Hidetaka Miyazaki and his work need no introduction. Having created some of the greatest games for FromSoftware, Miyazaki’s story has been nothing short of an inspiration for all. The iconic creator went from being an aimless student in college to switching careers at the age of 29 and becoming a GOAT in the gaming space.
When looking at his works, one can clearly tell the difference, thanks to his unique approach and take on his projects. One such factor that sets his work apart is the dark, unusually gory elements in his games.
Hidetaka Miyazaki reveals the reason behind the horror factor in his games
During an interview with PlayStation back in 2015 before the launch of Bloodborne, Miyazaki was asked about the horror component in his games. Although his Soulsborne games were never specifically labeled as ‘horror’, that does not stop theml from inducing a sense of fear and dread among players while playing.
Bloodborne‘s trailers and creatives created a similar feeling. To this Miyazaki said,
“There are several reasons why you need a sense of horror in the world, especially with Bloodborne, which has a more chilling worldview than Souls. It’s not like horror is something we specifically go for, but it’s important to have that sense of fear and terror because it directly ties into the player overcoming that and enhancing their sense of achievement.”
Similarly, Miyazaki shared that he personally believes that the world we live in can be a harsh and unkind place. He added,
“To create a game world that is always kind to players – that’s not how I see the real world. Whether it be nature or society, it’s often a harsh and unkind environment – so that translates into my games.”
Notably, this wasn’t the only time Hidetaka revealed his thoughts about his games being bleak and dark. In another interview with IGN in 2019 he was asked a similar question, to which he reiterated how he feels that the world is a wasteland that is not kind to us, and how his games revolve around the idea that ‘Light looks more beautiful in darkness.’
Miyazaki feels the pressure of fan’s expectations
Before Bloodborne was released, Miyazaki had established himself as well as FromSoftware as household names. The popularity of his previous games Demon’s Souls and Dark Souls had been unprecedented. They were and to date are considered to be among the greatest games of all time.
Thus, during the PlayStation interaction, Hidetaka Miyazaki was asked how he dealt with having such an obsessive and passionate fanbase for his games. To this, he said.
“First of all, I’m incredibly happy to have these fans. I’d be lying if I didn’t feel pressure to meet their expectations, but I get a lot of enjoyment from reading and hearing what they have to say.”
He further shared how he takes both positive and negative feedback seriously when it comes to his creations. He said,
“For these people to put so much time into my games and really discuss things that I’ve created with such passion… I’ll go online and enjoy reading what they have to say. Of course, sometimes there are things that are not so enjoyable to read – but even taking that on board, over all I take great pleasure in their comments. As a creator it’s such a valuable resource, to listen to their honest feedback and think about what game I’m going to make next. You couldn’t go out there and pay people money to put in the hours that these people do!”
The legendary creator also shared an incident when he visited the PlayStation Experience in the USA in 2014. The event had a Q&A panel with the players, and that’s when he realized the level of passion that fans have for his games
