Sega Rejects Initial Pitches for Yakuza Series, Creator Reveals
The Yakuza series, now known as Like a Dragon, has become a fan-favorite among gamers. However, the creator of the series, Toshihiro Nagoshi, recently revealed that Sega initially rejected his pitches for the game. Nagoshi explained that Sega was struggling to release globally successful games in the early 2000s, leading to a mindset of creating games that would appeal to the masses. His first proposal for the Yakuza series was flat out rejected as it did not cater to children, women, or overseas audiences. Despite facing resistance, Nagoshi eventually got the series approved after multiple attempts. The global popularity of the Yakuza series came later, with Nagoshi no longer at Sega but leaving the series in the hands of Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio.
Yakuza Creator Shares Insights on Sega’s Initial Resistance
In a recent interview, Toshihiro Nagoshi, the creator of the Yakuza series, shed light on Sega’s initial resistance to his pitches for the game. Nagoshi explained that Sega’s focus on creating games for the masses led to the rejection of his first proposal for the series. The game was deemed unsuitable for children, women, and overseas audiences, making it difficult to gain approval. Despite facing challenges, Nagoshi persisted and eventually got the Yakuza series approved after multiple attempts. The global success of the series came later, with Nagoshi moving on from Sega to pursue new projects.
From Rejection to Success: The Evolution of the Yakuza Series
The Yakuza series, now known as Like a Dragon, has come a long way from its initial rejection by Sega. Creator Toshihiro Nagoshi recently shared insights into the challenges he faced when pitching the game in the early 2000s. Sega’s focus on creating games for the masses initially led to the rejection of the Yakuza series, as it did not align with the company’s goals. Despite initial resistance, Nagoshi persisted and eventually got the series approved after multiple attempts. The global popularity of the Yakuza series came later, with Nagoshi no longer at Sega but leaving a lasting legacy with the beloved game franchise.
