Initially envisioned as a 2D management sim inspired by Kairosoft games, Kaizen Game Works' Promise Mascot Agency transformed into the open-world detective adventure Paradise Killer. Co-founder Oli Clarke Smith voiced concerns about market saturation before adapting the concept with input from Ikumi Nakamura. Her role as concept director led to a collaborative approach, infusing unique artistic designs into the game. The result was a richer narrative experience, showcasing the studio's willingness to innovate and embrace creative ideas beyond initial expectations.
"We liked the idea but we knew that we wanted to do something bigger than just a 2D thing... we were worried that we'd be entering a fairly crowded market."
"I said to members of the team, 'Don't worry, we'll change it later,' and then it got signed."
"It's quite nice to just hand stuff over to people and let them put their personality and ideas in the game."
"We had a general direction but then we're very much like, 'You're the expert, go for it.'"
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