Megami Tensei author says devs must take inspiration from other media if they want to invent new gameplay systems

January 24, 2026 - 00:48

In a recent discussion, a prominent figure behind the iconic Megami Tensei series offered a compelling perspective on creative stagnation in game design. He argued that developers looking to invent genuinely new gameplay systems must look beyond their own medium for inspiration.

The central thesis is direct: if creators draw inspiration primarily from existing games, they risk merely iterating on established formulas. True innovation, he suggests, springs from absorbing ideas from a vast array of other media. This could include the narrative structures of literature, the visual language of film, the strategic depth of board games, or even abstract concepts from philosophy and science.

He emphasized that this cross-pollination of ideas is essential for breaking the cycle of derivative sequels and familiar mechanics. By analyzing how tension is built in a novel or how engagement is maintained in a theatrical performance, developers can translate those core principles into fresh interactive experiences. This approach moves beyond superficial references, encouraging a deeper synthesis of concepts to forge gameplay that feels novel and engaging.

The veteran's comments serve as a timely reminder in an industry often focused on genre trends and technical benchmarks. They champion the role of the game designer as a broad-based creative, whose toolkit should be filled with influences from the entire spectrum of human expression, not just the digital realm. The path to the future of play, it seems, may lie in looking up from the screen.