Suda51: "Too much emphasis is placed on Metacritic scores"

Goichi 'Suda51' Suda, a seasoned figure in the gaming world known for creating No More Heroes, expresses concern over the industry's reliance on Metacritic scores for assessing a game's success.

In a detailed discussion with GamesIndustry.biz, both Suda and his renowned compatriot Shinji Mikami explored why unique gaming titles, like those created by them, are scarce. Suda suggested that this might be because companies prioritize review scores excessively.

Suda stated, "Too much emphasis is placed on Metacritic ratings. The process has almost become formulaic—follow certain steps to achieve a high Metacritic score," he described.

He further explained that games deviating from this established formula might score lower, leading larger developers to shy away from such projects. "It might not be the only reason, but it's definitely a factor. The focus on scores is overwhelming."

He added that his primary concern isn’t the Metacritic ratings, but rather ensuring that they release the games they are passionate about and that people have the opportunity to play them.

Suda did admit he occasionally checks Metacritic, particularly following a release by his studio, Grasshopper Manufacture.

"Sometimes we've been hit with a zero from a media outlet, which is disappointing. It's extreme," he chuckled. "But overall, I steer clear of Metacritic."

Mikami shared the view that many unconventional games exist but don't receive much attention. "They get overshadowed by the extensive marketing of big-budget titles," he noted.

"Games with significant marketing efforts need to appeal to a wide audience," Mikami explained, "whereas more distinctive games don’t have the same level of marketability."

For a more in-depth look at their thoughts, you can read the full interview with Suda and Mikami here, which also delves into the updates on their project Shadows of the Damned and the unmaterialized third project, Zombie Rider.