The developers of the recently releasedSoul Hackers 2discuss the production and reception of the game, mentioning that a new title is in development at the studio.Soul Hackers 2was released earlier this Summer, being a cyberpunk-styled sequel spin-off ofthe originalSoul Hackersgamefrom 1997. This is the first entry in this subseries after a lengthy twenty-five-year gap, with the game even dropping theShin Megami Tenseipart of its title. Despite this, it contains a lot of familiar elements such as the battle system and demon fusion mechanics.In a roundtable discussion between Denfaminicogamer, Atlus producers Eiji Ishida and Mitsuru Hirata discussed the development ofSoul Hackers 2, the game’s worldwide launch, and its overall critical reception. Ishida had previously mentioned that yearly customer surveys by Atlus helped determine what the fans wanted. One of the most requested things was a remake or sequel to the original game, which is one of the primary reasonsSoul Hackers 2got made. Despite the demand, the end result was a mixed bag for many fans.RELATED:Shin Megami Tensei Card Game Gets 30th Anniversary Re-ReleaseIshida mentioned the playercriticisms ofSoul Hackers 2, with him noting they were “harsh” as well. He noted that this entry didn’t have any connections to the mainlineShin Megami Tenseigames, with the only connective tissue being the ability to summon demons. Ishida stated that with each game’s setting changing frequently between the games he directed, he felt he was creating a new IP each time. That said, he acknowledged that Atlus-developed games are about “continuous change” and that sequels will have the previous game in the rearview while trying to make modern changes.
Hirata then noted thatthe latest patch forSoul Hackers 2was designed to address pacing issues the game had at launch. This includes a dash function, faster battle speed, and other quality-of-life improvements. An offhand comment from Hirata noted that bothShin Megami Tensei 5andSoul Hackers 2were in development at roughly the same time, noting that the work was happening at a desk next to him. He also stated that “another title” was being developed on the other side of him, though the name for this game is currently undisclosed.
Some fans speculate that this unnamed title that Hirata mentioned is the rumoredPersona 6or evenProject Re: Fantasy, though others are dispelling this idea since they’re all developed by different subsidary studios at Atlus. DespiteSoul Hackers 2selling below expectations, there are going to be other free updates to follow after this one, with Atlus and Sega hoping that the fixes and additions will help boost sales.
Soul Hackers 2is available now on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
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