This extensive interview delves into the creation of FuRyu's action RPG, Reynatis, slated for Western release on September 27th. We hear from Creative Producer TAKUMI, Scenario Writer Kazushige Nojima, and Composer Yoko Shimomura. TAKUMI discusses the game's development, inspirations, and the collaborative process, while Nojima and Shimomura offer insights into their contributions.

TAKUMI, a director and producer at FuRyu, details his role in conceptualizing, producing, and directing Reynatis. He expresses his delight at the overwhelmingly positive international response, noting significantly higher engagement from Western audiences than within Japan. He credits the game's appeal to fans of Tetsuya Nomura's works, particularly Final Fantasy and Kingdom Hearts, acknowledging the game's inspiration from Final Fantasy Versus XIII's initial trailer without direct replication. He emphasizes Reynatis's unique identity as his own creation.

TAKUMI addresses the Japanese reception, highlighting the enthusiasm from fans of Nomura's style and their engagement with the narrative. He also acknowledges the positive feedback on the gameplay, a hallmark of FuRyu titles. He confirms planned updates to address balancing and quality-of-life improvements, assuring Western players will receive a refined version.

The interview explores the collaborative process, revealing TAKUMI's direct approach to contacting Shimomura and Nojima, utilizing informal communication methods like Twitter and LINE. He shares his personal admiration for their works, citing Kingdom Hearts and various Final Fantasy titles as key influences.

TAKUMI discusses the game's development timeline (approximately three years), navigating the challenges of the pandemic through effective remote collaboration. He highlights the planned updates and DLC releases, emphasizing the polished Western release. The collaboration with Square Enix for NEO: The World Ends with You elements is detailed, showcasing TAKUMI's proactive and direct approach.

The discussion touches upon the platform selection, with the Nintendo Switch as the lead platform, acknowledging the technical demands on the system. TAKUMI clarifies FuRyu's internal exploration of PC development, and the reasons behind the multi-platform release strategy. He also addresses the lack of Xbox releases, citing low consumer demand in Japan and the development team's lack of experience with the platform as key factors.

The interview concludes with TAKUMI's excitement for the Western release, emphasizing the unspoiled experience due to simultaneous global DLC releases. He expresses hope for future art books and soundtracks, but confirms no current plans. He shares his personal gaming preferences, recent titles played, and favorite projects, ultimately highlighting Reynatis as his most cherished work. The interview also includes brief responses from Yoko Shimomura and Kazushige Nojima regarding their involvement, creative processes, and personal preferences.

The interview concludes with TAKUMI's message to potential players, emphasizing the game's powerful theme of overcoming societal pressures and finding one's voice. He invites those feeling stifled or marginalized to experience Reynatis's resonant message.