Saga Creator Says Gameplay Is More Important Than Story in a Game

The SaGa franchise by Square Enix has always gone against the grain of traditional RPGs. In a recent interview with Denfaminicogamer, Akitoshi Kawazu, the creator of the series, shared his insights on what makes a game truly unforgettable. For him, the SaGa Glimmering system provides a far more powerful experience than a carefully crafted story.

Saga Creator Says Gameplay Is More Important Than Story in a Game

What is the Glimmering system?

Also known as “tech sparking,” the Glimmering system is a staple feature of the SaGa games. Instead of following a linear character progression path, the games allow characters to spontaneously learn new techniques during battle. Depending on factors like enemy strength, weapon or magic used, and even luck, a character can suddenly gain inspiration and unleash a brand-new skill mid-combat.

This unexpected discovery delivers a surge of excitement. According to Kawazu, these moments of personal victory and surprise are where the emotional peak lies in gaming.

This unexpected discovery delivers a surge of excitement. According to Kawazu, these moments of personal victory and surprise are where the emotional peak lies in gaming.

How SaGa’s Glimmering system delivers unique gameplay highs

Kawazu believes the most thrilling part of a game isn’t in its plot but in the tension and relief of battle. The feeling of almost losing and then finally triumphing over a tough boss leaves a stronger impression than progressing through story scenes.

“Glimmering is loved because it ties directly to the feeling of victory,” Kawazu explains. “When a new technique appears and saves the player in battle, that moment sticks with you.”

Despite relying on luck, the system is designed to remain engaging. It encourages players to change equipment, buff beforehand, and experiment. This trial-and-error approach becomes part of the fun, and even minor progress motivates players to keep going.

Narrative as a secondary layer

Kawazu also shared that he doesn’t place much value on praise for a game’s story. “If it’s just about the narrative, it might as well be a novel or a movie,” he said. “What makes games special is the ability to give players experiences unique only to them.”

He fondly recalls a personal moment in Romancing SaGa 3, where he defeated the final boss thanks to Paul learning the skill Golden Dragon mid-fight. “At that moment, I thought: this game is amazing,” he said.

For Kawazu, it’s these unpredictable, personal victories that define a great game. And this is precisely where the SaGa Glimmering system shines brighter than even the best-written stories.

via Você Sabia Anime