously secretive industry.

Thought you’d like to know

Why was Scalebound cancelled?

Development faced significant technical challenges. The simultaneous control of a dragon and a human character was unprecedented. According to Reuters, publisher Microsoft ultimately lost confidence.

Who is Hideki Kamiya?

He is a legendary game director known for titles like Bayonetta and Devil May Cry. He co-founded PlatinumGames after working at Capcom. Kamiya is celebrated for his stylish action game design.

Could Scalebound ever be revived?

Kamiya has publicly stated he would love to resurrect the project. However, the intellectual property is likely owned by Microsoft. Any revival would require Microsoft’s approval and involvement.

What is Kamiya working on now?

He is directing a sequel to the acclaimed game Ōkami. This project is in development at his new studio, Clovers. The game is being made for publisher Capcom.