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The Castlevania Dungeon Forums => General Castlevania Discussion => Topic started by: cecil-kain on September 12, 2011, 07:19:15 AM

Title: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: cecil-kain on September 12, 2011, 07:19:15 AM
Based on the recent survey, I can see that most of you who haven't joined Operation: Akumajo are abstaining due to various objections over the Youtube video or the Mission Statement.  Still, it's been encouraging to see the interest that's out there --even the cynicism...  For those that want to participate in our activities, but do not have a Facebook account --the following message is DEFINITELY for you.  And for those that believe in what we're doing, but don't like the way we're doing it --I sincerely hope you do something to support Castlevania even if it doesn't exactly follow our group's methods...

Quote
Castlevania’s 25th Anniversary is in 2 weeks and it’s time to get ready. Our official strategy involves engaging Konami directly and indirectly, personally and collectively. The following campaigns will commence officially on Monday, September 26.

First. All of our members are requested to start writing emails to Konami in strong support of traditional 2-D Castlevania games --and specifically request creation of both the 1999 Demon Castle War and Dracula’s Curse Remastered. Operation: Akumajo is not providing any form letters for this effort. Please take the time to write your emails thoughtfully and let your passion shine through. The service reps at Konami are doing their jobs, so please use courteous language that would encourage them to pass our collective sentiment along to their superiors. And if you are lucky enough to get a response, please keep that conversation going as far as you can take it!

Second. All members are also requested to create video testimonials to be posted on our Youtube channel as part of a larger viral effort. Although there’s no “correct form” your testimonial should at least touch on 3 primary topics... Congratulate Konami on the 25th Anniversary, tell them why you love Castlevania, and what you want to see next. Last but not least, give your name and state your support Operation: Akumajo.

Third. All members are requested to publicly engage Konami over Facebook. If you haven’t “liked” Konami’s official Castlevania Page, please do so. Every time they post a new topic respond by requesting the Demon Castle War, Dracula’s Curse Remastered --otherwise voice your support for 2-D Castlevania or Operation: Akumajo. This activity will also help spread our message and attract additional support within the Castlevania fanbase...

And finally... At some point, Konami needs to see the money. Therefore everyone with a Playstation 3 MUST download Harmony of Despair as soon as it becomes available. I have no doubt Konami is watching the sales of this game very closely as a trial balloon. The greater the sales, the more likely we are to see a serious investment in the kind of Castlevania games we’re asking them to make. It’s imperative for us to show Konami that 2-D Castlevania is not only viable but lucrative as well! In fact, If you’ve put off any digital purchases like Castlevania Adventure Rebirth, Virtual Console ClassicVanias, DXC, SotN, or even Castlevania console themes --NOW is the time to buy!

Again, this is a call to get ready. Our campaign will begin in earnest Monday, September 26.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Odile Kuronuma on September 12, 2011, 07:54:47 AM
This is a pretty interesting plan, but I can see a few holes in it. First of all, I'm not sure if people are willing to write to Konami and give their names(at least I do). I prefer to stay anonymous over the internet, for many reasons. Those from the US and Europe wouldn't understand I guess, but I can tell you that things in here are a bit different, and it's better to stay anonymous on the internet
The other point that I found flawed in your plan is that I don't think many people are willing to buy Harmony of Despair for the PS3. It's not a good game to begin with. And why would they take the trouble to buy a PS3 just so they can play Hod? Ok there's LOS, but I don't consider it a Castlevania game. And even if we buy the 2D games we're not sure that Konami is going to give us what we want. They're pretty unpredictable. OoE was good and relatively well received among the fans, and yet they decided to make LoS.I don't know if OoE sold well, but the way I see things is that nowadays game companies are more interested in making 3D games.
I'd really like to help, but I'm not even sure if people want 2D Castlevanias anymore, or at least not the metroidvania formula.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: cecil-kain on September 12, 2011, 08:25:10 AM
This is a pretty interesting plan, but I can see a few holes in it. First of all, I'm not sure if people are willing to write to Konami and give their names(at least I do). I prefer to stay anonymous over the internet, for many reasons. Those from the US and Europe wouldn't understand I guess, but I can tell you that things in here are a bit different, and it's better to stay anonymous on the internet
The other point that I found flawed in your plan is that I don't think many people are willing to buy Harmony of Despair for the PS3. It's not a good game to begin with. And why would they take the trouble to buy a PS3 just so they can play Hod? Ok there's LOS, but I don't consider it a Castlevania game. And even if we buy the 2D games we're not sure that Konami is going to give us what we want. They're pretty unpredictable. OoE was good and relatively well received among the fans, and yet they decided to make LoS.I don't know if OoE sold well, but the way I see things is that nowadays game companies are more interested in making 3D games.
I'd really like to help, but I'm not even sure if people want 2D Castlevanias anymore, or at least not the metroidvania formula.

There's nothing wrong with using an alias.  Cecil Kain is not my real name, but that's how I'm known to the fanbase.  So when I do my testimonial I'm probably going to continue under the name Cecil Kain.  Either way, the point is to personalize the movement --and that means removing the faceless, namelessness of the fans and overcome the corporate perception that we're just a bunch of numbers.

As for HD --I understand it's a lazy excuse for a game, but at least it's Castlevania.  And more importantly, it will be the game that Konami's watching.  Showing the company what's in it for them is an essential part of the overall strategy.  So if HD is simply unacceptable, maybe think about some of the other content out there --like Rebirth...
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: C Belmont on September 12, 2011, 08:36:01 AM
I think your gonna have to be a bit more specific about where we should send our emails, after all it's not gonna have much impact if they are spread across several different email addresses.

Creating a video testimonial sounds like it could be fun, I just hope I can find the time to put one together.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: cecil-kain on September 12, 2011, 08:37:42 AM
I think your gonna have to be a bit more specific about where we should send our emails, after all it's not gonna have much impact if they are spread across several different email addresses.Creating a video testimonial sounds like it could be fun, I just hope I can find the time to put one together.

I'm giving the 2 week notice now to make sure everyone can find the time to do it.  None of this actually begins until the official anniversary date arrives on 9/26/11.  That's when I'll give out the email address and that sort of thing...
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: shelverton. on September 12, 2011, 09:02:37 AM
I don't wanna support Harmony of Despair cause it is everything I don't want Castlevania to be. It's online, it's recycled, it's downloadable. No, no and no. Sure, it's 2D but that doesn't help when everything else is wrong IMO. I'd much rather have Lords of Shadow 2, 3 and 4 to be honest. I do however think that this operation is cool. I support a lot of things in it and I might even send a letter to Konami.

EDIT: I'll pick up Rebirth though. And maybe Rondo and the other oldies, even though I already own them elsewhere and didn't plan on getting them again...
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Sonic_Reaper on September 12, 2011, 12:26:20 PM
Whether you like HoD is besides the point.  If Konami sees that the 2D incarnations are no longer creating viable sales, they won't listen to a word the fanbase says.  Why should they?  They're assuming that even if they cater to the demands, the sales still won't be all that hot.  If you have a PS3, and strongly support this movement, I would download it, at least try it, and if it's not your cup of tea, just leave it or delete, and move on.  I'm not sure what the price is, but it's $15 on Xbox Live.  2 weeks is plenty time to scrounge up $15.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: SenileSnake on September 12, 2011, 03:14:01 PM
basically your strategy is to buy every shit konami flings at us just to show them we will buy every shit they fling at us so they continue to fling shit at us.



good strategy.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: cecil-kain on September 12, 2011, 03:59:15 PM
basically your strategy is to buy every shit konami flings at us just to show them we will buy every shit they fling at us so they continue to fling shit at us.



good strategy.

Your tact is impeccable.  Unfortunately, any sensible strategy MUST show Konami that we're willing to pay for the quality that we're asking for.  Like I said before, HD is lazy, but if Konami is making money hand over fist on the cheap --we're that much more likely to see a serious investment the next time around.  How can you expect Konami to put their time and energy into designing a quality product, if they don't see strong support from their core fanbase?  You're also forgetting the other elements of the strategy.  The fans obviously want higher quality and I'm sure that will come out in the emails and testimonials as well...  Or maybe --you just don't agree with the final objectives...
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: JR on September 12, 2011, 04:30:47 PM
I definitely won't buy HD for the sake of showing support for the series. Some people were insulted by Konami trotting the PS3 version out like it was a brand new game, and it just shows how lazy Konami has become (along with pushing out incomplete hi def collections of old games). Although I bought the 360 version and all of the DLC, I won't support Konami's lazier approach to the series any longer. I know that the series can always use bigger sales, but one could argue that supporting rushed, low-budget titles will give us just more of the very same thing in the future. (But if my girlfriend wants to play this game with me, then I can buy it because of the local co-op support, but that's another story). I'll continue to purchase downloadable Virtual Console titles and things like that, but I don't want to encourage Konami to possibly prioritize the HD budget route above all else.

I'll be ready to email Konami when the anniversary hits, but only with concerns to the anniversary itself, or the state of the series in general (though I'm not quite sure how to approach that yet). But I can't support telling Konami which games to make...1999 or a CVIII remake, or anything else.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: KaZudra on September 12, 2011, 05:29:12 PM
I'll buy the game, but be assured that there will be a high change I'll use a hacked save with pre-leveled Jon,Richter, Shanoa, Simon, Julius, and Fuuma, Cause I'm not spending 5+ hours (7+ Jon and Shanoa) Just to grind on to max out or even decent stats on characters.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Odile Kuronuma on September 12, 2011, 06:58:55 PM
I agree with SenileSnake. We can't show our support to 2D Castlevania by buying games like HD. If we do, they'll just give us the same HD crap over and over again.We have to show Konami that we want QUALITY 2D games. And if they can't give us what we want, then the series should die .
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: KaZudra on September 12, 2011, 07:03:53 PM
I agree with SenileSnake. We can't show our support to 2D Castlevania by buying games like HD. If we do, they'll just give us the same HD crap over and over again.We have to show Konami that we want QUALITY 2D games. And if they can't give us what we want, then the series should die .

yep, cause castlevania should die because of ONE Lazy game.
some people should listen to how ridiculous they sound sometimes.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: cecil-kain on September 12, 2011, 07:29:46 PM
I agree with SenileSnake. We can't show our support to 2D Castlevania by buying games like HD. If we do, they'll just give us the same HD crap over and over again.We have to show Konami that we want QUALITY 2D games. And if they can't give us what we want, then the series should die .

Demanding something without some show of good faith on our part makes a good argument for Operation: Akumajo's critics.  If HD isn't for you, then maybe consider sending Konami an email explaining how they can do better.  Nobody here is going to fault you for taking a stand on quality, but I'm telling you --an effective campaign depends on showing them that we're also willing to reward their investment.  Maybe one of the other digital purchases would suit you better...  Rebirth perhaps?
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: angevil on September 12, 2011, 08:42:09 PM
1999 Demon Castle War and Dracula’s Curse Remastered

I really want both of those games to see the light of day. I will definitely write to Konami, and everyone who is a Castlevania fan should do it. I will try to write a longer message, but if you don`t have time, you can at least type one or two sentences. It would mean a lot. Unless you want 2D Castlevania to die. I know what I will write, it is everything that I have been thinking about CV for the last few years. Did we decide which email address to write to?
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: cecil-kain on September 12, 2011, 09:00:51 PM
I really want both of those games to see the light of day. I will definitely write to Konami, and everyone who is a Castlevania fan should do it. I will try to write a longer message, but if you don`t have time, you can at least type one or two sentences. It would mean a lot. Unless you want 2D Castlevania to die. I know what I will write, it is everything that I have been thinking about CV for the last few years. Did we decide which email address to write to?

Just focus on writing for now.  I'm holding the contact info for later.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: SenileSnake on September 13, 2011, 12:14:09 AM
Your tact is impeccable. 

thanks!


Unfortunately, any sensible strategy MUST show Konami that we're willing to pay for the quality that we're asking for.


i agree. paying for quality is good.


Like I said before, HD is lazy,

i agree, too!

but if Konami is making money hand over fist on the cheap



you would be a great father

--we're that much more likely to see a serious investment the next time around. 

no.
How can you expect Konami to put their time and energy into designing a quality product,

i don't. money is always a factor when designing a game, but deep in my naive heart i believe that some game developers still care about making a good game rather than the most lucrative game ever.

if they don't see strong support from their core fanbase?

"hey steve these jackasses will buy anything, you still got that gif animation with the flashing colors?"

  You're also forgetting the other elements of the strategy. 

you should really set the font size to maximum and add quotation marks to "strategy"

The fans obviously want higher quality

yep

and I'm sure that will come out in the emails and testimonials as well...

probably

Or maybe --you just don't agree with the final objectives...

OUR FINAL SOLUTION

yep, cause castlevania should die because of ONE Lazy game.

no it should die because obviously no one but the castlevania dungeon actually gives a shit anymore


some people should listen to how ridiculous they sound sometimes.

i absolutely, totally, and wholeheartedly agree. so click the preview button before you post!

Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Successor The Cruel on September 13, 2011, 12:36:53 AM
Supporting Harmony of Despair seems backwards, counter-intuitive, and, in a sense, fabricated. The strategy is not fabricated in itself, but it's asking fans to go against their better judgment in the hopes that it brings about the realization of some elaborate dream. I'm not going to get behind lame games in the round-about hope that it will bring about good games. For fans to legitimately support stuff, said stuff is going to have to be of legitimate quality. It's really as simple as that.

If you want to send Konami a message, let them know that what they're doing is wrong. Not right.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: KaZudra on September 13, 2011, 12:41:32 AM
no it should die because obviously no one but the castlevania dungeon actually gives a shit anymore

Using that Logic, Why are you here? This is obviously a Board for Castlevania Fans Who Do Care... Unless you haven't Checked the General Discussion yet.
We (the Fans) May have our differences simply because we all like different castlevania styles.

i absolutely, totally, and wholeheartedly agree. so click the preview button before you post!

You took the Words right out of my mouth.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: C Belmont on September 13, 2011, 01:24:49 AM
Quote
Supporting Harmony of Despair seems backwards
I Couldn't agree more
In fact encouraging everyone not to buy the game would send a more accurate message, but most of us probably don't plan on buying it anyway (I know I don't).
We're gonna need to find a much better way of showing Konami that there is money to be made by listening to the fans but I'm completely stumped on what exactly we could do.

It's a pity that there isn't something similar to Kickstarter for these kinds of things & even then Konami would have to start it not us
I don't suppose anybody has any friends in Konami?
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: SenileSnake on September 13, 2011, 01:26:07 AM
i'm here because i get bored easily and because i like message boards ok. also to monitor the successor's every move.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: cecil-kain on September 13, 2011, 03:01:27 AM
i'm here because i get bored easily and because i like message boards ok. also to monitor the successor's every move.

Instead of visiting a thread you don't really care about and flamebaiting a fellow dungeonite, maybe you could take some of that extra time that's on your hands to write an email and tell Konami how you REALLY feel about their work.  The worst that could happen is they offer you some free shit, instead of making you pay for it.  Or it may suit you better to continue the sit on your ass and do nothing "STRATEGY".

<<--I previewed like you suggested, but the max font was really over the top.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: SenileSnake on September 13, 2011, 03:28:04 AM
why is everone on the dungeon so opposed to an opposing opinion and reason? the best part is that some people are even agreeing with me, albeit with a little less crude wording.

i do plenty of stuff with my free time, thanks! posting on the dungeon just happens to fall into my computer time. also i don't think konami would appreciate me calling them dumb over the internet.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Successor The Cruel on September 13, 2011, 04:26:36 AM
I'm going to be completely honest with you, Cecil Kain, without the intention of offending, but with helping your cause. I think you'd do well to get some kind of council together, or something, because I don't think you can successfully head something like this up by yourself. You seem to have the ambition, and that's good, but you don't seem to have really good calls in judgment as to what you do. As a result, the more you post about this operation, the more it seems silly, and the more your demographic shrinks.

If loads and loads and loads of people buy Harmony of Despair (which wouldn't happen regardless of this, but...), you know what's going to happen? Harmony of Despair 2. Who wants to see that?
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: cecil-kain on September 13, 2011, 06:24:37 AM
I'm going to be completely honest with you, Cecil Kain, without the intention of offending, but with helping your cause. I think you'd do well to get some kind of council together, or something, because I don't think you can successfully head something like this up by yourself. You seem to have the ambition, and that's good, but you don't seem to have really good calls in judgment as to what you do. As a result, the more you post about this operation, the more it seems silly, and the more your demographic shrinks.

If loads and loads and loads of people buy Harmony of Despair (which wouldn't happen regardless of this, but...), you know what's going to happen? Harmony of Despair 2. Who wants to see that?

A council of fans is a terrific idea!  I'd love to see something like that happen!  Unfortunately, there's a great deal of complacency and disagreement within the fanbase, so it's really controversial to take a stand on anything.  The ambition was more to get the ball rolling than to make myself a leader in any of this...  I have a busy family life, so this is a labor of love on my part.  Anyone willing to help take some of the load off my shoulders would be a godsend.  Although like minded fans have stepped up to voice their support for the effort, none have really shown interest in leadership.  Based on the Facebook account stats, page activity has increased overall and membership spiked by about 50% after the viral campaign started on Youtube about 2 weeks ago.  That said, we are reaching another plateau...

I understand the cynicism toward HD, and we can certainly agree about the quality issues that plague the game.  But the fanbase needs to remember that we're ultimately dealing with a company motivated by profit.  Will supporting HD give us HD2?  As much as they've already cannibalized the code, it seems more likely they would sooner pass out more DLC than make an actual sequel.  I don't know if you have any background in business, but as a general rule --profit margins are a major factor in reinvestment.  In other words,  the more Konami actually profits from HD, the more likely they are to reinvest a larger amount in their next game design effort.

Let's consider another example...  Let's suppose I own a construction company that builds homes.  Unless I'm fabulously wealthy, I'd probably need a bank loan to buy my equipment and hire the help I need just to get started.  In other words, I'm building homes on the cheap.  Over time, as my business grows, loans get paid down and the profits start rolling in.  Then I can start reinvesting those profits in my business to buy better equipment and hire more qualified people.  The wider my profit margin, the more I can afford to reinvest in the quality of each house I'm building --and hopefully the more it improves my company's reputation and the bottom line.

It's an unfortunate reality to deal with, but the fanbase MUST find a way to entice a company motivated by profit if we intend to see Castlevania continue.  Poor sales do not send a good message.  So if HD is unsupportable, what would you do instead?  Emails alone can show passion and interest, but Konami's bean counters also need to see the profit potential.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: C Belmont on September 13, 2011, 06:58:16 AM
What we really need is to find some friends in high places, looking at how Soul Calibur V got rolling it was only because someone on the inside agreed with the fans voices. Unfortunately the only contact we know from Konami's ranks is David Cox & while some of the hate towards LOS has since been patted out of the operation it was still practically created in response to it (at the very least that’s what it looks like). Besides that I tried asking Cox about his thoughts on a decent 2D game via twitter & he has yet to reply & probably never intends to.

I suppose another option would be to seek help from individuals already with a strong desire to make a 2D or 2.5D Castlevania for Konami rather than going to Konami themselves since they’ve shown 0 interest what so ever.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: affinity on September 13, 2011, 10:00:56 AM
it's my opinion but I feel Cox is one of the last people that would care about 2D Castlevanias.   
They are busy finding ways to make money themselves and make games THEY want to make, not what the fans want.   They will twist and spit on the Belmont and Dracula names and people will still buy something like a  LOS2 because it has Castlevania on the title, new graphics, a whip, names like Belmont and Dracula, and that bald Star Trek guy narrating it.  But we know those things don't simply make a worthy Castlevania, even if it raised the graphics bar in the industry, that won't make up for the horrible uncastlevania gameplay and awful story direction Cox did with it.

As for Operation Akumajo,
it is the best attempt the fanbase has ever made to give Konami a wake up call.  But skeptical people shouldn't jump to conclusions that "if we say this, then Konami will do this."    Fans should just go with it since there's nothing else fans can do besides rant on the boards about what Konami is not doing, and if it doesn't work, then try a different approach next time.   If it doesn't work, Castlevania fan campaigns don't have to end with Operation Akumajo, people can learn from it afterwards and make the new campaign better instead of doubting everything.

Okay, some people don't like Castlevania HD, people don't need to buy it to show their support to this campaign that Cecil made.  And people fear that if PSN Castlevania HD sells great, then all Konami will make is a Castlevania HD 2. 

EVEN IF that were the case, that wouldn't be worse than Konami again outsourcing Castlevania to Cox or some other company of idiots that don't have a brain to make a brilliant quality 2-D Castlevania that fits in the main timeline, and have the benevolence to work with IGA as producer to get that 1999 Demon Castle War done (because honestly, IGA understands Castlevania better than anyone else in the industry. They created the metroidvania SOTN, they made the legendary DS games, and the onlinevania HD, as much as haters deny it, is a revolutionary Castlevania in many fun ways while staying true to the core 2-D gameplay.  )

People really have nothing to lose supporting this campaign, if they really are Castlevania fans.   Whether peoples contributions are big or small, whether they buy PSN Castlevania HD, or instead choose to simply submit their anniversary comments/suggestions on Facebook or through Youtube, etc.   

Fans can help in different ways, even if they only do one of the things suggested in this campaign, it's much better than being negative, cynical, and just plain useless as a Castlevania fan.     :)

Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: crisis on September 13, 2011, 10:11:46 AM
Quote
They will twist and spit on the Belmont and Dracula names and people will still buy something like a  LOS2 because it has Castlevania on the title, new graphics, a whip, names like Belmont and Dracula, and that bald Star Trek guy narrating it.

lmao


That bald guy is also professor x
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Sonic_Reaper on September 13, 2011, 11:24:28 AM
You know there's an obvious and elegant solution here.  For those who purchase HoD, write Konami a letter, and let them know you've done so because you support Castlevania, but also that it's not the kind of game you'd like to see released again in the future.  So the money talks, but so will the letters.  You'll have more credibility too, as a fan who supports the series, but has some criticisms on where it's headed.

Cecil-Kain, if you don't mind me asking, are you taking motivation from the Mother 3 movement by any chance?  Some of your ideas seems similar, such as posting YouTube videos from the fans.  The reason that movement was "successful" however (in terms of getting Nintendo's attention) is because fans sent in hand written letters.  I don't remember the number exactly, but they were mailed all at the same time, and it must have been some hundreds, because it really got Nintendo's attention!  Unfortunately, in the end, Nintendo decided to leave Mother 3 untranslated, but they did respond directly to the cause.  If you could do something similar with Castlevania, even if it was a hundred letters or so, all mailed at the same time, in combination with emails and the Facebook page, would definitely get their attention.

Also, I wouldn't rule out Cox.  I know at least one person has asked him about 2D Castlevania on his twitter page, and he obviously ignored it and didn't respond.  But imagine a flood or hundreds of questions regarding it non-stop.  He would have no choice but to respond, in some capacity.  At the very least, it would get his attention.  Just a thought.  We can use Shawshank Redemption as an example, haha!  Persistence will get you that library still.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Nagumo on September 13, 2011, 11:30:00 AM
The money is going to end up in their wallets, and the letters in the shredder.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Sonic_Reaper on September 13, 2011, 11:35:42 AM
It's funny.  The general rhetoric here is so negative.  The complete opposite of the Mother fans from starmen.net, which I frequent.  They're optimistic, and unite in record numbers when it comes to the series.  It's too bad the Castlevania fans are the complete opposite ...
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: DarkPrinceAlucard on September 13, 2011, 11:42:04 AM
It's too bad the Castlevania fans are the complete opposite ...

Given Konami's actions as of late, how can you expect the CV fanbase to be optimistic?
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Sonic_Reaper on September 13, 2011, 11:44:18 AM
The way I look at it, is we've given Konami the chance, and they've time and again, not given the fans what they've wanted.  So, what's the next logical step?  Take that into our own hands anyway we can.  If we sit on our asses and mope, we won't get anything.  Not saying it's guaranteed if we tried, but it's sure a hell of a lot better than doing absolutely nothing at all.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: angevil on September 13, 2011, 02:55:57 PM
OMG, it`s the first time I agree with what affinity said.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Odile Kuronuma on September 13, 2011, 03:32:28 PM
The way I look at it, is we've given Konami the chance, and they've time and again, not given the fans what they've wanted.  So, what's the next logical step?  Take that into our own hands anyway we can.  If we sit on our asses and mope, we won't get anything.  Not saying it's guaranteed if we tried, but it's sure a hell of a lot better than doing absolutely nothing at all.
Oh I know what I'm gonna do. I'm gonna stop giving a shit about Castlevania, just like I did with Berserk, because the guys at Konami are full of shit. They think we're a bunch of morons who'll buy anything, just because it has the Castlevania name in it. I'm not going to buy Hod, Los or any other game that isn't convincing . There are other things more important  in life than "saving" a game franchise. 
Sorry for the negative post, but I've really had it with the attitude and logic of some of the members.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Sonic_Reaper on September 13, 2011, 04:52:45 PM
I don't really understand your post.  If you're done with the series, please do us all a favor and move on, so we don't have to read useless posts, such as this.  My posts are aimed at people who still care about the franchise, in at least some capacity.  They are not meant to stir people who are already done with the series.  And I don't care for the personal attacks because I am at least still somewhat positive that a difference can be made.  When did being optimistic become such a hated and loathed thing?  Wow.  I mean, seriously?  This fan base has become cannibalistic, and just eats up and spits out anyone who still have a shred of hope for the series accomplishing something in 2D.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: C Belmont on September 13, 2011, 05:01:59 PM
Quote
fans sent in hand written letters.  I don't remember the number exactly, but they were mailed all at the same time, and it must have been some hundreds, because it really got Nintendo's attention!

Interesting, I suppose the disadvantage of sending emails is that they can easily just be deleted with the rest of the spam but if we sent 169 physical letters to konami then they would at the very least need to take enough notice to fit them all in their bin ;D
I like it!
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Odile Kuronuma on September 13, 2011, 05:12:24 PM
I don't really understand your post.  If you're done with the series, please do us all a favor and move on, so we don't have to read useless posts, such as this.  My posts are aimed at people who still care about the franchise, in at least some capacity.  They are not meant to stir people who are already done with the series.  And I don't care for the personal attacks because I am at least still somewhat positive that a difference can be made.  When did being optimistic become such a hated and loathed thing?  Wow.  I mean, seriously?  This fan base has become cannibalistic, and just eats up and spits out anyone who still have a shred of hope for the series accomplishing something in 2D.
I still care about the franchise, even if it's just a little bit,  but if this goes on I'm not sure if I'll want to support it anymore .And I didn't mean you specifically by that comment. I'm just tired of how some people are naive, and seem to think that Konami will do what we want if we buy their games. Games that some of us like and some don't. Like it or not we can't do much for the series, because we're divided, and Castlevania isn't a major franchise. We can always voice our discontent to the road the series has taken, but Konami won't do much about it, because it's not MGS.I know these arguments have been brought up countless times before, but that's how things are.
 And to be honest, I'd rather see the franchise die, than seeing it take the LoS or Hod route. Call me pessimistic if you want, but we gave Konami a lot of chances to prove us wrong, and they always let us down.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: C Belmont on September 13, 2011, 05:44:51 PM
Been googling the Mother 3 campaign(s) & it looks as though they sent both physical letters and emails
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Sindra on September 13, 2011, 06:04:56 PM
The way I look at it, is we've given Konami the chance, and they've time and again, not given the fans what they've wanted.  So, what's the next logical step?  Take that into our own hands anyway we can.  If we sit on our asses and mope, we won't get anything.  Not saying it's guaranteed if we tried, but it's sure a hell of a lot better than doing absolutely nothing at all.

This is pretty much what I've been saying this entire time, yet people keep ignoring it and doing nothing or simply are content to bitch and it pisses me off.

When you've done everything in your power to try and change how things are, even knowing it might not get you anywhere, THEN you have the bitch to piss and moan because you KNOW you've done everything you could and it did nothing. THEN you have a real right to bitch and complain. Whether or not you agree with what Operation Akumajo is doing, at least it's a goddamn attempt to do SOMETHING other than whine about how Konami slighted the fans yet again. Get off yer duffs and do something!

It's no wonder they don't take the core fans seriously. From what is evident here, most are downers and don't deserve to be paid any mind anyhow.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: cecil-kain on September 13, 2011, 07:25:37 PM
What we really need is to find some friends in high places, looking at how Soul Calibur V got rolling it was only because someone on the inside agreed with the fans voices. Unfortunately the only contact we know from Konami's ranks is David Cox & while some of the hate towards LOS has since been patted out of the operation it was still practically created in response to it (at the very least that’s what it looks like). Besides that I tried asking Cox about his thoughts on a decent 2D game via twitter & he has yet to reply & probably never intends to.

I suppose another option would be to seek help from individuals already with a strong desire to make a 2D or 2.5D Castlevania for Konami rather than going to Konami themselves since they’ve shown 0 interest what so ever.

After Castlevania Judgment, LoS, and HD's epic cheapness --The 25th Anniversary bust was the tipping point that got everyone really fired up.  If Cox is interested in supporting 2-D, that's certainly news to me.  Regardless, he's not a Konami employee and has little to no say in the future of 2-D Castlevania --remember Mercury Steam was specifically hire to reboot Castlevania in 3-D...  If there were an insider to help us plead our case, that person would need to working in Japan.

And the only person who might be willing is none other than Koji Igarashi.  He has a personal Facebook account and he has been accepting friend requests from many, many Castlevania fans...  I recently posted a message on his wall to thank him for his work delivering Rondo to American shores with the Dracula X Chronicles, but I'd hesitate to bombard him with any kind of campaign on his own personal account.  If it were a group page like Operation: Akumajo's I might feel differently...  Perhaps just one post to at least make him aware of our activities...

Although I agree with many of you that Igarashi was due for retirement, he is needed for the Demon Castle War.  And he could still be a big help to make sure 2-D Castlevania is left in good hands...

People really have nothing to lose supporting this campaign, if they really are Castlevania fans.   Whether peoples contributions are big or small, whether they buy PSN Castlevania HD, or instead choose to simply submit their anniversary comments/suggestions on Facebook or through Youtube, etc.   

Fans can help in different ways, even if they only do one of the things suggested in this campaign, it's much better than being negative, cynical, and just plain useless as a Castlevania fan.     :)

Very well put Affinity.  :-)

You know there's an obvious and elegant solution here.  For those who purchase HoD, write Konami a letter, and let them know you've done so because you support Castlevania, but also that it's not the kind of game you'd like to see released again in the future.  So the money talks, but so will the letters.  You'll have more credibility too, as a fan who supports the series, but has some criticisms on where it's headed.

BINGO!  JACKPOT!  FTW!  Kudos to you for reading the WHOLE STRATEGY!  :-D

Cecil-Kain, if you don't mind me asking, are you taking motivation from the Mother 3 movement by any chance?  Some of your ideas seems similar, such as posting YouTube videos from the fans.  The reason that movement was "successful" however (in terms of getting Nintendo's attention) is because fans sent in hand written letters.  I don't remember the number exactly, but they were mailed all at the same time, and it must have been some hundreds, because it really got Nintendo's attention!  Unfortunately, in the end, Nintendo decided to leave Mother 3 untranslated, but they did respond directly to the cause.  If you could do something similar with Castlevania, even if it was a hundred letters or so, all mailed at the same time, in combination with emails and the Facebook page, would definitely get their attention.

Also, I wouldn't rule out Cox.  I know at least one person has asked him about 2D Castlevania on his twitter page, and he obviously ignored it and didn't respond.  But imagine a flood or hundreds of questions regarding it non-stop.  He would have no choice but to respond, in some capacity.  At the very least, it would get his attention.  Just a thought.  We can use Shawshank Redemption as an example, haha!  Persistence will get you that library still.

I considered phone calls and snail mail as part of the overall strategy, but I had doubted the fans would be open to taking that kind of time...  Very well...  Let's get it out there.

webinfo@konami.com

Now the other contact info

Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc.
2381 Rosecrans Ave, Suite 200
El Segundo, CA 90245
USA
Tel: (310) 220-8100
Konami USA
9am - 5pm PST, M-F,
Fax: (310) 220-8200

KONAMI CORPORATION
9-7-2, Akasaka
Minato-ku, Tokyo, 107-8323
Japan
Tel: 03-5770-0573
Fax: 03-5412-3300

Konami Digital Entertainment Co., Ltd
9-7-2, Akasaka
Minato-ku, Tokyo, 107-8324
Japan

Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH
Frankfurt Head Office
Berner Str. 103-105
60437 Frankfurt am Main
Germany
TEL: +49 (0)69 985 573 0
FAX: +49 (0)69 985 573 62

Konami Digital Entertainment Limited
Romm Nos. 611B, 612 & 613, 6/F,
Tsmi Sha Tsui Centre,
66 Moody Road,
Kowloon, Hong Kon
Tel: 852-2956-0573
Fax: 852-2956-2300

but PLEASE do not send ANYTHING until 9/26/11!

Oh and to answer your other questions...  I was not familar with the Mother campaign you're speaking of --I'd probably save myself some trouble if I could find the time to study these other movements a bit more closely.  As for targeting Cox on his twitter --I just don't see that working out.  He's not even a Konami employee...


The way I look at it, is we've given Konami the chance, and they've time and again, not given the fans what they've wanted.  So, what's the next logical step?  Take that into our own hands anyway we can.  If we sit on our asses and mope, we won't get anything.  Not saying it's guaranteed if we tried, but it's sure a hell of a lot better than doing absolutely nothing at all.

Right on!

Interesting, I suppose the disadvantage of sending emails is that they can easily just be deleted with the rest of the spam but if we sent 169 physical letters to konami then they would at the very least need to take enough notice to fit them all in their bin ;D
I like it!

Perfectly logical.  And if you have the time, why not do both?

I still care about the franchise, even if it's just a little bit,  but if this goes on I'm not sure if I'll want to support it anymore .And I didn't mean you specifically by that comment. I'm just tired of how some people are naive, and seem to think that Konami will do what we want if we buy their games. Games that some of us like and some don't. Like it or not we can't do much for the series, because we're divided, and Castlevania isn't a major franchise. We can always voice our discontent to the road the series has taken, but Konami won't do much about it, because it's not MGS.I know these arguments have been brought up countless times before, but that's how things are.
 And to be honest, I'd rather see the franchise die, than seeing it take the LoS or Hod route. Call me pessimistic if you want, but we gave Konami a lot of chances to prove us wrong, and they always let us down.

Harmony of Despair is gonna cost -what?  $15?  $20?  That's less than half a tank of gas for my truck....  I probably paid $100.00 for Lords of Shadow's Limited Edition plus all the DLC...  Not to mention the $100 dollars or so spent on the PS2 Castlevanias...  HD is REALLY a small price to pay IMO --and remember, it's just a piece of a larger strategy...
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Odile Kuronuma on September 13, 2011, 08:09:03 PM
Harmony of Despair is gonna cost -what?  $15?  $20?  That's less than half a tank of gas for my truck....  I probably paid $100.00 for Lords of Shadow's Limited Edition plus all the DLC...  Not to mention the $100 dollars or so spent on the PS2 Castlevanias...  HD is REALLY a small price to pay IMO --and remember, it's just a piece of a larger strategy...
No thanks.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: KaZudra on September 13, 2011, 08:48:34 PM
Like Affinity Said, If Harmony Of Despair isn't your cup of tea, you should support the cause by purchasing Rebith.
as for me, I'll be purchasing both. (plus I already have HD on 360 + all DLC)
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Odile Kuronuma on September 13, 2011, 08:50:15 PM
Yeah I will, when I get a Wii.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: KaZudra on September 13, 2011, 08:53:55 PM
Yeah I will, when I get a Wii.
Same Here. with a price tag of $150 Including Mario Kart. this Console will be bought very soon (Plus I look forward to the Boss Wii Games and LoZ Skyward Sword)
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: C Belmont on September 13, 2011, 10:07:25 PM
If the operation was to win the approval/support of studios like wayforward or Vanillaware do you suppose that would help convince Konami of the potential profitability of a modern 2D castlevania.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Munchy on September 13, 2011, 11:51:38 PM
WayForward: No. Not that they don't make quality games, just that their games, for whatever dumb reason, sell like twelve copies each. Which blows, because I fucking loved Contra 4.

Vanillaware: Maybe...? Depends on how much people like Dragon's Crown, I guess. It being only 30 bucks is a huge, huge incentive though. I don't know why more 2D console games haven't gone that kind of budget route; would make them seem like much less of a risk to publishers. I certainly hope Konami takes a look at this, because a similar route may be our only hope to ever see a new physical media 2D game on consoles ever again.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Punishment on September 15, 2011, 03:36:35 PM
Hey i got an Idea!

Download Bloodrayne: Betrayal and write on the Official Castlevania facebook wall and say you downloaded it because you wanted to remember what it used to feel like to play a Castlevania game lol

Ok don't do that lol

Loving BB btw its fun and hard
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Odile Kuronuma on September 15, 2011, 04:06:52 PM
Hey i got an Idea!

Download Bloodrayne: Betrayal and write on the Official Castlevania facebook wall and say you downloaded it because you wanted to remember what it used to feel like to play a Castlevania game lol

Ok don't do that lol

Loving BB btw its fun and hard
It's not a bad idea. If everyone would buy it, then Konami will realize that 2D games are still viable. And yeah we should write to them to explain our motives.
I honestly would love to play it. You don't see many 2D games that look so good, and fun to play .
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Punishment on September 15, 2011, 06:33:30 PM
If you got the console and the money, i say get it XD

A lil repetitive yea and i wish they had more music (the music is good tho) but the difficulty is hard so it's a fun ride lol
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Flame on September 16, 2011, 08:23:20 AM
Ok. What im seeing here is two arguments.

"We should show our displeasure with our wallets. Not buying HD, and not buying Konami"


And Cecil kain's argument,

"we need to buy HD to show theres Castlevania support."

way i see it, the first is more logical, although both could end up a lose lose situation.

Say we pay konami and buy HD to support the franchise. We get HD 2, and Konami latches onto that new castlevania mold.

We boycott HD and dont buy it. they figure theres no interest in castlevania and dont make new games.

Except maaaybe LoS. maybe. if its sales do good by their books.

but the first argument is the more sensible one. Think about it.

there are many other ways to support the franchise. Buying merchanidse, buying virtual console games, etc. and just telling them outright, "we dont like HD and what its done and we wont buy it, the fans have spoken." and then proceed to boycott it.

You should look at what 100,000 Strong and the "Get Me Off The Moon" campaign is doing for Legends 3, or what many of its members are suggesting. simply not buying Capcom products that are not Mega Man. Some are not even buying those, Boycotting Capcom altogether, "Mega Man is dead, RIP Mega Man, Cancelled Man", etc.

Actually, now that I think about it, you need to narrow your focus.

TYou want konami to retain the original timeline, you want them to retain 2D, and you want them to discontinue the HD mold.

narrow your focus. one plan of action at a time. pick one, go with it, and later you can add others.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: JR on September 16, 2011, 11:00:51 AM
I agree with Flame. I can't fully get behind Operation Akumajo because I don't feel like it represents me as a Castlevania fan (especially after urging everyone to buy HD, whether they agree with the game or not). And that's its problem with a lot of people, I think. It's taking stances that are just too divisive, and its numbers are suffering because of it. I think if it took a more basic stance in its aim, it would be much more succesful.

Look at the anniversary, for instance. Operation Akumajo could focus on only the anniversary (after it comes and goes with no acknowledgement from Konami, of course), and it would be much stronger for it. Celebrating the series 25th is something that nearly every fan can get behind. If Konami does something for the anniversary, then Operation Akumajo could focus on a different issue. But things like denying 3D, demanding a Demon Castle Wars or new CVIII game, or urging everyone to buy HD will only hinder potential support, IMO. The number of people who support this thing desperately needs to grow, and finding out how to get universal support from fans should probably be of utmost priority.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Successor The Cruel on September 16, 2011, 11:56:50 AM
I agree with Flame. I can't fully get behind Operation Akumajo because I don't feel like it represents me as a Castlevania fan (especially after urging everyone to buy HD, whether they agree with the game or not). And that's its problem with a lot of people, I think. It's taking stances that are just too divisive, and its numbers are suffering because of it. I think if it took a more basic stance in its aim, it would be much more succesful.

That's why I suggested for the guy to get some kind of council together, because this is basically one guy saying, "I want this, this, this, this, oh, and THIS!" And there are only, like, twelve people who share exactly the same specific dream as that one guy, and it seems as if he's not willing to budge on his philosophy. Thus, he's going to take his twelve people to try to knock down Konami's door, while Konami doesn't notice and the rest of the fanbase chuckles.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Profbeanburrito on September 16, 2011, 12:44:17 PM
The thing I don't get is the people who support this seem to think they can get so many people to help, but of you look at the face book page it has about 170 members, and there are maybe 50 or so more who aren't on face book. Konami is not going to listen to 200 or so people. And like I've seen mentioned before, these people think that they represent the entire Castlevania community but they only represent a small fraction. I think it's a waste for people to get up in arms towards konami. I'm sure they have something planned but it's possible it may not be ready to announce yet. And there's also the possibility that they're waiting til the 30th anniversAry. Be patient and see what happens
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Successor The Cruel on September 16, 2011, 01:53:32 PM
I do think it is possible to get more people. It would just take more time, and advertising would have to go beyond The Castlevania Dungeon Forum. There are plenty of Castlevania fans that don't come here, and you may be surprised to learn that (in most cases of decently sized and established forums) most of a forum's visitors aren't posting members.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Odile Kuronuma on September 16, 2011, 02:25:47 PM
If you guys don't feel like joining Operation Akumajo, you can still show your support to the series by joining CVSyndicate on twitter. They have something planned for the anniversary. If you wanna know more, visit the link below:
http://castlevaniasyndicate.tumblr.com/post/10285763697/castlevania-25th-anniversary-push-fans-unite (http://castlevaniasyndicate.tumblr.com/post/10285763697/castlevania-25th-anniversary-push-fans-unite)
I'll be doing some fanart, and maybe a Youtube video.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Sonic_Reaper on September 16, 2011, 02:33:41 PM
The thing I don't get is the people who support this seem to think they can get so many people to help, but of you look at the face book page it has about 170 members, and there are maybe 50 or so more who aren't on face book. Konami is not going to listen to 200 or so people. And like I've seen mentioned before, these people think that they represent the entire Castlevania community but they only represent a small fraction. I think it's a waste for people to get up in arms towards konami. I'm sure they have something planned but it's possible it may not be ready to announce yet. And there's also the possibility that they're waiting til the 30th anniversAry. Be patient and see what happens

It's a two way street.  The fanbase is just too divided.  The game series has been all over the map, which is the biggest problem.  You have people rallying for old school platforming, those rallying for the metroidvanias, there's actually quite a large fan base that likes HoD, those that like the 3D non-LoS installments, and finally those that like LoS.  And these groups can then be broken down even more into other sub-groups.  If you're going to claim that those 200 don't represent the fan base, that same finger needs to be pointed back at you, and all others.

I disagree that sitting on our asses, complaining and not supporting Konami is a sensible solution.  It just means we'll get more LoS in the future.  If you absolutely, positively, hate HoD with every burning fibre, then support Rebirth, and other similar offerings.  People have been tossing "we the fan base" around so much in this thread, but it means absolutely nothing.  There is no fan base, because we can't even agree on what Castlevania is or means to everyone, because it means something different to everyone.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: shelverton. on September 16, 2011, 02:45:39 PM

We'll get more LoS anyway. LoS is basically Konami's vision of how the Castlevania series should evolve. They seem happy with result - and more importantly - the sales.

I'm a fan of every type of Castlevania you've mentioned, and I don't necessarily prefer anyone over the other. I'll probably just go with the flow and see what happens. Yeah, I'm a bad fan. Or actually, I'm the ideal fan for gaming companies, I guess. That doesn't mean I swallow anything, but as long as I like the games I don't care if they're 2D or 3D, or "true" to the series roots. I've always supported the 2D games, but I'm not going out of my way to "direct" the series in any particular way. I am - dare I say it? - satisfied with the way things are. Though I wouldn't mind another Metroidvania someday soon...

But whatever... GO OPERATION AKUMAJO! I hope you get what you want :)

Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: crisis on September 16, 2011, 03:03:09 PM
What if Lords of Shadow 2 bombs?
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Kingshango on September 16, 2011, 03:08:44 PM
What if Lords of Shadow 2 bombs?

They'll reboot it again and give it to Double Helix.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: KaZudra on September 16, 2011, 04:15:10 PM
What if Lords of Shadow 2 bombs?

Lords of Shadow 3: Gabriel's Curse would redeem the Franchise lol
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Successor The Cruel on September 16, 2011, 04:19:05 PM
What if Lords of Shadow 2 bombs?

I have a feeling that Konami probably doesn't even know the answer to that question. They'll probably cross that bridge when/if they come to it. I doubt Castlevania would "die," or anything like that, though. I know fans often have a bleak outlook, but I think there are still too many people who like the series for it to be a wise move to stop making the games.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: C Belmont on September 16, 2011, 07:11:46 PM
All I want is for Konami to atleast once attempt creating a 2D castlevania on par with the other modern 2D games being developed (i.e Bloodrayne:Betrayal, Rayman Origins and Dragons Crown)

If such a game were to be made and it flopped then I'd be willing to accept that Castlevania in 2D will never sell as well as Konami wants it to, but currently all they have done is recycle low res sprites (even on next gen consoles) & sit there wondering why modern gamers aren't biting when it's painfully obvious why.

 
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Odile Kuronuma on September 16, 2011, 08:20:44 PM
It's funny how a small company like Vanillaware is able to make such quality 2D games. They don't have big budgets, and i read somewhere that they funded the development for  Muramasa off the royalties they received for Odin Sphere. 
If Konami wants to make 2D games in the future, they should outsource it to a small company. I understand why big game companies don't like to invest in 2D. It's too risky.Most gamers prefer 3D nowadays. And let's be honest, a 2D game will never have a big budget like a 3D one.
Imo it's better to outsource it to a small company who makes that kind of game, with a reasonable budget(not too big not too small). If it sells well, they'll get the profit from it. If it doesn't, it won't be a big loss since they didn't give a big budget to begin with. And if we're lucky maybe they'll choose Vanillaware or some other company  to make these games. There will be no more recycled sprites, and we'll finally get some real  HD 2D graphics.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Flame on September 16, 2011, 09:59:09 PM
OKAY.


Cecil Kain, lets do this:

For now, simply have the campaign focus on 2 things. The Anniversary, and the 2D franchise. You can have those two focuses because the Anniversary one is all encompassing. And you need to make the argument sound sincere and from the heart, not like demands on a ransom list.

those are specifically the two more important things right? The preservation of 2D, and the proper recognition of the Anniversary, or at least for SOME kind of hint to be given towards what they are planning, considering they said they were planning something.

And secondly; I ill advise your strategy of "showing support" by buying HD. All that will tell Konami is that you and the fans liked HD, and really want to see more. It makes no sense to support the franchise by buying a game you dont like. If you dont like it, dont buy it. Thats the strongest message you can give Konami. That the new direction taken by HD was not well received by the consumers.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: KaZudra on September 16, 2011, 10:20:07 PM
List of Games to Purchase to Support the Cause:

XBLA
Castlevania - Harmony of Despair
Castlevania - Symphony of the Night

PSN
Castlevania - Harmony of Despair
Castlevania - Symphony of the Night
Castlevania Chronicles

Wii Virtual Console \ WiiWare
Castlevania: The Adventure ReBirth
Castlevania
Castlevania II - Simon's Quest
Castlevania III - Dracula's Curse
Castlevania Dracula X: Rondo of Blood
Super Castlevania IV

Not to Mention Nintendo Online Can Allow you to buy NEW Castlevania DS games Online
Other Various Online Retailers also sell games New.


Buying games New is Important, the money goes to the Devs and its basically talking to the directly.
HD may not be a crowd favorite, but its at least a 2D-vania.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Flame on September 16, 2011, 10:40:26 PM
Did you read anything I just wrote...
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: KaZudra on September 16, 2011, 11:15:47 PM
Did you read anything I just wrote...

yeah, but It shows You have 10+ options other than HD, If you still wanna support via HD, you can, but options..
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: C Belmont on September 17, 2011, 01:27:48 AM
Not including the duplicates (Sotn & HD) I have already purchased most of the games on that list already
So as far as I'm concerened Konami has recieved as much support as they are gonna get, they will need to do something pretty damn good to get any more than that! some info about the 25th anniversary would be a nice start
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Successor The Cruel on September 17, 2011, 08:22:42 AM
It's funny how a small company like Vanillaware is able to make such quality 2D games. They don't have big budgets, and i read somewhere that they funded the development for  Muramasa off the royalties they received for Odin Sphere.

Kinda' funny, I guess. The truth of the matter is that making a quality game is more-so a matter of creativity than it is money. Case in point - Cave Story, which is one of the best Metroidvania styled games around, and it was probably made by just some guy in a bedroom. 

I agree with your idea about outsourcing. Konami should let people who want to make 2D games and have fresh ideas for them have a crack at Castlevania, and then Konami can use their marketing muscle and funding to support them. I actually wouldn't mind seeing IGA again, after what he did with Order of Ecclesia. Sans the recycled sprites, that is a top, top quality game. He, unfortunately was never given the chance to follow it up with a serious Castlevania game. I think he still has it in him to make great 2D games. The guy did make Symphony of the Night, Aria of Sorrow, and Order of Ecclesia, and I think those are games that are pretty hard to reasonably deny.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: crisis on September 17, 2011, 09:04:47 AM
I agree with myself.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: cecil-kain on September 17, 2011, 09:51:21 AM
Just chiming in for a moment till I find more time later today (or maybe Monday) to respond...

I think the purpose of supporting HD has kinda gotten lost here...  The primary concept is to show support during a critical moment when Konami is actually paying attention to the sales of a 2-D Castlevania game.  HD has been on XBLA for a year now --anyone downloading it for their 360 would be a drop in the bucket.  But anyone with a PS3 has a unique opportunity to send a message.

For those that wish to boycott, you have my respect --but consider this...  The business only counts the SALES --and NOT "the potential sales we pissed off over quality control"  Konami will NOT hear your voice unless you make a point of emailing to TELL THEM that you are actively protesting the game...  So I hope you intend to follow through...

As for prospects of HD2 --I really don't think it's going to happen...  For the kind of game it is, with an engine in place --it makes way too much sense to make more DLC until they've recycled the rest of the series...  And after that, what choice would they have but to make a new game with fresh material?

There's a lot more here I'd like to respond to, but it will need to be later...

OH --and about the Anniversary...  It's the spark that got the Operation started.  Now that the introduction video is out of the way, next will be an actual Tribute.  Watch for it that weekend --the 23rd or 24th perhaps...
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Successor The Cruel on September 17, 2011, 10:41:53 AM
Well... good luck : p
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Chernabogue on September 17, 2011, 11:19:14 AM
I can only wish you good luck, man. I hope you'll get at least an answer.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Flame on September 17, 2011, 12:29:35 PM
Quote
I think the purpose of supporting HD has kinda gotten lost here... 
It has not gotten lost. However, When there are so many other options to choose from, buying HD only tells them 2 things, either or.
A. You liked it, and want to see more of it,
and
B. You will buy anything Castlevania related they shit out, regardless of quality.

By buying everything on the list EXCEPT HD, it sens out a message thay you like what they have been  doing with say, The Adventure Rebirth and the ports of SoTN, but that you dont like what they did with HD.

They look at the sales, and they will see the others sold better than the one.

Unfortunately with Castlevania, there is not as much merchandise to buy as with say, Mega Man, who has been all about merchandise recently, despite a lack of games.

So you have to do what you can. send messages, and not just to Konami US, because that have little power over these things. But Konami Japan. Like 100,000 Strong did. get ahold of someone who can write japanese and make a well put together message and have everyone email it directly to them. And then include a personal message. Im certain the DO have translators who can read those emails.

Quote
OH --and about the Anniversary...  It's the spark that got the Operation started.  Now that the introduction video is out of the way, next will be an actual Tribute.  Watch for it that weekend --the 23rd or 24th perhaps...
in that case, you can switch focus now to the preservation of 2D gameplay, and the completion of the classic timeline.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: thernz on September 17, 2011, 01:49:55 PM
Hasn't Hodespair already garnered a fair amount of success anyway? I remember it being one of the top downloaded titles on XBL for a month or two. And IGA said the game received an award a few days ago for being one of the Greatest Hits in Japan.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Odile Kuronuma on September 17, 2011, 03:42:51 PM
Kinda' funny, I guess. The truth of the matter is that making a quality game is more-so a matter of creativity than it is money. Case in point - Cave Story, which is one of the best Metroidvania styled games around, and it was probably made by just some guy in a bedroom. 

I agree with your idea about outsourcing. Konami should let people who want to make 2D games and have fresh ideas for them have a crack at Castlevania, and then Konami can use their marketing muscle and funding to support them. I actually wouldn't mind seeing IGA again, after what he did with Order of Ecclesia. Sans the recycled sprites, that is a top, top quality game. He, unfortunately was never given the chance to follow it up with a serious Castlevania game. I think he still has it in him to make great 2D games. The guy did make Symphony of the Night, Aria of Sorrow, and Order of Ecclesia, and I think those are games that are pretty hard to reasonably deny.
You know what could be great? IGA working with the guys at Vanillaware. He's good at coming up with gameplay ideas, and they have the best  2D graphics. They're also good in the story department. 
I'm pretty sure they could do a wonderful job together, and give a new breath to the series.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Successor The Cruel on September 17, 2011, 09:26:49 PM
You know what could be great? IGA working with the guys at Vanillaware.   
I'm pretty sure they could do a wonderful job together, and give a new breath to the series.

Yeah, I'm sure they would.

Anyway, Cecil-Kain, you need to listen to what other people are telling you and not just go off and do your own thing regardless of what they say, because if you do that, you are sure to lose. I don't think any defense you make for your reasons is going to bring many people around to your way of thinking. If you want people to get behind you, you need to listen to what they're telling you. This seems like it's a community oriented thing, or at least you'd like it to be. One guy who decides all policy and then makes foolhardy moves despite people telling him to do something else isn't going to do much good. Just ask Hitler's Generals. They'll tell you the same thing.

(https://castlevaniadungeon.net/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fschikelgruber.net%2Fimages%2Ffritsch.jpg&hash=56ea6cfcdf755be96ae44bdceecc0234)
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: cecil-kain on September 18, 2011, 10:52:04 AM
Yeah, I'm sure they would.

Anyway, Cecil-Kain, you need to listen to what other people are telling you and not just go off and do your own thing regardless of what they say, because if you do that, you are sure to lose. I don't think any defense you make for your reasons is going to bring many people around to your way of thinking. If you want people to get behind you, you need to listen to what they're telling you. This seems like it's a community oriented thing, or at least you'd like it to be. One guy who decides all policy and then makes foolhardy moves despite people telling him to do something else isn't going to do much good. Just ask Hitler's Generals. They'll tell you the same thing.

(https://castlevaniadungeon.net/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fschikelgruber.net%2Fimages%2Ffritsch.jpg&hash=56ea6cfcdf755be96ae44bdceecc0234)

Successor, even though I haven't found the time to respond to every single post 24/7 --I have been engaged and following these discussions.  I'm taking notes and even reconsidering a few things (for unity and appeal if nothing else)  Just because you're not seeing immediate results, that doesn't mean I'm brushing aside opinions or advice.  In fact, several changes have already been made since the founding --I just don't make a point of broadcasting every single tweak.

We obviously disagree on strategy, but I can tell you're rooting for the cause on some level...  Like many of our fellow dungeonites, you seem to be abstaining from Operation Akumajo because it doesn't fit your views 100%.  The implication being, if I can't give you 100% of what you want --or everyone else in the fanbase 100% of what they want --the effort just isn't worthy of your time or support.  Is there too much Cecil Kain in Operation Akumajo?  Yes, there probably is.  An unfortunate result of building so much of this by myself.  Have I made some mistakes?  Sure.  Hindsight is 20/20 and nobody has my back --unfortunately some things simply can't be undone, and so we move on.

I really like your council idea, and I'd love to see some of my fellow dungeonites stepping up to offer their leadership and vision to really push the movement forward.  But the fact is that only one person has approached me and put their name forward to join such a council --and it wasn't even you.  I can tell you're a passionate fan, and that's certainly the mark of a good leader --but so too are respect and trust.  And as much as I'd like to invite you, I'm sad to say that comparison to Hitler has completely destroyed your credibility.  :-\
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: X on September 18, 2011, 01:17:43 PM
Quote
And as much as I'd like to invite you, I'm sad to say that comparison to Hitler has completely destroyed your credibility.

That man isn't Adolf Hitler. That, and his uniform looks British, not German. But yeah I can agree that if someone compares you to another person they lose a severe amount of credibility. Life is like a double-edged sword; don't cut unless you're prepared to be cut.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Profbeanburrito on September 18, 2011, 01:22:14 PM
I think what's going to happen with this whole Operation:Akumajo thing, is that konami already has something planned and is going to announce it sometime soon its just not ready yet, and everyone involved in Operation:Akumajo is going to gloat and try to take credit for it even though, in reality, they had nothing to do with it
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Flame on September 18, 2011, 02:11:06 PM
Well they DID say they were planning something.

I think we might have to wait a bit before we do anything. Patience is a virtue, and we dont know WHAT they are planning. It could be a game, or it could be anything else. Artbook, Anime, Manga/Comic, merchandise in general, etc.

We should hold out on the WE WANT ANNIVERSARY NAO. untill we have SOME knowledge on what they are planning. Or shit focus to the other stuff.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: KaZudra on September 18, 2011, 02:49:14 PM
Well they DID say they were planning something.

I think we might have to wait a bit before we do anything. Patience is a virtue, and we dont know WHAT they are planning. It could be a game, or it could be anything else. Artbook, Anime, Manga/Comic, merchandise in general, etc.

We should hold out on the WE WANT ANNIVERSARY NAO. untill we have SOME knowledge on what they are planning. Or shit focus to the other stuff.

Patients? Most of these people want their annual/biannual Game Schedule back and too ashamed to admit it.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: crisis on September 18, 2011, 03:34:11 PM
Quote
Well they DID say they were planning something.

Konami never confirmed anything, all we have to go on is that tidbit from the relyonhorror website and no one has followed up on it since/knows if it's a reliable source.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: C Belmont on September 18, 2011, 04:42:34 PM
Quote
Most of these people want their annual/biannual Game Schedule back and too ashamed to admit it.
I think it's more likely that they are just very anxious to see some indication from Konami of what Castlevania's future will be like
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: shelverton. on September 18, 2011, 04:46:48 PM
Here's what Konami should be doing;

On the 26th they announce Castlevania 5. WIN!

In glorious 16-bit. I think most of us would be able to forgive them for not having the goods ready at the exact date. The announcement itself would be epic enough, IMO.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: KaZudra on September 18, 2011, 04:49:19 PM
I think it's more likely that they are just very anxious to see some indication from Konami of what Castlevania's future will be like
http://www.next-gen.biz/opinion/opinion-why-videogame-series-shouldnt-be-annualised (http://www.next-gen.biz/opinion/opinion-why-videogame-series-shouldnt-be-annualised)

Maybe Konami is actually taking thier time this go around.

Here's what Konami should be doing;

On the 26th they announce Castlevania 5. WIN!

In glorious 16-bit. I think most of us would be able to forgive them for not having the goods ready at the exact date. The announcement itself would be epic enough, IMO.

.....you mean a real 4?
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: shelverton. on September 18, 2011, 05:19:02 PM
.....you mean a real 4?

Super Castlevania 4 is not a "real 4" to you? I guess it isn't, but it's too late to change that now. The next numerical entry would have to be 5, even if SCV4 really should've been called just "Super Castlevania", in my opinion.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: cecil-kain on September 18, 2011, 05:51:44 PM
I agree with Flame. I can't fully get behind Operation Akumajo because I don't feel like it represents me as a Castlevania fan (especially after urging everyone to buy HD, whether they agree with the game or not). And that's its problem with a lot of people, I think. It's taking stances that are just too divisive, and its numbers are suffering because of it. I think if it took a more basic stance in its aim, it would be much more succesful.

Look at the anniversary, for instance. Operation Akumajo could focus on only the anniversary (after it comes and goes with no acknowledgement from Konami, of course), and it would be much stronger for it. Celebrating the series 25th is something that nearly every fan can get behind. If Konami does something for the anniversary, then Operation Akumajo could focus on a different issue. But things like denying 3D, demanding a Demon Castle Wars or new CVIII game, or urging everyone to buy HD will only hinder potential support, IMO. The number of people who support this thing desperately needs to grow, and finding out how to get universal support from fans should probably be of utmost priority.

The Anniversary looks like a bust no matter what, so the short term focus with the Tribute that's coming up is to help raise awareness, and then use that awareness as leverage for the long term goals like Demon Castle War and Dracula's Curse Chronicles.

It's a two way street.  The fanbase is just too divided.  The game series has been all over the map, which is the biggest problem.  You have people rallying for old school platforming, those rallying for the metroidvanias, there's actually quite a large fan base that likes HoD, those that like the 3D non-LoS installments, and finally those that like LoS.  And these groups can then be broken down even more into other sub-groups.  If you're going to claim that those 200 don't represent the fan base, that same finger needs to be pointed back at you, and all others.

I disagree that sitting on our asses, complaining and not supporting Konami is a sensible solution.  It just means we'll get more LoS in the future.  If you absolutely, positively, hate HoD with every burning fibre, then support Rebirth, and other similar offerings.  People have been tossing "we the fan base" around so much in this thread, but it means absolutely nothing.  There is no fan base, because we can't even agree on what Castlevania is or means to everyone, because it means something different to everyone.

This.

What if Lords of Shadow 2 bombs?

I hope it doesn't.  I've said since the beginning that boycotts are not the way to go, because Konami won't look at the situation for the protest it is --they're just gonna think of Castlevania as a bad investment.  With that said, I wouldn't encourage anyone to buy LoS2 either --it's not even close to the kind of game the operation stands for.  HD on the other hand is at least a 2-D game...

All I want is for Konami to atleast once attempt creating a 2D castlevania on par with the other modern 2D games being developed (i.e Bloodrayne:Betrayal, Rayman Origins and Dragons Crown)

If such a game were to be made and it flopped then I'd be willing to accept that Castlevania in 2D will never sell as well as Konami wants it to, but currently all they have done is recycle low res sprites (even on next gen consoles) & sit there wondering why modern gamers aren't biting when it's painfully obvious why.

This.

It's funny how a small company like Vanillaware is able to make such quality 2D games. They don't have big budgets, and i read somewhere that they funded the development for  Muramasa off the royalties they received for Odin Sphere. 
If Konami wants to make 2D games in the future, they should outsource it to a small company. I understand why big game companies don't like to invest in 2D. It's too risky.Most gamers prefer 3D nowadays. And let's be honest, a 2D game will never have a big budget like a 3D one.
Imo it's better to outsource it to a small company who makes that kind of game, with a reasonable budget(not too big not too small). If it sells well, they'll get the profit from it. If it doesn't, it won't be a big loss since they didn't give a big budget to begin with. And if we're lucky maybe they'll choose Vanillaware or some other company  to make these games. There will be no more recycled sprites, and we'll finally get some real  HD 2D graphics.

Nothing wrong with a 3rd party stepping in --just as long as they understand what Castlevania is all about, instead of trying to reinvent it beyond recognition.  To this day, I'm still amazed how Retro Studios handled Metroid --and essentially beat Nintendo at their own game.  I'd be tickled pink to see Konami shamed by an upstart company that knows how to get the job done.  :-D

OKAY.


Cecil Kain, lets do this:

For now, simply have the campaign focus on 2 things. The Anniversary, and the 2D franchise. You can have those two focuses because the Anniversary one is all encompassing. And you need to make the argument sound sincere and from the heart, not like demands on a ransom list.

those are specifically the two more important things right? The preservation of 2D, and the proper recognition of the Anniversary, or at least for SOME kind of hint to be given towards what they are planning, considering they said they were planning something.

And secondly; I ill advise your strategy of "showing support" by buying HD. All that will tell Konami is that you and the fans liked HD, and really want to see more. It makes no sense to support the franchise by buying a game you dont like. If you dont like it, dont buy it. Thats the strongest message you can give Konami. That the new direction taken by HD was not well received by the consumers.

The most important thing about the 25th Anniversary is just raising awareness --hardly anyone outside the core fanbase even seems to know about it.  I don't think IGN's published a single article --which is amazing considering all the free publicity they've given Mario, Zelda, and even Metroid...  I'm hoping the Anniversary Tribute I'm working will excite and inspire other fans to produce their own tributes and testimonials as part of a larger viral campaign.  This strategy is a less direct approach, but when combined with diligent email and facebook campaigns --we may be able to put some pressure on Konami.

As for HD.  I think I've pretty well covered my rationale for supporting it.  If you don't agree, then don't buy it.  Simple as that.  But again I ask --how else would you intend to entice a company motivated by profit?

List of Games to Purchase to Support the Cause:

XBLA
Castlevania - Harmony of Despair
Castlevania - Symphony of the Night

PSN
Castlevania - Harmony of Despair
Castlevania - Symphony of the Night
Castlevania Chronicles

Wii Virtual Console \ WiiWare
Castlevania: The Adventure ReBirth
Castlevania
Castlevania II - Simon's Quest
Castlevania III - Dracula's Curse
Castlevania Dracula X: Rondo of Blood
Super Castlevania IV

Not to Mention Nintendo Online Can Allow you to buy NEW Castlevania DS games Online
Other Various Online Retailers also sell games New.

Buying games New is Important, the money goes to the Devs and its basically talking to the directly.
HD may not be a crowd favorite, but its at least a 2D-vania.

I really should have put that list up with my first post.  Thank-you.

Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: DragonSlayr81 on September 18, 2011, 06:28:28 PM
I think what's going to happen with this whole Operation:Akumajo thing, is that konami already has something planned and is going to announce it sometime soon its just not ready yet, and everyone involved in Operation:Akumajo is going to gloat and try to take credit for it even though, in reality, they had nothing to do with it
Or, Konami has NOTHING planned, and even though Operation: Akumajo goes underway, Konami could frankly care less about a few fans. let alone the CV series and it's anniversary. Right now, getting the HD collection of MGS and ZOE are the priority. Konami: "Castlevania what?". "Hey, you want a present for CV's anniversary? Have an HD collection of MGS and ZOE!!! That's good enough for you!".
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Nagumo on September 19, 2011, 12:57:14 AM
On the 26th they announce Castlevania 5. WIN!

But that wouldn't even make sense.  :-\
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: shelverton. on September 19, 2011, 03:09:30 AM
But that wouldn't even make sense.  :-\

Why not?
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Chernabogue on September 19, 2011, 10:39:59 AM
One week to go until the party.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Successor The Cruel on September 19, 2011, 10:42:00 AM
That man isn't Adolf Hitler. That, and his uniform looks British, not German. But yeah I can agree that if someone compares you to another person they lose a severe amount of credibility. Life is like a double-edged sword; don't cut unless you're prepared to be cut.

He was a German Colonel General.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Werner_von_Fritsch (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Werner_von_Fritsch)

And eh. In regards to something of this nature, I probably have more credibility than anyone on this forum. Something I don't feel I have to prove : p

If there is anyone who knows anything about online promotion, getting followers, and the like, especially in relation to something Castlevania related, it's moi : )
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: crisis on September 19, 2011, 11:14:37 AM
Quote
I probably have more credibility than anyone on this forum.

Not Gunlord.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: X on September 19, 2011, 11:18:48 AM
Quote
He was a German Colonel General.

Thanks. The uniform threw me off until you clarified it.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Successor The Cruel on September 19, 2011, 11:49:13 AM
Not Gunlord.

He's pretty up there. In the halls of legend, they still sing songs of his accomplishments and will for many days to come, particularly his performance of the VOTOMs theme. Some whisper that Gunlord will surpass the Halls of Legend, and be elevated to the Mount of Mythology. Now, I don't know if this is true, but I can see the potential for it.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: KaZudra on September 19, 2011, 01:57:36 PM
What does a Nazi General have to do with a Simple Operation that is pretty much devoted to preserving the development of 2D games and the 25th Anniversary? Nothing.
If your looking for tactics, See what the other Operations are doing to get a good idea on what to do.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: JR on September 19, 2011, 02:08:13 PM
The Anniversary looks like a bust no matter what, so the short term focus with the Tribute that's coming up is to help raise awareness, and then use that awareness as leverage for the long term goals like Demon Castle War and Dracula's Curse Chronicles.

That's just it, though. Your long-term goals could also go for more simplicity and broader fan appeal. Using a grassroots campaign to get a Demon Castle War game or a Dracula's Curse remake will get some supporters, but it will also leave a lot of people scratching their heads, and some people just flat-out disagreeing (that one is expected in any scenario, but I digress). I know that nobody wants to water down their ideas, but you might find more success in focusing more on the state of the series in general, or possibly the total lack of info on Konami's part (the current status of the series, IGA's status, etc).
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: C Belmont on September 19, 2011, 05:19:08 PM
Quote
know that nobody wants to water down their ideas, but you might find more success in focusing more on the state of the series in general, or possibly the total lack of info on Konami's part (the current status of the series, IGA's status, etc).

The problem there though is that your still only limiting yourself to just the Castlevania fanbase and a very specific group of them too, which isnt going to help increase numbers. The Operations ideas are going to need to have wider appeal in order for Konami to take notice, remember that the effect Konami wanted from LOS was for more people (and their wallets) to be interested in Castlevania so I think it would be pretty safe to say that even if everyone on this forum joined Operation Akumjo it still wouldn't have the numbers to satisfy Konami's greed otherwise thngs would be very different right now. 
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: JR on September 20, 2011, 01:51:01 AM
The problem there though is that your still only limiting yourself to just the Castlevania fanbase and a very specific group of them too, which isnt going to help increase numbers.

 How so? ??? I think addressing the current state of the series in general, and the lack of news/recognition of the anniversary may have the broadest appeal you can get. But I do agree: it needs more support than just more Dungeon users. It would have to be at least several thousand to start getting recognition. Probably at least tens of thousands to hold any significance with Konami.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: C Belmont on September 20, 2011, 02:13:26 AM
Quote
How so?

Whether you consider the series to be in a state of decline or growth is a matter of opinion
& based off the LOS reviews that I've read the most popular opinion is that Castlevania has never been better.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: KaZudra on September 20, 2011, 02:17:10 AM
Whether you consider the series to be in a state of decline or growth is a matter of opinion
& based off the LOS reviews that I've read the most popular opinion is that Castlevania has never been better.

I also recall the Reviews Praising Dead Island for its graphics (console version) just to be shattered by non-commercial reviews (many problems)
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: JR on September 20, 2011, 02:26:53 AM
Whether you consider the series to be in a state of decline or growth is a matter of opinion
& based off the LOS reviews that I've read the most popular opinion is that Castlevania has never been better.

That might be true, but you can't get many satisfied fans to join a movement asking for change. I'm only talking about finding better ways to address the shortcomings of the series. It's true that criticism of the series might not get many supporters in general, but there are definitely ways to maximize that number.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Nagumo on September 20, 2011, 05:57:01 AM
Online petitions like this never work. This movement is largley inspired by Operation Rainfall and Moonfall, correct? I think the difference between them and Operation Akumajou is that they demand something that already exist or at least has been considered by the developers. But even those operations don't have any success, so why even bother?         
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: cecil-kain on September 20, 2011, 07:13:37 AM
Online petitions like this never work. This movement is largley inspired by Operation Rainfall and Moonfall, correct? I think the difference between them and Operation Akumajou is that they demand something that already exist or at least has been considered by the developers. But even those operations don't have any success, so why even bother?

Online petitions are generally passive and lazy.  It's easy to sign up and say you believe in what they're doing, but it's quite another thing to actively campaign with emails, social media, and viral propaganda.  Operation Akumajo has been criticized since the beginning for being too aggressive --but that's the very thing that sets it apart from the laziness of online petitions.  And we also enjoy one major advantage that those other operations didn't --the 25th Anniversary of a legendary brand that is NOT being celebrated by the developer.  Even to casual fans, that sort of thing doesn't make Konami look good.

Probably the only fanbase that has more to complain about is the Megaman community.  What Capcom did to tease their fanbase by announcing Legends 3 (after 10 years) and then screwing them over by cancelling it --that's just about as sleazy as this industry can get.  Now THAT is a situation where the company really deserves to be punished with boycotts  --primarily to make an example of them for the rest of the game industry.  if the Legends 3 movement fails, there's little hope any fanbase will ever be able to make causes like ours worthwhile.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: crisis on September 20, 2011, 07:39:35 AM
I must say I admire you, cecil-kain. No matter how many times people keep saying over n over "this operation will never work" you keep coming back positively with stuff like "well how would YOU make it work?" It shows that you have a lot of dedication & willfullness to see the series done right. Sure it may take a while for Konami to notice this endeavour but what do you have to lose by atleast trying? Don't cancel the project just cuz a few naysayers don't believe in it/refuse to participate. In the coming months with enough support from other sites/word of mouth/viral campaigns this operation might actually get recognized at one point..

Godspeed my friend!  :)
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Nagumo on September 20, 2011, 07:45:41 AM
Thanks for making me feel guilty, Crisis.  >:(

Anyway, I was just trying to make clear you probably just end up wasting your time with this.  :(       
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Ahasverus on September 20, 2011, 08:05:11 AM
I think perhaps we want CV to become an Anualized franchise and ´perhaps that's not the way Konami wants it, look at Gaming's Biggest IP, Grand Theft Auto, we haven't gotten a game for 3 years and fan base is not singing petitions and calling the franchise dead, it's just Rockstar's way to keep the quality and expectation. If Konami adopted the triple A 2-3 years model since Lords of Shadow, that's fine, if that guarantees quality.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: affinity on September 20, 2011, 08:53:31 AM
LoS isn't even triple A quality.  More like D-.   Graphics, sound =/= overall quality and authenticity.


Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Kingshango on September 20, 2011, 08:54:16 AM
I've heard of Operation Rainfall but what is moonfall?
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Sonic_Reaper on September 20, 2011, 09:12:54 AM
Moonfall is to get Megaman off the moon (Legends 3).

Regardless of whether these petitions/campaigns are successful, it will at least be considered somewhat of a success if the company's take notice and respond.  For example, Nintendo responded directly to fans who wanted Xenoblade released in the US and were petitioning and pre-ordering the Japanese and European versions.  The game was never released in the US, but at least Nintendo took notice.  It shows that the fan base really does have some influence, and it's a nice stepping stone for even more influence in the future.  Gaming media as well, covered that story.  It's something we can hope for as well.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Nagumo on September 20, 2011, 09:20:45 AM
Moonfall is Zelda fans wanting a Majora's Mask release for 3DS.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Sonic_Reaper on September 20, 2011, 10:00:46 AM
Oh is that what it is?  lol  I've been grossly misinformed.  Disregard my last post then.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: shelverton. on September 20, 2011, 10:29:06 AM

I wonder how much influence we - the castlevania fanbase - had over the fact that Rondo of Blood was actually released in the west after YEEEEAAAARS of people emailing Konami asking for it? I'd like to think that Dracula X Chronicles happened because of us. I very much doubt that Konami would've bothered otherwise. It was 100% fan service, when you think about it.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: JR on September 20, 2011, 01:08:44 PM
Online petitions like this never work. This movement is largley inspired by Operation Rainfall and Moonfall, correct? I think the difference between them and Operation Akumajou is that they demand something that already exist or at least has been considered by the developers. But even those operations don't have any success, so why even bother?       

Because at least you have the satisfaction of saying you tried, instead of just complaining and doing nothing. I think most people involved fully realize that this likely won't work, but at least the effort is there.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Nagumo on September 20, 2011, 01:26:47 PM
Yes, but in this case effort doesn't get you anywhere. That's how I think about it at least. Guess I'm just a lazy bum!     
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: JR on September 20, 2011, 01:44:14 PM
Meh, you can't really blame someone for simply trying.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Sindra on September 20, 2011, 02:03:21 PM
For fuck's sake, Nagumo, way to be a downer. Maybe instead of constantly saying its a lost cause and shouldn't even be bothered with you should, like....don't. It contributes nothing.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Nagumo on September 20, 2011, 02:09:17 PM
Fair enough. Carry on.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: KaZudra on September 20, 2011, 02:14:45 PM
Operation Rainfall is For Xenoblade Chronicles for the wii, it started this whole thing

Operation Moonfall/ We want Majora's Mask 3DS is self explanitory

Get me off the moon / 100,000 Strong for Megaman Lgegnds 3 is the only one who's tactics are actually working.
Capcom not letting Keiji Inafune complete is projects becoming public knowledge were thier doing.

@Nagumo you say they never work and its a waste of effort, but just watch.... One of these operations are gonna succeed
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Claimh Solais on September 20, 2011, 05:05:58 PM
Posts saying "This will never work" or "You're wasting time" help no one in any way shape or form and are quite frankly annoying. Either AT THE VERY LEAST give encouragement, or just don't speak (or in this case, post). It's, in my opinion, disrespectful to tell someone what they're doing is a waste. >_>
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Sindra on September 20, 2011, 10:04:36 PM
Honestly? No matter what the project or movement is - if it's meant to benefit the Castlevania community, even if you don't agree with it and don't join in on it, at least have the decency to cheer on from the sidelines regardless for your fellow fans.

That's the only way this community will get momentum and come together. If we support one another.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: cecil-kain on September 20, 2011, 10:40:14 PM
I must say I admire you, cecil-kain. No matter how many times people keep saying over n over "this operation will never work" you keep coming back positively with stuff like "well how would YOU make it work?" It shows that you have a lot of dedication & willfullness to see the series done right. Sure it may take a while for Konami to notice this endeavour but what do you have to lose by atleast trying? Don't cancel the project just cuz a few naysayers don't believe in it/refuse to participate. In the coming months with enough support from other sites/word of mouth/viral campaigns this operation might actually get recognized at one point..

Godspeed my friend!  :)

Thank-you for the encouragement.  I'm very fortunate to have some extra time on my hands for this sort of thing, and my family has been supportive as well.  I think quite a few fans would be more deeply involved if they had the time, but you can't fault people for attending to their lives.  For me, this is labor of love --the pursuit of a passion.  Naysayers don't bother me so much as they confuse me.  It's easy to sit back and criticize someone's work, but its quite different to step up and set a positive example.  If you're not happy with the state of Castlevania, why not do something about it?  That's what this is really all about.   :)
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Nagumo on September 21, 2011, 12:40:54 AM
Uh, what's with all the butthurt?  I just wanted to say this is most likely going to be futile since Operation Moonfall and Rainfall from the looks of it are not working either. But now it's me being critical and not supportive of other fans.

Ok.       
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: JR on September 21, 2011, 03:20:22 AM
I just wanted to say this is most likely going to be futile since Operation Moonfall and Rainfall from the looks of it are not working either.

Okay, but why even bother pointing that out in the first place??
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: thernz on September 21, 2011, 06:22:35 AM
Naggerumo.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: cecil-kain on September 21, 2011, 06:44:17 AM
Uh, what's with all the butthurt?  I just wanted to say this is most likely going to be futile since Operation Moonfall and Rainfall from the looks of it are not working either. But now it's me being critical and not supportive of other fans.

Ok.       

Ummm...  That's not *exactly* what I meant...  But OK.  The point I was trying to make is how so many fans are critical of Judgment, HD, and LoS, but then turn around and refuse to join something like Operation: Akumajo just because it doesn't fit their views 100%.  That's what I meant about the naysayers confusing me.  In any case, Nagumo --you've made your point and reasonably so.  No offense taken, so long as you don't go comparing me to Hitler like Successor did a couple pages back.   ;D
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: The Silverlord on September 21, 2011, 07:07:59 AM
At least it's good to see you’re listening cecil-kain, perhaps mellowing a bit, because you probably set off on the wrong foot.  Demands like ‘re-instate Koji Igarashi’ and messages like ‘although we accept Lords of Shadow as a fine game in its own right, we cannot accept the desecration it brings to the Demon Castle mythology’ don’t quite put the right foot forward for an English-language Facebook group.

From the off you probably offended Dave Cox and lost any potential weight in the European offices.  You might struggle to influence an autocratic, hierarchical Japanese gaming company, but a route through might be through the likes of Konami Europe.

Cox’s job title is listed on plaxo as “Division Head - Product Planning and Development & Executive Producer”.  We know he jetted off to a meeting in Frankfurt early August (on which he tweeted), a meeting which may have hosted a visit from the chairman of Konami (http://antoine.soubigou.org/pdfdess/Rapport%20management%20japonais.pdf; (http://antoine.soubigou.org/pdfdess/Rapport%20management%20japonais.pdf;) 5.1.4).  You never know what Cox might have been asked to give his opinion on at, or since, that meeting.

While it’s likely he would overlook negativity towards Lords of Shadow, or sweep much of it aside as angst or reluctance to change, you never know: he could still ask higher within Konami after the 25th anniversary, and put forward some suggestions as he may have read on the Facebook page.

He may even have done something to that affect, or had input on it.

Still, easy for me to say now.  I’m sorry I didn’t ask to help at the start, I could have offered to try and help proof-read and moderate some of your statements/outlines.  I guess I just didn’t agree with much of it.  If you need help now, please let me know (I’m quite good with web and image stuff)!  Good on you for at least having had a stab at trying to do something. 

Overall, it’s disappointing that nothing concrete has since been announced on the 25th anniversary, but I wouldn’t hammer the nails into the 2D coffin yet by any means. 
   
I think you’re learning, much like Dave Cox, that you cannot appeal to every fan in every walk of the series.  It’s not easy!

For now, I need to get a new Castlevania remix made . . . !
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: The Silverlord on September 21, 2011, 07:28:48 AM
Of course when I say you probably offended Dave Cox: he probably never even saw it.  I realise how silly that sounds.  Taken for what it is though, it's a heartfelt cause and the correspondence thing might just have an impact. Do I understand he's had a few tweets on the anniversary and hasn't responded?

Edit: Ah, he's said outright he isn't any part of any of it
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: cecil-kain on September 21, 2011, 08:13:24 AM
At least it's good to see you’re listening cecil-kain, perhaps mellowing a bit, because you probably set off on the wrong foot.  Demands like ‘re-instate Koji Igarashi’ and messages like ‘although we accept Lords of Shadow as a fine game in its own right, we cannot accept the desecration it brings to the Demon Castle mythology’ don’t quite put the right foot forward for an English-language Facebook group.

From the off you probably offended Dave Cox and lost any potential weight in the European offices.  You might struggle to influence an autocratic, hierarchical Japanese gaming company, but a route through might be through the likes of Konami Europe.

Cox’s job title is listed on plaxo as “Division Head - Product Planning and Development & Executive Producer”.  We know he jetted off to a meeting in Frankfurt early August (on which he tweeted), a meeting which may have hosted a visit from the chairman of Konami (http://antoine.soubigou.org/pdfdess/Rapport%20management%20japonais.pdf; (http://antoine.soubigou.org/pdfdess/Rapport%20management%20japonais.pdf;) 5.1.4).  You never know what Cox might have been asked to give his opinion on at, or since, that meeting.

While it’s likely he would overlook negativity towards Lords of Shadow, or sweep much of it aside as angst or reluctance to change, you never know: he could still ask higher within Konami after the 25th anniversary, and put forward some suggestions as he may have read on the Facebook page.

He may even have done something to that affect, or had input on it.

Still, easy for me to say now.  I’m sorry I didn’t ask to help at the start, I could have offered to try and help proof-read and moderate some of your statements/outlines.  I guess I just didn’t agree with much of it.  If you need help now, please let me know (I’m quite good with web and image stuff)!  Good on you for at least having had a stab at trying to do something. 

Overall, it’s disappointing that nothing concrete has since been announced on the 25th anniversary, but I wouldn’t hammer the nails into the 2D coffin yet by any means. 
   
I think you’re learning, much like Dave Cox, that you cannot appeal to every fan in every walk of the series.  It’s not easy!

For now, I need to get a new Castlevania remix made . . . !

Thank-you for offering to help.  Are you on Facebook?  I've really been super-focused on developing the Tribute video, so I haven't looked into retooling the Mission Statement or anything like that yet.  As for soliciting insiders, I don't know if Cox would be able to help even if he was interested.  He probably has some clout, but his group was hired to do something radically different from what Operation: Akumajo seeks to preserve.  Konami of Europe and America definitely have some pull, but Konami of Japan is where change really needs to happen.

I've been an Igarashi fan for a long time, but Judgment finally convinced me that he's due for retirement.  He's only needed for Demon Castle War and that's it.  After that, he should pass the baton to someone else for a proper reboot that respects central tenants of the true mythology.  Making Gabriel Belmont into Dracula literally desecrates the character of the Holy Warrior --and introducing Satan destroys the premise of Dracula's supreme villainy.  But I digress...

Igarashi is on Facebook with a personal account and he has accepted many friend requests from Castlevania fans --including myself and many other members of this forum.  If soliciting an insider were part of the strategy, I think he would be the best possible target.  I hesitate to bother him on a personal account about work, but I think posting the Tribute there would be harmless --just to make him aware of the cause.

Let's continue talking over PM.  My next couple days will be busier than usual --there's quite a few things I'd like to get done in my personal life before the campaign begins this next week.  I really want to give this as much of my undivided attention as possible.  :)
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: affinity on September 21, 2011, 08:43:16 AM

I've been an Igarashi fan for a long time, but Judgment finally convinced me that he's due for retirement.  He's only needed for Demon Castle War and that's it. 

That's not true!  Judgement was probably assigned upon him from Konami to make, and even though many of us don't like Judgement, it's not like IGA was planning to change the series into a fighting series, and it was just for Wii, a console not worth taking seriously.  Fans shouldn't just treat the person who revolutionized 2-D Castlevanias and preserved the Castlevania essence the best, like some tool to be used and discarded.

Passing the baton to someone else would just give rise to Konami making further mistakes outsourcing Castlevania to the wrong company/team.   There would be brighter future with IGA still in charge.   

And he is probably more open to fans thoughts than anyone else in the industry that could wind up getting their hands on Castlevania, the result of others getting the seat would be the series taking a turn for the worse, like Lords of Shadow, DmC, and Metroid Other M.

I mean seriously, it's like preferring some different people other than Kojima and their team to develop a new Metal Gear.     Well yes franchises get new directors/teams over time, but LoS is already proof of Konami's poor taste and bad judgement who to pick.

Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: Nagumo on September 21, 2011, 08:52:30 AM
Okay, but why even bother pointing that out in the first place??

Those operations have more members, have multiple people organise stuff instead of one person, and have demands that everyone can agree on and are more reasonsable. Yet even they don't succeed. Why would you think it would work this time? I'm only saying that to spare people from doing something futile? I just meant that as helpful advice but all I get is CRITICISM!!11!!1 Thanks for taking it so well.

grumble

Just for the record, I didn't mean anything bad with my comments so I'm not sure why I get all this backlash.   

And my previous comment wasn't directed at you Cecil-Kain.   
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: crisis on September 21, 2011, 11:20:33 AM
::i look at Nagumo with dragon-colored eyes::

you really need to stop disrespecting me in all of your posts... I mean look at the backlash your causing here. But we are all in the same boat so let's try n have a good time k? But with no attitudes & attacks on my personality.

We are still friends though =)
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: X on September 21, 2011, 11:52:54 AM
Quote
Passing the baton to someone else would just give rise to Konami making further mistakes outsourcing Castlevania to the wrong company/team.   There would be brighter future with IGA still in charge.

Not true. Castlevania has had numerous teams throughout it's history prior to IGA showing up. The majority of the games were successful, they didn't really interfere with one another story-wise and each game was new and interesting because of the different teams handling the development.

Quote
And he is probably more open to fans thoughts than anyone else in the industry that could wind up getting their hands on Castlevania, the result of others getting the seat would be the series taking a turn for the worse, like Lords of Shadow, DmC, and Metroid Other M.

I found nothing wrong with Metroid: Other M. It was far closer to the original games in terms of play mechanics then the Doom-style play of the Prime trilogy. But I liked all of them anyways. If its about the story then I can agree that they did harp on a bit from time to time which was a little unnecessary, however the game itself was very good. Especially the Ridley introduction/fight.

Quote
I mean seriously, it's like preferring some different people other than Kojima and their team to develop a new Metal Gear.

They had done that with the NES game; Snake's Revenge. I actually enjoyed that game and many of it's innovations were incorporated into the latter of the series. Kojima himself played the game and thought it was very well done. The creator of Metal Gear praised a metal gear game that was not of his own making. That says a lot. No doubt when he brought out MG2: Solid Snake he used some of the innovative ideas found in Snake's revenge to help make his game.
Title: Re: Operation Akumajo preparing for Konami Campaign 9/26/11
Post by: JR on September 21, 2011, 01:02:07 PM
Those operations have more members, have multiple people organise stuff instead of one person, and have demands that everyone can agree on and are more reasonsable. Yet even they don't succeed. Why would you think it would work this time? I'm only saying that to spare people from doing something futile? I just meant that as helpful advice but all I get is CRITICISM!!11!!1 Thanks for taking it so well.


Lol, I think everyone already realizes that going in, though. As a fan, I would support this more out of principle than out of any expectation for success.