Kazuma Kaneko, renowned artist behind iconic Shin Megami Tensei and Persona series, has finally shed light on his journey from Atlus to mobile game development. In a recent interview with CGworld, the industry veteran revealed that he left Atlus nearly 10 years ago, eager to explore new horizons in the ever-evolving world of mobile gaming.
A New Chapter Unfolds
Kaneko's departure from Atlus marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter in his career. Before joining COLOPL, he briefly worked with another game company, where he struggled to get projects off the ground. "I don't know much about other game companies," Kaneko humbly admitted. However, this experience ultimately led him to seek out a job-hunting agency, which connected him with COLOPL just hours after registration.
A Passion for Mobile
Kaneko's fascination with mobile gaming dates back to the early days of the iPhone. "When I first saw the iPhone, I thought, 'This is crazy'." He marveled at the device's potential, seeing it as a "portable PC" that could revolutionize the gaming landscape. As he delved deeper into the world of mobile games, Kaneko realized that his console game background limited his creative scope. He yearned to create games that leveraged network connectivity and cutting-edge smartphone technology.
Finding His True Calling
Kaneko's desire for a new environment where he could freely pursue mobile game development ultimately led him to COLOPL. Once onboard, he was given the opportunity to launch his own project – Tsukuyomi: The Divine Hunter, which started as an RPG and evolved into a roguelike deckbuilder with generative AI elements. This innovative title is now available on PC, iOS, and Android.
Embracing the Future
As Kaneko looks back on his journey, he reflects on the value of taking risks and embracing change. His decision to venture into mobile game development has been met with excitement and curiosity from fans and industry professionals alike. With COLOPL, Kaneko is poised to make a lasting impact in the world of mobile gaming, bringing his unique artistic vision to the forefront.