Ueda On Last Guardian: Pressure, Emotion, Inspiration

The Last Guardian

The Last Guardian remains one of the most anticipated PlayStation 3 games of the generation. This means that when the mastermind behind the project speaks, we tend to listen.

Team ICO guru Fumito Ueda answered a few questions at Electronic Theatre recently, and he spoke a little about the intended audience, emotional attachment, and the pressure of "not wanting to disappoint everybody." Considering the wait and the legacy of ICO and Shadow of the Colossus, it's true that many are expecting something super special, and it's clear that Ueda understands. When asked if he's glad that he can finally lift the veil and reveal the project, he says, "I am glad. But more than that, I regret that I kept everybody waiting." And then adds that he feels "a certain pressure and I will do my best not to disappoint everybody." He went on to talk about the creative process a bit:

"First of all, with respect to the gameplay, we slowed down the pace to focus our efforts on narrative production and the polishing of each level. ICO and Shadow of the Colossus were well received by many gamers. However, we felt that there were people out there who the games didn't reach, the kind of people who wouldn’t usually play games, and so, to appeal to these people, we set our theme on animals and their habitats."

As for the gameplay, Ueda confirms that it'll be very dynamic and even realistic in a way, as the boy's interactions with that gigantic mystical creature will be...well, exactly as you'd expect them to be; i.e., exactly how a little human boy might try to communicate with a mammoth - seemingly friendly - animal.

"The boy must guide the creature, never being entirely sure whether his intentions are understood, and bearing in mind its surroundings and personality. Under the boy's guidance, the creature will display extraordinary abilities."

Ueda also confirmed they would take PlayStation Move and 3D compatibility "into consideration" for the game. Lastly, he says the reason they "don't use numbers" in their titles is because they want to reach new players with every new project, which we find to be an impressive approach. Considering that sequels and franchises usually guarantee financial success (provided the games are good, of course), most developers go this route. But not these guys.

Oh, and make sure to read up on the emotional aspect and how "all expressions must be believable." This game should be amazing.

Related Game(s): The Last Guardian

Tags: the last guardian, fumito ueda, team ico, last guardian info

11/10/2010 10:47:53 AM Ben Dutka

Put this on your webpage or blog:
Email this to a friend
Follow PSX Extreme on Twitter