The development team behind the Like a Dragon/Yakuza series embraces internal conflict as a key ingredient in creating high-quality games. In a recent interview with Automaton, series director Ryosuke Horii revealed that disagreements and "in-fighting" are not only common but actively encouraged.
Horii explained that these clashes, particularly between designers and programmers, are seen as opportunities for improvement. He stressed that a lack of debate often results in subpar games, emphasizing the importance of productive conflict. The role of the project planner is crucial in mediating these disagreements and ensuring they lead to positive resolutions. "Fighting is meaningless if it doesn’t result in a fruitful conclusion," Horii stated.
The studio's approach prioritizes the quality of ideas over their origin, actively soliciting and evaluating diverse perspectives. While open to constructive criticism, they're equally unafraid to reject subpar suggestions. This "merciless" approach to idea vetting, coupled with robust debate, fuels their commitment to excellence. The team strives for a collaborative environment where healthy conflict drives innovation and ultimately enhances the final product.