Cubed

Gail Salamanca, Aksys Games: There were a number of factors in choosing this game for localisation. Having worked on the original Hoshigami we knew that with the right changes this could be a great game. Fortunately, Arc System Works already had plans to revamp and improve the game on top implementing some of our own requests. The game as it stands now is a much more accessible and enjoyable experience than the original.

Also, the current lack of SRPGs in the DS library made our decision easier as to what kinds of games we'd like to do. We've had a lot experience in the genre so we knew that we were capable of localising a game of this size in a short amount of time.

AR: How long has the translation process taken for such a text-heavy game?

GS: The translation and localisation took about 2 months.

AR: And have there been any particular changes for the English-language edition?

GS: The major difference between this and the Japanese version is the revamped battle menu that removes the "End Turn" command into two separate commands: Session and Defend. Choosing between these two commands were required whenever you ended your turn, so we've streamlined that process so you can go directly to those commands without the extra step.

AR: What makes you think that Hoshigami can stand out from the crowd? And how do you see it fitting in with the current DS audience?

GS: Currently, there aren't any traditional Japanese SRPGs on the DS at the moment so we've got a great window of opportunity to cater to those gamers who've been waiting for a solid SRPG. We know it won't appeal to younger gamers as these games tend to skew a little older, but it'll definitely resonate with the RPG fans and core gamers.

AR: What are the main aspects that have changed from the original PSone version?

GS: For starters, there's all new character artwork, music, scenarios, a new character as well as the new localisation. Also, there are now 3 selectable difficulty levels so that the user can tailor the game to their own skill level. Not to mention the streamlined interface during battles.

AR: And how does it play to the strengths of the DS system's features?

GS: Users can control the game using just the touch screen, a combination of the buttons and screen, or just the buttons alone. Also, with the dual screen it allows us display all the pertinent character status, RAP gauge and battle commands without it looking too cluttered.

AR: Would you put this in the same class as the likes of Fire Emblem and Final Fantasy Tactics? And could explain a little about how players progress through the game?

GS: Hoshigami, definitely doesn't have a big name attached to it nor does it have that mystique a game called Final Fantasy will have. But, what I think we have here is an accessible strategy RPG that tells a great story with hours upon hours of gameplay. It will challenge SRPG experts, but with the inclusion of selectable difficulty levels Hoshigami is still accessible for gamers not familiar with the genre. As for game progression, the game for the most part follows standard SRPG conventions in that two opposing arrmies take turns moving and attacking on a chess-like board. Although turn order is mostly based on the agility of an individual character, the RAP system (Ready Action Point) allows you to group your teams' individual turns together so that you can set up for multi-character combination attacks called Sessions. This is a high-risk / high reward tactic, but if done properly you can deal heavy damage on top of being able to steal an item from the enemy. Between battles you'll go through event sequences that will progress the story as well as giving you dialogue choices that can affect the outcome of the game and what characters you will meet.

AR: How long do you reckon an average gamer would take to complete Hoshigami Remix and is there scope for playing through more than once?

GS: We think the average gamer will be able to complete the game in about 40-50 hours. There's also quite a bit of incentive to play through multiple times to get all the character endings as well as the one "true" ending.

AR: Arc System Works developed this remake, but do you know if any of the MaxFive team members from the PSone original were involved in the production of the new version?

GS: (Answered by Arc System Works) Without the original creators, this project would never have been possible. They played a significant role in the deciding what additional content would be added into the game as well as supervising the entire process. They also helped check the added content until the very end to avoid
potential bugs and errors in the game.

Therefore, Hoshigami Remix exists thanks to the original creators.

AR: And has Arc System Works helped oversee the translation of the game for the US market?

GS: No, the translation was handled entirely by Aksys Games. Our staff took great care in staying true to the original Japanese dialogue and character traits whenever possible.

AR: What opportunities, if any, are there for more than one player to get involved with the game?

GS: Unfortunately, there is no vs. mode in the game, but you can trade items, weapons, and armor with another Hoshigami player via the wireless connection.

AR: Do you have plans on licensing the English-language translated version to European publishers since the original PSone game was never released in that territory?

GS: We only have rights to the US version of the game and we're not aware of any announcements for a European version [ Since this interview took place, 505 Games has now picked up the European release for 19th October ]

AR: Is there sufficient scope for a DS sequel if this game succeeds at retail?

GS: Never say never in this Industry. If the game does well enough a sequel for the DS or some other next-gen platform could be possible.

AR: And what are your thoughts on a potential future Wii version?

GS: I think you can do a lot of unique and interesting things with the SRPG genre on the Wii, so I hope a Wii sequel happens.

AR: Considering your past with (S)RPGs, is it safe to assume Aksys will be actively looking at bringing over more niche DS games in the near future?

GS: Yes, definitely!

AR: But how about titles for Wii