Monolith Soft, the creative force behind the acclaimed Xenoblade Chronicles franchise, is embarking on an exciting new venture centered around the enhancement of its proprietary game engine. This initiative is made possible by the establishment of a dedicated Research and Development (R&D) department, aimed at supporting the studio’s desire to tackle increasingly ambitious projects. In a revealing interview with CGworld, Chief Creative Officer Tetsuya Takahashi and lead programmer Michihiko Inaba outlined this transformative path.
At the core of this engine overhaul is Monolith Soft’s foundational technology, crafted initially for the original 2010 release of Xenoblade Chronicles. By using this model as a springboard, the team aspires to develop a robust engine that can adapt to their evolving creative needs. Inaba articulated that the current phase involves multiple teams honing various aspects of the engine’s capabilities, from modeling to effects technology. The objective is clear: to unify these innovations into a cohesive framework that enhances future game development.
Interestingly, Takahashi emphasized the necessity of developing an in-house engine rather than relying on external technologies. He explained that utilizing proprietary systems allows for a greater degree of customization, tailoring the technology to the very specific needs of their games. This adaptability can greatly streamline the development process and facilitate a more user-friendly approach for the team. Takahashi’s assertion underscores the studio’s commitment to maintaining creative control over their projects.
The creation of the R&D department marks a significant milestone for Monolith Soft, which had previously faced constraints due to a limited workforce. However, their partnership with Nintendo brought about a surge in project scale and complexity, ultimately necessitating the growth of their team. With expanded resources, Monolith Soft is now positioned to innovate and experiment with advanced technologies that could redefine their future releases.
As the studio delves into this new chapter, the excitement surrounding Monolith Soft’s potential endeavors continues to escalate, particularly following the success of Xenoblade Chronicles 3 on the Nintendo Switch. Fans are left eagerly speculating about what futuristic titles might emerge, especially with rumors surrounding the next-generation “Switch 2.” While concrete details remain sparse, the establishment of the R&D department and the advancements it signifies signal a bright future for the studio and its creative ambitions.
Monolith Soft’s commitment to enhancing its game engine through a dedicated R&D department not only demonstrates the studio’s innovative spirit but also sets the stage for groundbreaking future projects. With an eye on customization and development efficiency, the team is clearly poised to push the boundaries of storytelling and gameplay in their upcoming titles.
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