Stranger Than Heaven Director Defends Tupac Shakur's Inclusion in New Game
Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio's upcoming game, Stranger Than Heaven, faces scrutiny for featuring the likeness of the late rapper Tupac Shakur. Studio head Masayoshi Yokoyama defended the decision, stating it's a "good idea" and that the game, set in early 20th century Japan, connects to previous titles while standing alone.
Key points
- Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio's new game, Stranger Than Heaven, will feature the likeness of rapper Tupac Shakur.
- Studio head Masayoshi Yokoyama believes Tupac's inclusion is a "good idea".
- The game is set in early 20th century Japan and explores a protagonist's life through changing times and the criminal underworld.
- Stranger Than Heaven is intended to connect to previous RGG Studio games but also stand independently.
- The casting of Tupac Shakur, deceased for 30 years, has generated bewilderment and discussion.
Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio's upcoming title, Stranger Than Heaven, has drawn significant attention, particularly for its decision to incorporate the likeness of the late rapper Tupac Shakur.
Studio head and executive director Masayoshi Yokoyama addressed the controversial casting during an interview. While acknowledging the unusual nature of featuring a figure deceased for three decades, Yokoyama reportedly defended the choice, calling Tupac's inclusion a "good idea." Stranger Than Heaven is set in early 20th century Japan and follows a hapa man's life as it evolves against the backdrop of changing societal times and the burgeoning criminal underworld.
The game aims to maintain connections to the narrative threads of previous Yakuza and Like A Dragon titles developed by RGG Studio, yet it is also designed to be a self-contained experience. The developers utilized many of the established elements from their prior games to craft this more serious, character-driven story. The decision to cast likenesses of prominent figures, including Tupac Shakur, has been a notable point of discussion surrounding the game's announcement and previews.
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