Looki looki Interview:

Former Square producer Kouichi Ishii, most recently known for his work on Final Fantasy XI, is spearheading the development of the latest installment in the Seiken Densetsu (Secret of Mana) series on the GameBoy Advance. Being developed through upstart studio Brownie Brown, the game is expected to largely build upon elements of the original. As Ishii-san recently revealed in an interview with Dorimag however, the game will also boast some intriguing new elements.

Question: How did development on Shinyaku Seiken Densetsu come about?

Ishii-san: We began going through all the letters from the fans requesting another installment in the series, and I felt the time was right. Thereafter, I held a meeting with the staff and everyone agreed. Even though we're working independently from Square we realize how important the series is to the fans, and we want it to be very successful.

Question: You've recently released early screens from the game, how far along is development?

Ishii-san: Most aspects of the game have already been decided. Now its just a matter of putting things together and balancing the gameplay. It should be ready for release this summer. If I had to put a numerical value on its current stage of completion, I'd say about 40 percent.




Question: What can we expect in Shinyaku Seiken Densetsu?

Ishii-san: There will be some new elements, but much of the game is based on the original Seiken Densetsu. However, players can expect non-playable characters from other games such as Legend of Mana to appear.

Question: Will the gameplay system be similar to the last installment in the series?

Ishii-san: No, it will be more reminiscent of the original. Most people identified with the simplistic charm of that gameplay system, and we thought it was best to recapture the original feel.

Question: Can you explain the main theme of the game?

Ishii-san: In many ways, I think it's similar to Legend of Mana. Many people didn't understand the storyline when they first played the game, especially as children. But as they matured, I think they began to understand the story and the hero. There's a separation between man and nature. But themes have been a topic I've tried to avoid discussing because younger players might not fully grasp the concepts. It will be a unique experience, that's why we've entitled the game Shinyaku Seiken Densetsu - it's truly something 'new.'




Question: Any problems with developing the game for the GameBoy Advance?

Ishii-san: Yes, I think the game will be perceived as being geared towards children. I remember, even being a younger player myself, the desire to play games which were intended for adults.

Question: What will the actual gameplay system be like? You've said it will be simplistic, can you elaborate on that?

Ishii-san: I think players will enjoy the basic action elements from previous chapters in the series. But we hope to appeal to older players with new elements such as team battle.

Question: Looking back, what are your thoughts on 2002?

Ishii-san: Since I worked on Final Fantasy XI, that took up most of the first half of the year for me. As the year went by we held a series of managerial meetings regarding ideas for new projects. Eventually, after talking with people both in and outside Square, we decided it was best that a separate company be formed to develop games like Shinyaku Seiken Densetsu, and that's how Brownie Brown was started.

Question: What's your dream scenario for 2003?

Ishii-san: I'm not sure I have a dream. After all, some dreams are never finished.

-- Translation Asst. Tsuno Okashi