Whether feeling the pinch from mobile gaming, taking advantage of improved production pipelines, trying to consolidate its major franchises, or any combination of the above, Capcom is reportedly ditching its traditional four-year development cycle. Speaking to investors, Capcom CEO Kenzo Tsujimoto pledged to “reduce the time needed to develop major titles from the usual three to four years to only two and a half years.”
Reasons Behind the Shift
The decision to shorten the development cycle is influenced by several factors. One significant reason is the increasing competition from mobile gaming. Mobile games have shorter development times and can quickly adapt to market trends, putting pressure on traditional game developers to keep up. By reducing the development time, Capcom aims to release games more frequently, keeping their audience engaged and maintaining a competitive edge.
Another factor is the advancement in production pipelines. Modern game development tools and technologies have significantly improved, allowing developers to create high-quality content more efficiently. These advancements enable Capcom to streamline their processes and reduce the time required to develop major titles without compromising on quality.
Additionally, consolidating major franchises is a strategic move to ensure that Capcom’s flagship series remain relevant and continue to attract a loyal fan base. By focusing on shorter development cycles, Capcom can release sequels and updates more regularly, keeping their franchises fresh and exciting for players.
Impact on Major Franchises
“Speeding up development will probably raise the cost,” Tsujimoto said. “But creating quality content will be vital to Capcom’s ability to survive by overcoming intense global competition. We will make substantial investments to develop this content.” The first franchise to benefit from this new approach is Devil May Cry, but other major franchises like Resident Evil and Lost Planet are due for the same treatment.
The Devil May Cry series, known for its fast-paced action and stylish combat, will likely see more frequent releases, allowing fans to enjoy new adventures with their favorite characters without long waits. This could also mean more opportunities for Capcom to explore new storylines, gameplay mechanics, and innovations within the series.
Resident Evil, one of Capcom’s most iconic franchises, will also benefit from the shortened development cycle. With a rich history and a massive fan base, more frequent releases could help maintain the series’ popularity and introduce new players to the horror genre. This approach could also allow Capcom to experiment with different gameplay styles and settings, keeping the franchise fresh and exciting.
Lost Planet, another significant franchise, will also see more regular updates and releases. This could help the series regain its footing in the competitive gaming market and attract new fans. By investing in the development of these major franchises, Capcom aims to ensure their continued success and relevance in the gaming industry.
Moreover, this shift could open up opportunities for Capcom to explore new IPs and expand their portfolio. With a more efficient development process, the company can take calculated risks on new projects, potentially leading to the creation of new beloved franchises.
In conclusion, Capcom’s decision to shorten their development cycle is a strategic move to stay competitive in the rapidly evolving gaming industry. By leveraging advancements in production pipelines and focusing on their major franchises, Capcom aims to deliver high-quality content more frequently, keeping their audience engaged and ensuring their continued success. While this approach may raise development costs, the potential benefits in terms of player engagement and market relevance make it a worthwhile investment.
Source Capcom
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