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The Castlevania Dungeon Forums => General Castlevania Discussion => Topic started by: C Belmont on September 04, 2011, 01:11:34 AM

Title: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: C Belmont on September 04, 2011, 01:11:34 AM
I thought I'd do a poll on the reasons why people haven't joined Operation Akumajo for feedback purposes
I hope you don't mind Cecil
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: cecil-kain on September 04, 2011, 01:21:12 AM
I thought I'd do a poll on the reasons why people haven't joined Operation Akumajo for feedback purposes
I hope you don't mind Cecil

That's quite alright --just add the Dark Priest option!  XD

Oh, and you might want to add an option for those that have already joined...
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Sindra on September 04, 2011, 02:00:49 AM
As I have said - Operation Akumajo is a great movement by part of the fanbase to get off our collective asses and do something to spur involvement in getting the franchise heads to listen more to their core fans. It's something more people should be inspired to do, rather than just sitting around bitching about stuff constantly.

That said, I still think the process should be broadened. Instead of specifically demanding certain things out of Konami and the like, it should just be focusing on getting their attention first. All the petitions and movements in the world won't do jack shit unless you manage to wrangle the attention of people first. That means getting the attention of more of the fanbase, and THEN focusing on simply getting the attention of Konami. (or hell, go for lower-hanging fruit and try getting the attention of big-name gamer news sources like Kotaku or Joystiq to have THEM help get Konami's attention)

I think priorities need to be shifted more. Things are on a great track, but it needs to be refined more.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Flame on September 04, 2011, 02:09:27 AM
The fixation on 2D and the IGAVerse as well as being such a demanding operation really turns me away. I agree with preserving 2D, but thats not the only thing I want in Castlevania. I want it to evolve into the 3rd dimension, and although I support thew mythology, being so fixated on it is not something I support
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: KaZudra on September 04, 2011, 02:31:07 AM
Note, I'm the lone vote who joined at the moment.
I joined before knowing the Terms... or in theis case Demands.
The Objectives are too dictator like, and honestly the fixation of Iga is kinda sickening knowing he takes half-baby steps to improve his games but is all up for Gimmicky systems.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: X on September 04, 2011, 03:03:03 AM
I've thrown my name into the hat as Cecil-Kain knows but I don't have a Facebook page nor do I use Twitter. For me Operation: Akumajo is all about getting Konami's attention. Once that's established then we can move on to the more solid arguments.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Chernabogue on September 04, 2011, 06:26:27 AM
I support it, though I don't agree with everything (see post in other topic, stuff, etc.). Moreover, I don't have a FB account.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Successor The Cruel on September 04, 2011, 12:18:53 PM
All the petitions and movements in the world won't do jack shit unless you manage to wrangle the attention of people first. That means getting the attention of more of the fanbase, and THEN focusing on simply getting the attention of Konami.

Thing is, Konami already knows what fans think. At least, if Dave Cox qualifies as "Konami." Judging from past experience, he (the producer) doesn't care what fans think. Well, he doesn't care when it conflicts with what he thinks. My associates and I already presented concerns similar to this operation's (well... in some ways) to him, which he answered in depth. He thinks we essentially don't matter much, because we're such a small percentage of buyers.

He's probably the best bet at getting the attention of the high command. I think it would be difficult to get the attention of some Japanese executive somewhere. But, what I'm getting at is it's not like big Konami officials who can probably do something are unaware of what hardcore fans would like.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Flame on September 04, 2011, 01:12:31 PM
I dont think Cox counts as konami.

Not the Konami that matters anyway. (the Japanese devs and bigwigs)
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: C Belmont on September 04, 2011, 01:21:03 PM
At the same time Cox has also stated that he believes Konami will continue to make 2D games & that LOS can coexist with other games.
The real question is whether the guys up top feel the same way about it or if they are still greedily eying LOS with massive dollar signs painted over their eyes.

I'm far from Cox's biggest fan but I think that ideally Operation Akumjo should be something that even he would happily support (as percular as that may sound)
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Sindra on September 04, 2011, 03:29:56 PM
To me, Dave Cox seems like a overall decent guy who was handed the reigns of a big project with big expectations, got his mind set on a direction, and went with it. I think he did care a bit about what the fans thought (otherwise he wouldn't have responded or even visited fan forums like this one), but perhaps he either had his mind up about what was being argued about and wasn't about to change it, or the Konami heads said "Yeah, don't listen to them. Go with what we told you."

Again, I think a solid way of getting the attention of the bigwigs at the top of Konami, beyond trying to keep in contact with Cox, is to spread the word to other big gamer venues that get alot of video gamer traffic. Kotaku, Joystiq, Destructoid, even GiantBomb and Rely on Horror. Start with shooting the tin cans on the fence before you go aiming at the fortress with a bazooka.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Nagumo on September 04, 2011, 04:02:06 PM
Not that I have something personal against the guy, but Cox doesn't give a crap about what fans think, and his forum visits are evident of that. Him showing up here was only a publicity stunt, and when he noticed people at the Chapel weren't big fans of what he was doing, he quickly disappeared there too.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Harrycombs on September 04, 2011, 10:11:08 PM
Sorry, but I think this is kind of pointless. With Operation Rainfall, they were able to get pretty much the entire Wii fanbase to join in, a long with a lot of the Final Fantasy fanbase because of The Last Story. The Castlevania community is tiny in comparison. I'm afraid you will never get enough support to make a difference, and if you send in a petition with only 200 signatures, that would be kind of sad. I think we just need to accept that Konami just isn't doing anything for us right now. Hopefully we'll have a kick-ass 30th anniversary, or someone will release a great fan game or something to celebrate.

You are asking for Konami to make an entire game. Operation Rainfall is just asking for an American release and Operation Moonfall is just asking for a port of an old game that Nintendo is probably already doing anyway, so they actually have a chance of success. This doesn't really.

I say we just wait and see what Konami does next. Castlevania is kind of searching for its soul and its place right now, and it would probably be best to be patient for a while. Hopefully someone new at Konami can find a way to revive the series with its soul intact.



Also, I don't agree with the dislike of the 3D games. CV64 proved Castlevania can be great in 3D. I want the series to have another shot at 3D.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Pemburu Vampir on September 04, 2011, 11:39:26 PM
Hopefully we'll have a kick-ass 30th anniversary, or someone will release a great fan game or something to celebrate.

There's already something great to celebrate the 25th Anniversary

For all Castlevania's fan! Castlevania special medley 悪魔城ドラキュラ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k2lKRktcD00#)

Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: whitedragon_nall on September 05, 2011, 12:12:15 AM
Listening to it right now. Fantastic so far. Can't even imagine the amount of effort put into this.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: C Belmont on September 05, 2011, 12:15:15 AM
Quote
You are asking for Konami to make an entire game. Operation Rainfall is just asking for an American release and Operation Moonfall is just asking for a port of an old game that Nintendo is probably already doing anyway, so they actually have a chance of success. This doesn't really.

Isn't Soul Calibur V a game being made for fans? although I don't think they put together any kind of operation or anything like
I do remember seeing a few petitions online though.

Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: KaZudra on September 05, 2011, 02:17:25 AM
Isn't Soul Calibur V a game being made for fans? although I don't think they put together any kind of operation or anything like
I do remember seeing a few petitions online though.

Let's hope Soul Calibur V will be an overhaul of IV, Cause SCIV was total shit, graphics were really good though.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Deko21 on September 05, 2011, 02:24:37 AM
Let's hope Soul Calibur V will be an overhaul of IV, Cause SCIV was total shit, graphics were really good though.
If its an overhaul of IV, they better keep CoS and readd the modes from II. Cause ever since III, they've been going backwards when it came to modes.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Successor The Cruel on September 05, 2011, 02:43:26 AM
I'm with Harry on this. This thing has about a snowball's chance in hell of actually making a difference. The Castlevania fanbase, by itself, is too small and too divided.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Flame on September 05, 2011, 05:34:01 AM
depends... Hell sort of has frozen over already.

Duke Nukem Forever, ALMOST Mega Man Legends 3, Marvel vs Capcom 3, Sega actually getting Sonic right, etc.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Sumac on September 05, 2011, 04:54:24 PM
I think it's pointless project, because Konami (as a corporation, not as separate people) doesn't care about small hardcore overbaked fans. They need sales, not approval of the small comunity and actually it's allright. Companies want to sale a product for decent income. And considering how much money game development costs nowadays, games must be bought by everyone. In this case - opinions of comunity doesn't matter.
Of course there is still little chance that Konami "will care" about fans, and will create some cheap project for them (handhel probably), but I won't put my money on it. And quality of this project.

Besides I'm sick of IGA and his "metroidvanias". Farther from SOTN he went (and SOTN wasn't ideal CV, IMHO) worse his games become. In terms of gameplay and in terms of storylines. I personally don't consider AOS and DOS as a Castlevania games much. And POR was ruined by childish presentation and copypasta. Formula is pretty much dead at this point, at least at his hands and I don't want play the same game again. I had enough of it.
I consider LOS is a more perspective direction for the series rather than cloning. For me it was Castlevania enough.

Quote
He thinks we essentially don't matter much, because we're such a small percentage of buyers.
And he is right.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: crisis on September 05, 2011, 05:14:14 PM
Yes Sumac, Konami must no longer cater to so-called "fans," rebooted Castlevania is we must accept, even if it don't resemble original much or at all. We must accept, emotion is meaningless, i am a robot IGA does not compute
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Nagumo on September 05, 2011, 05:37:41 PM
♫ Bring in the money ♫
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: thernz on September 05, 2011, 05:41:39 PM
where are all the los fans who out number us ten to one
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: KaZudra on September 05, 2011, 07:05:23 PM
Yes Sumac, Konami must no longer cater to so-called "fans," rebooted Castlevania is we must accept, even if it don't resemble original much or at all. We must accept, emotion is meaningless, i am a robot IGA does not compute

So a muscle-bound dude running around Gothic architecture whipping up monsters and mythological creatures doesn't resemble the original?
I can get nitpicking but damn, that's a bit of exaggeration.
and for the record, Iga made CoD, which is 100 fold worst than HD and LoS combined.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: crisis on September 05, 2011, 07:18:10 PM
well kinda, "man with whip fights monsters" sums up CV according to COX.. so maybe i was exaggerating a bit


and nobody cares about CoD anymore (except for the music)


or should i say..
(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Deko21 on September 05, 2011, 07:30:17 PM

Besides I'm sick of IGA and his "metroidvanias". Farther from SOTN he went (and SOTN wasn't ideal CV, IMHO) worse his games become. In terms of gameplay and in terms of storylines. I personally don't consider AOS and DOS as a Castlevania games much. And POR was ruined by childish presentation and copypasta. Formula is pretty much dead at this point, at least at his hands and I don't want play the same game again. I had enough of it.
I consider LOS is a more perspective direction for the series rather than cloning. For me it was Castlevania enough.
And he is right.
That's a little harsh don't you think? That's like complaining the classic megaman games or the mario games are all the same cause they all revolve around the same gameplay despite the minor new features.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: KaZudra on September 05, 2011, 07:35:20 PM
the way I see it, I do not have much of a problem with LoS, it could use better storytelling but overall the story with the twist is a fresh new way of putting it.
I accept it since Demon Castle Dracula was about.... Dracula. versus LoI this origin story just exposes how bad Iga's minimalist approach was to 3dvania (and the DS era).
Some elements were forced, but hey, I'm familiar with comic books, they Reboot the story every time you turn around just to later go back t the original story and tie it up or continue it.
LoS did have its flaws, mostly the unneeded elements (forced puzzles, colossi battles, overblown 12 track soundtrack that tires quickly)
I hope LoS2 would fix all that mess and make it enjoyable to all the other castlevania fans.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Flame on September 05, 2011, 08:36:36 PM
Not EVERYTHING about Castlevania is gothic.

Some of the games that start OUTSIDE the castle come to mind. How about for example, CV2? doesnt that have you go through a statue and roman pillar filled stage? after which you fight the cyclops?

or Bloodlines which goes all around Europe to actual locations.

Also, Man with a whip fighting monsters IS what defines castlevania.

of note-
Gabriel is Ford tough. He's built like John Morris!
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: crisis on September 05, 2011, 10:00:42 PM
what's cool about that is you can describe anything the same way cox does  :D

Mega Man- robot fights robots in robotic world
Indiana Jones- man with whip finds stuff
Final Fantasy/All RPGs- friends team up to battle demi-god
Dragon Ball Z- people fight eachother
Zelda- boy with sword fights monsters
Metroid- girl in space fights aliens
Contra- guys with guns shoot stuff
Evil Dead- man with weapons fights monsters
Assassin's Creed- men in hoods sneaks around

all other details are subjective, of course
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: KaZudra on September 05, 2011, 10:02:43 PM
what's cool about that is you can describe anything the same way Uwe Boll does  :D

Mega Man- robot fights robots in robotic world
Indiana Jones- man with whip finds stuff
Final Fantasy/All RPGs- friends team up to battle demi-god
Dragon Ball Z- people fight eachother
Zelda- boy with sword fights monsters
Metroid- girl in space fights aliens
Contra- guys with guns shoot stuff
Evil Dead- man with weapons fights monsters
Assassin's Creed- men in hoods sneaks around

I'm sorry, I couldn't resist XD
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Kingshango on September 05, 2011, 10:12:24 PM
And here we go again, no matter what topic gets started It slowly become just another Lords of Shadow hate- a -thon/ defend -a -thon and a IGA hate-a thon/Defend -a -thon.


There should be a topic made to settle things between both camps once and for all to keep other topics(like this one) from getting derailed.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: KaZudra on September 05, 2011, 10:17:47 PM
And here we go again, no matter what topic gets started It slowly become just another Lords of Shadow hate- a -thon/ defend -a -thon and a IGA hate-a thon/Defend -a -thon.


There should be a topic made to settle things between both camps once and for all to keep other topics(like this one) from getting derailed.

okay, then, now we can get back on topic.
(that thread you were talking about is below)
http://castlevaniadungeon.net/forums/index.php/topic,4023.0.html (http://castlevaniadungeon.net/forums/index.php/topic,4023.0.html)
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Flame on September 05, 2011, 10:18:17 PM
And here we go again, no matter what topic gets started It slowly become just another Lords of Shadow hate- a -thon/ defend -a -thon and a IGA hate-a thon/Defend -a -thon.


There should be a topic made to settle things between both camps once and for all to keep other topics(like this one) from getting derailed.
Because thats all Operation Akumajo is.
"We hate LoS and the way it reinvented Castlevania, we demand only 2D games and IGA games back"
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: crisis on September 05, 2011, 10:19:50 PM
Quote from: Kingshango
And here we go again, no matter what topic gets started It slowly become just another Lords of Shadow hate- a -thon/ defend -a -thon and a IGA hate-a thon/Defend -a -thon.

but it's so funnnnnnnnnnn
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Kingshango on September 05, 2011, 10:22:43 PM
but it's so funnnnnnnnnnn

Then go to the showdown thread that Kamui made and use %100 of your power there.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Harrycombs on September 06, 2011, 12:23:58 AM
There's already something great to celebrate the 25th Anniversary

For all Castlevania's fan! Castlevania special medley 悪魔城ドラキュラ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k2lKRktcD00#)

That is amazing.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Neobelmont on September 06, 2011, 01:55:33 AM
The reason I have not joined yet is because I do not have a facebook also I just don't want to stay 2-D now I like 2-D a lot do not get me wrong but I am looking toward a bright future staying 2-D after some time will get boring. Also on another  I really hate the failure comes into 3-D part I don't care what anyone says that comes off to me like a defeatist and very negative attitude sure not every one agrees with 3-D but that does not give a group that is trying to reach people to say such a phrase (so I guess that is the main reason) it dissuades me greatly and I do not want such a feeling when it concerns something I have enjoyed for so long.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: jestercolony on September 06, 2011, 07:46:41 AM
Honestly, OA is honestly a good idea.

But I for one - have joined because I too am angered at the fact that Konami sits there as we get shat on while other franchises from the very same company get a more high treatment (I.e Silent Hill.) Metal Gear was as small as Castlevania back in the 80s and recently didn't get big until 1998's release of Metal Gear Solid.

This honestly my reasoning for this is that LoS was a good title; but it just because it's a new form of a storyline doesn't mean it has actually seperated the fan base. LoS could have been more than what we had been given and honestly - if I took the time to sit down and write out an entire essay as to why, even the Dungeon itself would see it. 

There are  three types of CV titles

Classic
Exploration
3D

Each, apparently has spread out the fanbase. Why is this? Because you all forget the one major thing that what Castlevania is about: A tribute to Horror Movie Monsters.

I'm honestly tired of seeing what people think they know what Castlevania is about, or what they want to see. It's not gothic enough, the platforming sucks, oh no it will do horrible in 3D or its horrible in 2D or whatever.

Honestly, I can see a case as to why Konami chooses not to listen to the fanbase because of its lack of unity. Look, we have our own ideas. But there is a lot more going on the franchise than what most people do not actually take the time to sit down and study. We are forgotten the true meaning behind the franchise because of all this b/s that has been going on.

People are complaining about LoS is a revamp. Here's a little tip for you: You do KNOW that Kojima-san  is known for surprises  and it is more than likely this "revamp" was called out to piss off the original fanbase of the original canon to get us to buy the game.


*this is slightly off subject V *

Btw - Pro Tip: YOU do know that Dracula called Elizabeth "Marie", out of the fact it was her LAST name and only says her FULL name when he yearns for her. It was out of respect and love. For all we know the name is Elizabetha Marie "Belmont". As IGA had said before: There is a LOT more going on in the series than what we know of and Konami -refuses- to release that information.

Not to mention the series has been heavily censored back in the 80s and 90s by Nintendo...etc. So please keep that in mind when looking at this "Revamp", I'm honestly very skeptical that it is a revamp and it is in fact the real story that has been waiting to be told since the beginning of the series.
***

So honestly? OA is on the right track for actually bringing back the unity of the fanbase instead of seeing it ripped apart.  2D needs to be preserved and respected; but 3D is a must also. Reason to this is that kids these days really have no interest in the "old school" as times have changed. This isn't the 80s or 90s anymore. The days of the FX chip are gone my friends. :)
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: C Belmont on September 06, 2011, 09:23:46 AM
Quote
Not to mention the series has been heavily censored back in the 80s and 90s by Nintendo...etc. So please keep that in mind when looking at this "Revamp", I'm honestly very skeptical that it is a revamp and it is in fact the real story that has been waiting to be told since the beginning of the series.


Well thats certainly a new one
Of course I think it's clutching at straws. It is interesting though that both at the end of Simons quest and the start of Super Castlevania IV it looks as though Dracula has been given a proper burial despite being such a tyrant.

Quote
Btw - Pro Tip: YOU do know that Dracula called Elizabeth "Marie", out of the fact it was her LAST name and only says her FULL name when he yearns for her. It was out of respect and love. For all we know the name is Elizabetha Marie "Belmont". As IGA had said before: There is a LOT more going on in the series than what we know of and Konami -refuses- to release that information.


Maybe it's just because I'm tired but I'm not sure I understand what your getting at here
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: crystos on September 06, 2011, 09:47:55 AM
i agree with the 1999 game. I dont need IGA to make another sotn clone tho. I guess i am one of the few who  really liked lords o shadow granted the whole satan/belmont dracula thing was hard to swallow..but it was a hell of a game over all.

I also agree that konami ignoring castlevani's 25 anniversary is awful
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Nagumo on September 06, 2011, 10:41:31 AM
Then go to the showdown thread that Kamui made and use %100 of your power there.

Topic locked. Thanks, Jorge.  >:(
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Successor The Cruel on September 06, 2011, 11:32:44 AM
where are all the los fans who out number us ten to one

They don't exist. If LoS was some monster hit with legions of devout fans, I'm sure this fanbase wouldn't seem as dead and tired as it is now. It would be bustling with activity and anticipation instead of floundering in doubt, dismay, and discontent.

Also, Man with a whip fighting monsters IS what defines castlevania.

That is way oversimplifying it. It takes a lot more than that to present a convincing Castlevania game. Anyone who really believes that is missing a lot of points. It's like baking a cake and leaving out practically all the ingredients. I guess that's what Lords of Shadow did. Well, not only did it leave out several key ingredients, it added the wrong ones, as well, and came out as a misshapen monstrosity - God of Shadow of the Lord of the Rings-Vania.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Nagumo on September 06, 2011, 11:39:19 AM
It's the execution of the concept that Lords does all wrong. That's the problem in a nutshell. 
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: crisis on September 06, 2011, 12:44:04 PM
Which is why I'm comfortable with calling LoS "Castlevania: The Game of the Movie"  ;)
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: cecil-kain on September 06, 2011, 12:51:17 PM
Because thats all Operation Akumajo is.
"We hate LoS and the way it reinvented Castlevania, we demand only 2D games and IGA games back"

Flame, please do not misrepresent the group's mission statement.  Here it is for your review.

Quote
We are an activist community dedicated to preserving the heart and soul of Castlevania as we have known it for 25 years.  We fully embrace the legacy of 2-D action-platforming, as well as the legendary rivalry between Count Dracula and the Belmont Clan.  We have named ourselves "Akumajo" in honor of Castlevania's Japanese origins, but also as a counterpoint to Konami's recent attempt to reboot and westernize the Castlevania brand.  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.

For years, we have endured a love/hate relationship with our friends at Konami over their treatment of Castlevania.  We remember waiting 14 years for Rondo of Blood to reach western shores.  We lamented multiple attempts to reinvent Castlevania in 3-D.  We grumbled over cheapening production values and shamelessly recycled content.  And now we gnash our teeth at the possibility that Lords of Shadow may indeed be replacing the Castlevania legacy we know and love.

Recently, we were outraged to learn that Konami had not announced any plans to celebrate Castlevania’s 25th Anniversary in any meaningful way whatsoever.  After so many years of loyal support on our part, we felt this particular oversight was one dishonor too many.  Therefore, we have finally joined together to make our displeasure known, and to challenge Konami to hold itself and Castlevania to a higher standard.

First, we believe Konami should finish the original continuity by reinstating Koji Igarashi to produce the "1999 Demon Castle War" as it was originally foretold by Aria of Sorrow over 8 years ago.  Naturally, we expect this game to honor the Castlevania legacy by embracing the highest standards of 2-D gameplay, graphics, and design.

Secondly, we concede the Castlevania brand needs a reboot --however, we insist the traditional mythology be respected in doing so.  Therefore, we believe Konami needs to redesign and remaster Castlevania III: Dracula's Curse.  Revisiting these old roots will properly introduce a new generation of players to the Castlevania story, and also pay appropriate tribute to longtime fans of the series.  We expect this remake to honor the original, but also demonstrate the same high standards desired of the Demon Castle War.

Castlevania has been in decline for a very long time.  Therefore, these games must be treated as serious investments with adequate resources, time, and attention to reach their full potential.  Moreover, we also insist that both games be developed in high definition for release on modern home consoles.  Over 14 years have passed since Symphony of the Night, and we have waited far too long...

If you agree with our aims and objectives, please “like” our page on Facebook to help us grow.  Castlevania’s 25th Anniversary arrives officially on September 26, 2011 and we’re planning to celebrate...

As you can see.  We are NOT calling for Lords of Shadow to be ABANDONED --we are calling for the traditional mythology and 2-D gameplay to be PROTECTED.  There IS a difference.  And as I stated in the other topic, there will be a LoS sequel made regardless of any fan outcry, because Konami is pleased by the sales and will ultimately follow the money.

And yes we demand 2-D games because we believe 2-D is the superior artform for Castlevania.  Konami has already shown their willingness to damage the brand by pushing mediocre 3-D titles --regardless of critical feedback or poor sales.  Now that LoS actually appears to be viable, they've become emboldened and there's simply no stopping them.

So with the future of 3-D secured, that leaves us wondering about 2-D.  Remember that portables are no longer the safe haven they used to be --Konami may well ask Mercury Steam to make 3-D Castlevanias for the handhelds too.  The threat here is that Lords of Shadow is poised to replace the traditional mythology and the 2-D gameplay --and even our members that loved Lords of Shadow don't want to see that happen.

As for IGA --he's only needed for Demon Castle War.  That's all.

Hope that clears a few things up.

OH!  One last thing.  I asked you in the other topic about the multiversal approach --where these vastly different games can coexist side by side...  Is it so hard to live and let live?  Why must one replace the other?  And why must the Castlevania name be used to sell a game that was obviously strong enough to stand on its own 2 feet?  I wonder how much of this would have been averted if Konami were bold enough to say "let's launch a new IP and call it Lords of Shadow"...
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Ahasverus on September 06, 2011, 12:55:59 PM
I'm starting to think that some people's mind is too small to handle 2 different separate continuities.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: cecil-kain on September 06, 2011, 12:59:46 PM
I'm starting to think that some people's mind is too small to handle 2 different separate continuities.

Flamebait.

Read the edit I just posted.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Kingshango on September 06, 2011, 01:00:44 PM
This is why I feel OA wont work, no one here knows what they want out of Castlevania anymore and the fanbase it too divided and will continue to be for a long LONG time by the looks of it. The only thing we can all agree with is that we want more Castlevania and that's where the agreement starts and ends because so many people want something different out of Castlevania weather it be 2D/3D, old continuity/ new continuity, Classicvania/Metroidvania etc. So trying to get an divided fanbase to take action against a million/billion dollar company, that quite frankly doesn't give a shit about what we think and only follows the money, is a wasted effort.

I want to believe in the efforts of OA and I want to believe it will make a difference but sadly, it's like beliving in Santa Claus and pro wrestling is real.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Ahasverus on September 06, 2011, 01:02:39 PM
Flamebait.

Read the edit I just posted.
Not talking precisely about you
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: cecil-kain on September 06, 2011, 01:16:48 PM
This is why I feel OA wont work, no one here knows what they want out of Castlevania anymore and the fanbase it too divided and will continue to be for a long LONG time by the looks of it. The only thing we can all agree with is that we want more Castlevania and that's where the agreement starts and ends because so many people want something different out of Castlevania weather it be 2D/3D, old continuity/ new continuity, Classicvania/Metroidvania etc. So trying to get an divided fanbase to take action against a million/billion dollar company, that quite frankly doesn't give a shit about what we think and only follows the money, is a wasted effort.

I want to believe in the efforts of OA and I want to believe it will make a difference but sadly, it's like beliving in Santa Claus and pro wrestling is real.

IMO the divided fanbase is the only real problem to overcome.  Quite frankly, I thought it would be easier to get everyone fired up about preserving traditional 2-D Castlevania --after all that's how most of us became fans in the first place.  It's kinda like politics --some people will throw their votes away if they can't find a candidate that agrees with them 100%.  I also understand the cynicism that's out there, but if we make the effort to have our voices heard --we can at least say that we tried instead of trapping ourselves in a defeatist mindset.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: jestercolony on September 06, 2011, 01:20:32 PM
2D period needs to be preserved because its an old art form regardless what franchise uses it. Castlevania is one said franchise that holds strongly with this. I agree upon this; but this makes this group of activist seem more like a historical group (which honestly is cool!) but times are changing and we are all getting old :(
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Jorge D. Fuentes on September 06, 2011, 01:46:12 PM
Not talking precisely about you

But you ARE talking about people here, so you are still flamebaiting by snidely insulting.
Curb that.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Sindra on September 06, 2011, 02:11:32 PM
Ahasverus sniping at people who may have slighted Lords of Shadow? Heavens, I didn't see that coming!  :P

Basically Cecil, I think what you should be focusing on, rather than going and dictating how the CV games should be produced and so on, is simply getting Konami to acknowledge the fans AT ALL. We can't very well call for 2D traditional Castlevania games, when we're getting nothing saying we're going to have any Castlevania games at all in the near future. You should be calling attention to the fanbase IN GENERAL, rather than specifying exactly what you want from the get go.

PRIORITIZE. You should set out goals, and once those goals are met, THEN continue with the next more specific goal. It should be something like this:

Gather followers--->gain notoriety through gaming news outlets--->gets Konami's attention in ANY way--->specify your desires (not demands)




Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Kingshango on September 06, 2011, 02:31:32 PM
^^^
Listen to Sindra, she's knows whats up.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Sumac on September 06, 2011, 02:53:18 PM
Quote
Yes Sumac, Konami must no longer cater to so-called "fans," rebooted Castlevania is we must accept, even if it don't resemble original much or at all. We must accept, emotion is meaningless, i am a robot IGA does not compute
For me LOS resmble Castlevania, so your opinion is just...your opinion, not a truth.
As for the emotions - it's better think with logic and see reality, rather than degrade yourself into whining child that couldn't think out of it's box and see every change as a corruption of it's ideal game. Though of course fandoms, epecially old ones, mostly consist from whining children, so it's not surprising that opposite or even moderate opinion will be ridiculed.

Quote
That's a little harsh don't you think? That's like complaining the classic megaman games or the mario games are all the same cause they all revolve around the same gameplay despite the minor new features.
I am not big fan of neither franchises. Besides in case of Mario there are many games that's not even platformers, so argument about him is invalid.
I like changes. I like to see old games, old ideas in the new light with the new approach, even if it's radical department from what was done before. If I want to play Castlevania with the "metroidvania" gameplay - there is plenty of them. I want something new maybe even something experimental, given it will have neccesary quality and support general theme of the series.

Quote
So honestly? OA is on the right track for actually bringing back the unity of the fanbase instead of seeing it ripped apart.  2D needs to be preserved and respected; but 3D is a must also. Reason to this is that kids these days really have no interest in the "old school" as times have changed. This isn't the 80s or 90s anymore. The days of the FX chip are gone my friends.

Totally agree. Especially that people must understand that 90-s long gone.

Quote
It takes a lot more than that to present a convincing Castlevania game.
So what else there should be to create Castlevania game that fit some mythological "standarts"?  :)

Quote
And yes we demand 2-D games because we believe 2-D is the superior artform for Castlevania.
I don't believe. 2D days come and go. I'm perfectly OK with series transition in 3D. CV64 was a good game. LOI had potential. LOS was good. All of them give what I wanted from the Castlevania and what I couldn't find in latest 2D titles.

Quote
IMO the divided fanbase is the only real problem to overcome.
It's mostly impossible since fandom was divided so many times, you need a miracle to make all of the fans unite. Like ultimate Castlevania game that will satisfy absolutely everyone. Or complete death of the franchise.
And since such ultimate CV is impossible, due to aforementioned reason, and Konami have they views on the future of the series (as of now), than unifying fanbase is impossible as well.

In order to unite people you need some goal, target that will be supported by the majority of people. In the case of OA there is no such goal.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: SenileSnake on September 06, 2011, 03:20:28 PM
I didn't join it because it's dumb and I don't want everyone to know I am part of a dumb thing.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: crisis on September 06, 2011, 03:22:07 PM
I never said my opinion was truth, but it's certainly the more popular one. Believe it or not you're in the minority when you say "LoS is more CV-like than IGA's 2D games"... which is fine if you or others feel that way.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: DarkPrinceAlucard on September 06, 2011, 03:23:36 PM
.
It's mostly impossible since fandom was divided so many times, you need a miracle to make all of the fans unite. Like ultimate Castlevania game that will satisfy absolutely everyone. Or complete death of the franchise.
And since such ultimate CV is impossible, due to aforementioned reason, and Konami have they views on the future of the series (as of now), than unifying fanbase is impossible as well.

In order to unite people you need some goal, target that will be supported by the majority of people. In the case of OA there is no such goal.

I have said once before that I think Konami should take a page from Sega's book.

Look at Sonic Generations for example.

It is a game made to cater to new and old fans.

And so far the majority of the fanbase has come together and united and all have love for this new entry into the sonic saga.

Why the hell can't Konami do something similar?

Like make a game that caters to new and old fans?
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: cecil-kain on September 06, 2011, 03:33:28 PM
Ahasverus sniping at people who may have slighted Lords of Shadow? Heavens, I didn't see that coming!  :P

Basically Cecil, I think what you should be focusing on, rather than going and dictating how the CV games should be produced and so on, is simply getting Konami to acknowledge the fans AT ALL. We can't very well call for 2D traditional Castlevania games, when we're getting nothing saying we're going to have any Castlevania games at all in the near future. You should be calling attention to the fanbase IN GENERAL, rather than specifying exactly what you want from the get go.

PRIORITIZE. You should set out goals, and once those goals are met, THEN continue with the next more specific goal. It should be something like this:

Gather followers--->gain notoriety through gaming news outlets--->gets Konami's attention in ANY way--->specify your desires (not demands)

The purpose of the first Youtube video was to introduce the group and its premise --which is basically the mission statement in a more visual sort of form.  Right now I'm working on a 25th Anniversary Tribute...  A good friend of mine has a lot of experience in marketing and one thing he suggested was to leverage the 25th Anniversary as an opportunity to call attention to the Castlevania brand and give Konami "free publicity"  Creating a 25th Anniversary Tribute (even an amateur one) is already more than what they're doing.  After that, I think the endgame will look something like fans coming together to create video testimonials about their appreciation and desire for Castlevania, what the games have meant to them over the years etc...  Operation Akumajo can then host the videos and help them circulate as part of a viral effort.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Chernabogue on September 06, 2011, 03:39:31 PM
If OA is interested in fan tributes for CV's 25th Anniversary, I may have somthing for you.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: cecil-kain on September 06, 2011, 03:43:51 PM
If OA is interested in fan tributes for CV's 25th Anniversary, I may have somthing for you.

What did you have in mind?
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Chernabogue on September 06, 2011, 04:12:59 PM
What did you have in mind?
Vampire Variations: A Musical Tribute to Castlevania (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GrBQjzzY2i0#ws) (Old preview is old.) It will be released soon and may need some exposure.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: cecil-kain on September 06, 2011, 04:50:22 PM
Vampire Variations: A Musical Tribute to Castlevania (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GrBQjzzY2i0#ws) (Old preview is old.) It will be released soon and may need some exposure.

This is exactly the sort of thing that should be coming up on Youtube when you search "Castlevania 25th Anniversary"  sadly there is very little to speak of...  One thing I would suggest is sharpening the quality of the video for a more polished final product.  I really wish I had the tools to record some high quality game footage, but even if I did --well, I'm already putting alot of time into this effort...  So anything the fanbase can do to generate 25th Anniversary buzz and take some of the burden off of my shoulders is a good thing. :-)

After I'm done with this next video I think I really need to take a break before the Anniversary actually arrives --it's not far off anymore...
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Sindra on September 06, 2011, 05:41:42 PM
I was gonna say that Chern has something coming down the pipeline that would fit.


I too will be doing a 25th Anniversary "In Review' vid in the next few weeks.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Kingshango on September 06, 2011, 05:45:37 PM
That sounds nice, looking forward too it. :)
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: crisis on September 06, 2011, 05:50:31 PM
I'm looking forward to listening to your sweet voices as well.. ;)
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Sumac on September 07, 2011, 10:42:39 AM
Quote
Why the hell can't Konami do something similar?
Like make a game that caters to new and old fans?
Harmony of Despair?  ;D

Plenty of old and new things, but in general exectuted wrong on so many levels. Personally I don't believe that they could do it right. Epsecially if IGA has something to do with it.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Deko21 on September 07, 2011, 10:11:21 PM
Just one question, how can they do it right?
I mean most of the games are flawed in some way, but still.

Kinda mind boggling.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Sindra on September 07, 2011, 11:34:09 PM
Just one question, how can they do it right?
I mean most of the games are flawed in some way, but still.

Kinda mind boggling.

Being "Right" is a subjective term, since everyone has differing tastes and preferences. It's trial and error, and sales usually dictate what sticks.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Successor The Cruel on September 08, 2011, 03:50:07 PM
I too will be doing a 25th Anniversary "In Review' vid in the next few weeks.

Mmm, 25th anniversary. Maybe it's time I finally get back to updating my website and opening my forum. My friend and I have also got a big ass Castlevania Youtube Channel that can come in handy with raising awareness about what fans think about Castlevania and showing people actually care about it and how it's handled. As for Operation Akumajo in particular, I can't say I agree with it, so I don't think I can do anything about that.
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: VladCT on September 08, 2011, 04:08:18 PM
Vampire Variations: A Musical Tribute to Castlevania (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GrBQjzzY2i0#ws) (Old preview is old.) It will be released soon and may need some exposure.
You know, the Stalker remix sounds somewhat similar to FFVIII's The Man with the Machine Gun to me. Then again, I'm listening to it in the middle of the night, so my ears might be playing tricks on me. :-\
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Gambit Belmont on September 09, 2011, 01:06:57 AM
Another Reason: I didn't even know about it until now! :o

But technically I should have clicked 'I have already joined', because now I know about it :D
Title: Re: Why haven't you joined Operation Akumajo?
Post by: Colin B. on September 09, 2011, 01:25:19 PM
I joined because I want them to do something for the 25th anniversary, but for the rest of the objects, I really care nothing about. I thought Lords of Shadow was the best thing to happen to the franchise in ages, and there seems like there is a lot of hate toward that game. I'm all up for 2D and 2.5 D games, don't get me wrong. I'd love to see what they would do with Castlevania III.

I just wanted something for the anniversary....