Yuji Naka interview by Kikizo (June 24, 2004)

From Sonic Retro

This is a interview conducted by the website Kikizo, with Yuji Naka. This interview takes place in 2004 Sometime after the release of Sonic Heroes a DS Sonic game is mentioned, it probably is referring to the cancelled Sonic game Sonic DS.

The Interview

Kikizo: Are there any developments with any plans for NiGHTS 2, as rumours continue to be persistent?

Yuji Naka: Basically, what you mentioned with Astro Boy is that it offers a similar experience to NiGHTS, so just play Astro Boy first and see what it's like - with the 3D maps and everything - and then you can think of something that could be fitted into NiGHTS 2!

Kikizo: On to Sega SuperStars for EyeToy. Obviously the concept originated in Europe but you're working on the title yourself. What was your initial reaction to the concept?

Yuji Naka: Well as you know EyeToy is a big hit in Europe, obviously because of the camera features. For Sega to release something for EyeToy, we thought about something that would be fun and that collaborates multi characters, and all kinds of different styles of gameplay that take advantage of the camera features. And it worked out that for Sega SuperStars I was the one to represent the collaboration of Sega's entire range. I think it will be really popular with fans.

Kikizo: How do you see yourselves taking advantage of Nintendo DS and PSP?

Yuji Naka: So as you know we will be releasing Sonic for DS and Puyo Pop for PSP, but both platforms really have great advantages and strengths, so it's important for titles to take advantage of those features properly.

Kikizo: Do you think you'll be moving away from the same-game-on-two-platforms thing, or will you be tailoring future Sonic titles to suit the features of each format - and if so how will Sonic DS take advantage of the dual screen feature?

Yuji Naka: Definitely, game titles will be tailored for each platform. This includes EyeToy too. We are thinking about the new possibilities of EyeToy, Nintendo DS and PSP. But we're thinking that some titles can still be released on many more platforms.

I had a new impression of Nintendo DS when I had the chance to see the touch panel feature. As DS was presented to all the game creators we all thought about the new possibilities for upcoming titles. This brand new device has a lot of cool new possibilities for the new Sonic title. With touch panel, there is a lot you can do - you can slide on it, or just touch it and hit it, or whatever - and a lot of this will suit Sonic DS.

Kikizo: As a game developer, which new handheld platform do you find more exciting, Nintendo DS or PSP?

Yuji Naka: Well I would say both of course. While the Nintendo DS offers touch panels, the wireless features of both entices gamers to play together more

Kikizo: The Sonic Adventure series is obviously finished, and Sonic Heroes is a brand new series - will it continue and if so in what direction?

Yuji Naka: Well Sonic is obviously a major series and a major character for Sega, that we're going to continuing creating, and opening up possibilities for new gameplay styles.