‘It’s a different kind of anxiety’: Suda51 tells us why Romeo is a Dead Man is crucial for Grasshopper

February 9, 2026 - 18:14

Goichi Suda, the iconic game director known as Suda51, has revealed that the upcoming title Romeo is a Dead Man represents a crucial creative endeavor for his studio, Grasshopper Manufacture. He describes the development process as generating a "different kind of anxiety" compared to previous projects, stemming from the intense ambition and high personal stakes involved in this original intellectual property.

Suda emphasized that successfully launching this self-owned game is vital for the studio's future independence and artistic direction. The project allows the team to fully express their unique, offbeat vision without external constraints, a freedom they deeply cherish. This move is seen as a strategic effort to solidify Grasshopper's identity in the modern gaming landscape.

In a wide-ranging discussion, Suda also reflected on his professional roots, paying tribute to his mentor in the world of wrestling game development. Furthermore, he offered lighthearted advice to travelers, sharing his personal recommendations for must-visit locations across Japan, showcasing his deep fondness for his home country's culture and scenery. The director's comments highlight a studio at a defining moment, balancing legacy with ambitious new creation.