Did Miyazaki help with Dark Souls 2?

Did Miyazaki help with Dark Souls 2?

For years, fans of the Dark Souls series have been wondering if Miyazaki, the creator of the Souls games, had any involvement in the development of Dark Souls 2. While some speculated that he might have had a supervising role or contributed to certain aspects of the game, the truth lies somewhere in between. In this article, we’ll delve into the facts and fiction surrounding Miyazaki’s involvement in Dark Souls 2.

Miyazaki’s Busy Schedule

2013: A Busy Year for FromSoftware

Dark Souls 2 was released in 2014, but did Miyazaki have a hand in its development? The answer lies in his busy schedule. In 2013, FromSoftware was working on two games simultaneously: Dark Souls 2 and Bloodborne. Miyazaki, the series creator, was heavily involved in both projects. As he oversaw the development of Bloodborne, he was unable to devote as much attention to Dark Souls 2. This period was marked by a change in direction for the Souls series, and Miyazaki’s focus was necessarily divided.

A Supervising Role, Not a Lead Role

In an interview, Miyazaki confirmed that he had a supervising role in Dark Souls 2. This meant he maintained a watchful eye over the game’s development, providing guidance and input when needed, but he did not take on a leading or creative role. His primary responsibility was ensuring the game stayed true to the Souls formula and franchise while also exploring new ideas and mechanics. In this capacity, he checked in regularly with the development team and ensured that the game’s overall direction was aligning with his vision.

Collaboration with the Development Team

Collaboration is key to the success of the Souls series. Miyazaki and the development team at FromSoftware shared a vision for the game, and through open communication and collaboration, they created an experience that would delight fans while introducing new elements to the franchise.

Influence from Berserk

Dark Souls 2 drew inspiration from the horror and dark fantasy themes of the popular manga series Berserk. Miyazaki has mentioned the significant influence Berserk had on his work, particularly in regards to the game’s atmosphere and visuals. However, this influence did not stem from direct involvement in the game’s design, but rather from his admiration for the manga series.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Miyazaki did not have a leading or creative role in Dark Souls 2, he did play a supervising role and provided guidance and input throughout the game’s development. His focus was on ensuring the game stayed true to the Souls franchise while exploring new ideas and mechanics. FromSoftware’s collaboration and dedication to the game are evident in its final product, and Dark Souls 2 remains a beloved entry in the series.