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Feature: 'Go To Synesthesia… Jake Kazdal’s Journey Through The Heart Of Rez'

In today's main feature article (free reg. req.), Matthew Hawkins talks to ex-Sega Japan developer Jake Kazdal about his time working alongside Tetsuya Mizuguchi on the p...

Simon Carless, Blogger

May 6, 2005

1 Min Read
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In today's main feature article (free reg. req.), Matthew Hawkins talks to ex-Sega Japan developer Jake Kazdal about his time working alongside Tetsuya Mizuguchi on the production of Rez, the abstract rhythm-based Dreamcast/PlayStation 2 shooter that is one of the most intriguing titles of the past few years. The feature's introduction explains: "Whatever the reality, it seems that the finer details behind Rez, much like the game itself, are quite enigmatic. Most know that it's the brainchild of Tetsuya Mizuguchi, yet another subdued, but inspired game designer from the East with an eclectic catalogue of games, from a classic cross-terrain racing title (Sega Rally) to a rhythm title starring a spunky intergalactic news reporter (Space Channel 5). Mizuguchi has explained his rationale behind Rez's development a number of times, and provides the compelling viewpoint on its construction, as the game's primary creator. But a little-known fact is that, despite its Japanese origination, there was at least one Westerner working on Rez, and his story is a fascinating one. Jake Kazdal was the only American to work directly on the game as an animator and designer, and he spoke to Gamasutra about his game development background, as well as his time working on Rez and his experiences as a foreigner working at Sega Japan." You can now read the full Gamasutra feature on the subject (free registration required.)

About the Author

Simon Carless

Blogger

Simon Carless is the founder of the GameDiscoverCo agency and creator of the popular GameDiscoverCo game discoverability newsletter. He consults with a number of PC/console publishers and developers, and was previously most known for his role helping to shape the Independent Games Festival and Game Developers Conference for many years.

He is also an investor and advisor to UK indie game publisher No More Robots (Descenders, Hypnospace Outlaw), a previous publisher and editor-in-chief at both Gamasutra and Game Developer magazine, and sits on the board of the Video Game History Foundation.

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