Key information
On September 22 and 23, 2026, the Tokyo French Institute hosted "The Tenth Mosaic," featuring a dialogue between game designers Eric Chahi and Fumito Ueda. The two creators, known for titles like "Another World" and "ICO," discussed their philosophies on building immersive game worlds.
Ueda noted that "Another World" influenced his approach to game design, specifically the idea that one should create a "world for the world" rather than a world solely for the game. He emphasized that removing UI elements and avoiding predictable difficulty curves helped maintain immersion. Chahi similarly aimed for cinematic experiences by minimizing interfaces and focusing on game rhythm, ensuring players remained engaged without explicit instructions.
Both designers prioritize non-verbal communication and player-driven emotion. Ueda explained that in "ICO" and "The Last Guardian," he avoided heavy dialogue to prevent immersion-breaking repetition. Instead, he focused on AI behaviors and physical interactions, such as petting creatures, to foster emotional bonds. Chahi agreed, noting that actions, rather than words, effectively convey relationships within a game.
Regarding development, both creators acknowledged that technical limitations often shaped their unique styles. Ueda cited memory constraints in "Shadow of the Colossus" as a factor that led to the game's distinct spatial design. Chahi suggested that focusing too heavily on new technology can be restrictive, whereas working within limitations can lead to innovative expressions that define a project's identity.
