Quoted By:
>>Speaking about Pokemon’s long-lasting success and continued relevance in the latest issue of EDGE [magazinbe], Masuda has this to say:
>“There are so many variables in the games market that it’s not easy to define why Pokemon has had sustained success. There’s no doubt that the core elements of collecting, battling and trading have a lasting appeal when it comes to kids. But the thing that all our games really have in common is that we start by designing them with the younger audience in mind, and then add elements for our other core players. This means that even people who have never played the game before can easily buy it and get stuck in.”
>>Masuda also commented on how the competitive nature of Pokemon has helped the franchise gain appeal outside of its traditional demographic:
>“There are lots of activities that can be enjoyed by adults alongside kids. Think about football, for example. Younger kids may not understand the more complex rules of the game, but both they and adults alike can enjoy playing and seeing the incredible skills of real players. We’re always researching these kinds of elements that can be appreciated and enjoyed regardless of age, and looking to add them to our games.”
>>One challenging aspect for Game Freak has been mixing the new with the old. Masuda noted, “When you have a game formula that resonates so well with the fans, you need to cater for what they’re expecting, as well as innovate in ways that will excite both them and new players coming to the world of Pokemon for the first time.”
>>He went on to later add:
>“Pokemon has been consistent in delivering a positive player experience over the past 20 years and, as such, we’re seeing a real nostalgia coming through from those who played the earlier versions of the games. I think the fact that we’ve never overhauled the series and created a divide between the old and the new is also one of the reasons Pokemon has enjoyed such longevity.”
