Naoki Hamaguchi Expresses Desire to Develop a Game Inspired by Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

Naoki Hamaguchi’s Aspirations for Game Development

The director of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, Naoki Hamaguchi, has recently expressed his enthusiasm for several upcoming projects in 2025. Notably, he has confirmed that the development of Final Fantasy VII Remake Part 3 is progressing remarkably well. Alongside this, he has spotlighted Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 as his top contender for Game of the Year.

A Vision for Double-A Game Development

During an insightful interview, Hamaguchi elaborated on the challenges and intricacies of creating triple-A games. He stated, “Whatever direction you look at it, whatever element you take, it’s a very high quality.”This statement reflects the vast resources and meticulous planning that go into large-scale productions.

In contrast, Hamaguchi advocates for the advantages of developing double-A titles. He believes that these smaller games can hone in on a specific aspect of gameplay, allowing for innovation and depth in that particular area. He remarked, “I would love to try and make a game like that [AA], which is really focused on one area, pushing the boat out, and making that one aspect as fun as possible.”

The Reality of Game Development Roles

Despite his eagerness to explore this double-A concept, Hamaguchi acknowledges the limitations imposed by his current role at Square Enix. He noted, “Fulfilling my desire to make this smaller-scoped game would only work if I completely ignored the reality of it—specifically the position I have in the company, the expectations set upon me, and the financial commitments required for game development.”

Potential for Unique Creations

While Hamaguchi’s current obligations may hinder his ability to pursue his ambition for a more focused game, the prospect of him and his team applying their creativity within a double-A framework is intriguing. It raises questions about the innovation that could emerge when talented developers are allowed the freedom to experiment with smaller, more concentrated projects.

As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see how figures like Hamaguchi contribute to the industry, possibly leading to groundbreaking experiences in both triple-A and double-A realms.

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