Kidzworld was lucky enough to get an EXCLUSIVE interview with the developer of Pokémon HeartGold and Pokémon SoulSilver - GameFreak! Check it out!
KW: Why did it take you 10 years to bring fans these two new installments - Pokémon HeartGold and Pokémon SoulSilver?
GF: We always seek something new. Therefore, we don't allow ourselves to simply recreate the original game without any new elements or surprises. We wouldn't do a straight port because it isn't fair to our fans. We needed 10 years to make an ideal game for us.
KW: How do these games utilize the touch screen feature of the Nintendo DS/DSi?
GF: We utilized and designed the touch screen feature so players could handle the game as comfortably as possible. We spend so much time designing the touch screen features so players could do a lot of things on the bottom screen. It made us cry! (laugh)
KW: Pokémon HeartGold and Pokémon SoulSilver are the first games that let any Pokémon follow behind the trainer. Why did you decide to let players take Pokémon out of the Poké Ball?
GF: Because we wanted to make the Pokémon world more rich and immersive. We took the idea from Pokémon Yellow.
KW: What's different about the game's design?
GF: There is no difference in terms of seeking and expressing the fun aspects of the game. Of course, the new functions available in the Nintendo DS gave us more opportunities to express our design ideas. Because we have different hardware now, the breadth of game design has broadened. As a result, we were able to create new game elements such as walking with your Pokémon and the Pokéwalker. Another difference is that now you can play the game by touching the bottom screen. It is fun that different controls create a different experience.
KW: What's different about the soundtrack?
GF: We trusted the sound team to do everything. The music was arranged very well, added fun to the game, and makes you nostalgic while at the same time providing a feeling of newness. I highly recommend this game of course!
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