Hi everyone, on behalf of The Game Kitchen, we’re thrilled to finally reveal the project we’ve worked on for the past two years, Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound. A collaboration with Dotemu, Koei Tecmo Games, and Team Ninja, into which we’re pouring our hearts and souls.
When Dotemu first approached the studio with the possibility of developing a new entry in this legendary saga, the news was received with incredible excitement. It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that couldn’t be missed.
While creating the concept, we approached the franchise with a deep appreciation for its significance as a landmark in the action genre during two distinct eras: the late ’80s and the early 2000s. Both the classic 2D and modern 3D iterations stood out for their exceptional quality, offering tight gameplay, striking visuals, memorable music, and captivating storytelling.
The series has left a lasting impact on players and continues to inspire developers, including our team: a diverse group spanning generations who grew up with Ninja Gaiden. In this presentation post, we’d like to introduce two members of the Ragebound team and share how Ninja Gaiden’s legacy has shaped their work from unique perspectives.
Raúl Vivar, the lead animator of our project, is the talent behind bringing The Penitent One to life in Blasphemous I and II. As a child of the ’80s, Raúl grew up amidst the Western ninja craze and has been a passionate fan ever since. His first encounter with Ninja Gaiden was in the local arcades, where he was captivated by the detailed graphics and the vast array of moves Ryu could perform, making him feel like a true ninja warrior. When our project was announced, Raúl was so moved that he shed tears of joy.
When it came to defining the art style, Raúl explains that high-quality pixel art was the obvious choice, given the series’ roots and The Game Kitchen’s prior experience. However, capturing the perfect mood required thoughtful effort. Transitioning from the somber, baroque dark
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