Yakuza: True to Form, Devs Promote Conflict and Clashes

A recent interview with Automaton reveals the unique team dynamics at Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, the creators of the Like a Dragon/Yakuza series. The developers embrace healthy debate and even "in-fighting" as crucial elements in crafting high-quality games.

Like a Dragon Studio: Internal Conflict Fuels Creative Fire

Passionate Debate: The Dragon's Breath

Series director Ryosuke Horii shared that internal disagreements are not just common at Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, but actively encouraged. These "fights," Horii clarifies, are a constructive force in the development process. He explains that a planner's role is to mediate between conflicting designers and programmers, guiding the debate towards a positive resolution.

"Without arguments and discussions," Horii stated, "the final product would be lackluster. Therefore, we welcome conflict." The key, he emphasizes, is ensuring these disagreements result in improvements. "A fight is pointless without a productive outcome. The planner's job is to steer everyone toward a beneficial conclusion. It's all about healthy, productive conflict."

Horii also highlighted the studio's collaborative approach to conflict. Ideas are judged on merit, not origin. "We evaluate suggestions based on their quality, regardless of the team proposing them," he explained. However, this open environment doesn't preclude rejecting substandard ideas. "We also ruthlessly discard poor concepts," he added, "meaning debates and 'battles' are essential for creating a superior game."