Ben-DutkaThere's only one thing I can say after reading Nicalis founder Tyrone Rodriguez's comments concerning Metal Gear creator Hideo Kojima.
Out of bounds.
Not only is it an asinine thing to say, you haven't earned the right to say it. Who are you again? I cover the news every day and I never heard your name before that, nor have I had much desire to play any of the games with which you've been involved. You earn your way in any professional field, my friend, and while I'm sure you're proud of your accomplishments thus far and have bigger ambitions and aspirations for the future, you are not in a position to go after one of the most respected men in the history of this industry. Just no.
First of all, let me make this clear- It's certainly true that older MGS titles didn't boast perfect control (I was the first to advocate Splinter Cell over MGS for a more fluid and accessible control mechanic), but it was much better in MGS4. Secondly, it's also true that the storytelling needs to be upgraded in terms of writing and pacing. They just never knew when to end a scene in MGS4, for instance. But if we are to compare the MGS stories to other games (not movies or books; that's an illogical comparison), you will not find many productions that can attest to that level of storytelling quality.
So in some respects, Rodriguez had a point. That point isn't necessarily my issue; it's the way it was said that annoys me. Kojima should "stop making games" and focus on "making bad movies?" Are you kidding me? That's not constructive criticism, that's outright bashing and painfully ignorant to boot. You're going to kick this guy out? Quite possibly one of the last few Japanese designers that seem capable of blowing us away here in the West? And even if we step away from the quality of his games for a minute, as this is entertainment , we must always consider the joy those titles have brought to millions. That counts for nothing, I suppose.
I have heard decent, worthwhile criticism by developers, leveled at other developers. This doesn't qualify. This is just a former reviewer voicing his obvious bias and trying to make it sound like he's an authority on the subject. Now, I'm willing to bet that given a second chance, Rodriguez would probably want to reword his comment because I refuse to believe he actually agrees with the way it sounds. And if he does…well, you can't help stupid. But I don't believe that, I really don't; I think he wants to restate. And if he does, I strongly suggest he take advantage and do so, because there are quite a few ticked-off MGS fans out there right now.
And again, the bottom line is that you have not earned the right to go out on such a bold limb. Oh no, you really haven't. Nobody is above feedback and criticism and Kojima would be the first to tell you that he values a gamer voice. Still, this is, in every way, shape and form, out…of…bounds.
