Katamari Creator No Fan of Revolution

Keita Takahashi and Nintendo might well have the same goals, but the affable creator isn't lining up behind Nintendo quite yet.

Japanese game creator Keita Takahashi has done what few developers have been able to do: he's made a name for himself after just one game, that being the widely acclaimed Katamari Damacy. The game was hailed for its fresh approach to gameplay, something Nintendo is striving for with the Revolution, but Takahashi doesn't think Nintendo is on the right track.

"I'm not really interested in it. I don't think a controller should have that much influence on the enjoyment of games," Takahashi told Game Developer magazine at the recent Game Developers Conference.

"I see what [Nintendo is] trying to do, but they're putting such emphasis on the controller - 'Whoa, this controller lets you do this!' and I'm thinking, 'Are you messing with us?'"

Many people have reservations about the Revolution and its motion-sensing controller because of fears that Nintendo will rely on gimmicks rather than good gameplay.

Nintendo has fired back that to truly appreciate what's possible, people need to get their hands on the controller. The company also insists that while it will try to bring new gamers into the fold, it will still provide the Marios and Zeldas so loved by gamers.

So who will be right? Takahashi has been quiet about his plans after leaving the Katamari series. There's even been talk that he would start creating children's playgrounds. Meanwhile Nintendo will entertain the faithful at its pre-show briefing at E3 next month.

Alex Wollenschlaeger
Editor, Kikizo Games