In response to the recent marketing hints made by Square Enix during the anniversary of “NieR: Automata”, game director Yoko Taro publicly stated on his personal community: “This only means that Square Enix wants to squeeze more revenue from this IP.” This statement sparked heated discussions in the player community. Many people think that Yoko Taro is really brave for daring to criticize his own publisher so directly.
Yoko Taro’s speech style is as shameless as ever
Yoko Taro has always been known for his “outspokenness” in public speeches in the past, and he is not afraid of having different opinions from publishers in the community. Although this comment was on the surface to ridicule Square Enix’s business practices, it actually indirectly hinted at his frustration as a developer with the over-commercialization of IP.
Fans’ reaction to this statement was “more happy than worried”!
For fans who have been paying attention to “NieR: Automata” for a long time, Yoko Taro’s words are regarded as proof of “official boldness”. Many fans said that Yoko Taro said what they had wanted to say for many years but had not had the chance to say it. For an IP that has been over-consumed, the official attitude made people have a little more respect for the director.
Does this speech have any impact on the future plans of “NieR: Automata”?
There is currently no indication that Yoko Taro’s comments will affect his partnership with Square Enix. Judging from past records, this “flexible” relationship between Yoko Taro and publishers is also part of the director’s personal brand to a certain extent. His “dare to speak” trait has won him the trust of many fans.