The Yakuza Like a Dragon development team embraces constructive conflict to create superior games. According to a recent Automaton interview with series director Ryosuke Horii, internal disagreements are not only common at Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, but actively encouraged.
Horii emphasizes that these "in-fights," particularly between designers and programmers, are vital for producing high-quality results. He explains that a planner's role is to mediate these disputes, ensuring they lead to positive resolutions. "A lukewarm product results from a lack of debate," Horii stated, adding that "fights are always welcome," as long as they result in tangible improvements.
The studio's approach centers on meritocracy, evaluating ideas based on their quality rather than their origin. Horii highlights their willingness to engage in robust discussions and even "mercilessly" reject substandard concepts. This commitment to rigorous debate and high standards ensures the final product benefits from the team's collective passion and critical assessment. The team's internal battles, mirroring the game's themes, ultimately contribute to the overall success of the Like a Dragon franchise.
