Yakuza Devs Promote In-Game Fights and Confrontation

In an insightful interview with Automaton, the developers behind Like a Dragon have shed light on the unique dynamics within their team, revealing how embracing healthy arguments and internal conflicts contribute to crafting superior games.

Like a Dragon Studio's In-Fighting Fuels Better Game Development

Embracing the Fiery Spirit of Like a Dragon

Ryosuke Horii, the esteemed series director of the Like a Dragon/Yakuza franchise, disclosed that internal disagreements among team members at Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio are not just common—they're actively encouraged as a means to enhance game quality.

During a candid discussion with Automaton, Horii was questioned about the frequency of disputes within the studio. He confirmed that conflicts are indeed frequent, but emphasized that these "in-fighting" scenarios are far from detrimental. "When a designer and a programmer clash, it becomes the planner's role to mediate," Horii stated, highlighting the potential for such disputes to be constructive.

"Without heated debates and discussions, our final product would merely be lukewarm. Therefore, we always welcome these fights," Horii elaborated. He stressed the importance of ensuring these conflicts lead to beneficial outcomes. "Arguments are futile if they don't culminate in positive results. It's the planner's responsibility to steer everyone towards a productive resolution. It's all about engaging in healthy and fruitful confrontations."

Horii also noted that the studio's teams "fight to the same beat," emphasizing a collaborative approach to conflict. "We evaluate ideas based on their merit, not on the team that proposed them," he explained. Simultaneously, the studio remains unafraid to reject subpar suggestions. "We are quick to 'mercilessly' dismiss poor ideas, ensuring our debates and 'battles' are always geared towards creating an exceptional game."