Key information
Mindware developer Mikito Ichikawa and legendary sound designer Yuriko Keino have collaborated on the physical action puzzle game Dropping Drops. Originally conceived as a non-commercial sample to demonstrate how changing controllers alters the gaming experience, the project gained momentum after positive reception at the 15th Microcomputer Infinite PRO-68K event in 2025.
The game is designed to be played with a MIDI controller, specifically the KORG nanoKONTROL2, though it remains playable without one. Ichikawa emphasized that the game's core appeal lies in the interactive feedback between the controller's faders and the game's mechanics, providing a tactile experience distinct from standard mouse or keyboard inputs.
Yuriko Keino, known for her work on early Namco arcade titles, contributed not only the music but also handled sound effects and English localization. Keino utilized the KORG KAMATA sound engine to create rich, multi-layered compositions, noting that unlike the hardware-constrained 8-channel limit of Namco's custom C30 chip, this modern environment allowed for greater creative freedom.
The game features an 80s-inspired aesthetic, utilizing a screen format reminiscent of classic Namco arcade titles. Ichikawa noted that the visual style was influenced by the reuse of an engine from previous projects. While the game includes arcade-style elements like 100-yen coin icons, it is currently being developed for wider release following significant interest from event attendees.
