Capcom's recent success is a testament to the power of collaborative creativity, according to its president and COO, Haruhiro Tsujimoto. In an interview with Famitsu, Tsujimoto revealed that the company's shift from individual-led to team-led development has been transformative, allowing Capcom to thrive for decades despite changing creators. This approach has not only ensured the longevity of their flagship IPs but has also fostered a culture of innovation and shared ownership within the company.
Tsujimoto's insight into Capcom's success is particularly intriguing given his family's history in the industry. As the son of Capcom founder and CEO Kenzo Tsujimoto, he brings a unique perspective to the table. The company's initial mindset, where major IPs were considered the property of a specific creator, led to a dependency on individual developers. This meant that the series' direction was heavily influenced by the ideas of a single creator, which had its limitations. The company's listing on the Tokyo Stock Exchange in 2000 further emphasized the need for a more sustainable and collaborative approach.
The turning point came when Capcom decided to abandon the auteur-led development approach and embrace a team-based strategy. This shift allowed the company to rebuild its titles from the ground up, even if it meant temporary sales declines. By doing so, Capcom has created a dynamic where each new game in a series is not solely driven by the ideas of one person but is instead a collaborative effort. This approach has enabled the company to pass on the accumulated know-how to the next generation of developers, ensuring that each series continues to maintain a high standard.
Tsujimoto highlights the importance of having developers who are fans of the company's games. This shared passion fosters a unique IP mindset that is naturally passed down through the team. The strength of Capcom lies in its ability to work together as a cohesive unit, driven by a collective desire to create and sell their own products. This team-first approach is exemplified by the recently released Pragmata, a new IP that embodies the company's commitment to collaborative creativity.
In my opinion, Capcom's success story is a powerful reminder that the future of game development lies in collaboration and shared ownership. By embracing a team-led approach, the company has not only ensured the longevity of its IPs but has also created a culture of innovation and creativity that is essential for staying competitive in the ever-evolving gaming industry.
