Back in September of 2013 Project Phoenix, a mix of real-time strategy and JRPG gameplay, got funded to the tune of just over one million dollars (roughly 1000% funded). This campaign brought together several talented game developers from both Western and Eastern nations to work on this ambitious title. Almost two years later, after regularly updating their backers, Hiroaki Yura has confessed on what’s taking so long.
It’s not unheard of to see games delayed way past their “estimated delivery date”, and most backers are willing to wait for a finished product, but the latest update for Project Phoenix (released last week) can leave a rather bitter taste in one’s mouth. Hiroaki Yura stated that he had to take on a number of jobs during the week and only worked on the game during the evening and on weekends.
Generally, that information isn’t much of a concern as it’s something that can happen. The disturbing news, though, and one that some backers have commented on, is that he had to dip into his own personal funds to help with some commissioned pieces. Considering that Project Phoenix managed to get seven digits for development this does send up a bit of a red flag.
The other major piece of news in the update is that the writers for Project Phoenix have just started working on the story concept. With it being roughly 1 3/4 years after the end of the campaign it’s a bit jarring to hear that one of the main areas is just being started now. That said, they are committed to finishing the game even if it does mean a longer development cycle.
Hi Serena,
Thanks for the great article! Just wanted to point out that I didn’t apologise for the lack of progress, rather a lack of updates concerning Project Phoenix.
Otherwise, I didn’t word it correctly but the story is done for Project Phoenix, we’re just working on side quest stories that would touch on the history and the world of Azuregard.
In regards to myself funding part of the project, well, firstly the scope we’re aiming for is a bit more than what Kickstarter gave us in funds. And the sidequests and history lessons within Project Phoenix is purely my own will to add this content and in no way should “raise a red flag”.
Anyway, keep up the great journalism, love your work on this site and let me know if you have any questions in relation to Project Phoenix.
Hiro
Thank you for clarifying the update. I’ll admit that I haven’t been following the project closely so it seems like I got some of my facts mixed up. I was going purely by what was said in the update. And you’re right about the funds. I’ve seen a good deal of projects go over budget and they had to dip into their own pockets. I could have worded that part of my article better.
And thank you for the kind words about my writing. It means a lot to me.
There is a new update, that explain some things.
That is a huge relief to hear! The difference between main story and side content beginning development is huge, and I’m sure everyone else who read the initial update was very worried as well. Thanks for chiming in, and good luck on the ambitious project!
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