In a revealing interview with Automaton, the developers of Like a Dragon shared insights into their unique team dynamics and how embracing healthy arguments and in-fighting leads to superior game quality.
Like a Dragon Studio In-Fighting Helps Them Make Better Games
Fiery Grit, Grit, and Grit Just Like a Dragon
Ryosuke Horii, the series director of the Like a Dragon/Yakuza franchise, disclosed that internal conflicts at Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio are not only common but are actively encouraged as a means to enhance their games.
During his discussion with Automaton, Horii confirmed that disagreements among the team are frequent. However, he emphasized that these "in-fightings" are far from detrimental. "If a designer and a programmer are at odds, it's the planner's role to mediate," Horii stated, highlighting the potential for constructive outcomes from such disputes.
"Without arguments or discussions, you'll end up with a mediocre product. Therefore, we always welcome these fights," he added. The key, according to Horii, is to ensure these conflicts lead to positive results. "Fighting is pointless if it doesn't yield a beneficial outcome, so it's crucial for the planner to guide the team towards a productive resolution. It's all about fostering healthy and effective confrontations."
Horii further explained that the studio's approach is to "fight to the same beat" rather than shying away from conflict. "We evaluate ideas based on their merit, not on who proposed them," he noted. The studio also ensures rigorous standards by rejecting subpar suggestions. "We are unapologetic about dismissing poor ideas, which fuels our debates and 'battles' to create an exceptional game."
