Namco Bandai recently announced a new game in the Splatterhouse series, one that would revisit the mythos and reboot the franchise instead of being a true sequel. Electronic Gaming Monthly (EGM) had the scoop with lots of great details and screen shots of Rick’s latest foray into the macabre mansion of Dr. West. As major Splatterhouse fans ourselves, Sega-16 knocked on Namco’s door in hopes of getting some insight on how the game compares to the previous Genesis releases, as well as what we could expect from the gameplay. Namco was gracious enough to let us chat with the game’s two producers, and we have the complete interview available for you! Set aside the hockey masks and meat cleavers, and take some time to read up on the rebirth of a classic!
Interviews
Interview: Lee Actor (Sterling Software Programmer)
The Genesis was never meant to run 3D games, and no one ever expected it to, upon its release. Apparently, no one told that to Lee Actor and his company Sterling Silver Software (later renamed Polygames). During the 16-bit era, Lee brought over half a dozen fully poligonal 3D games to the Genesis, including Hard Drivin’ and Steel Talons. Along the way, he found time to launch the PGA Tour Golf franchise and program Sonic Spinball.
Interview: Steve DeFrisco (Digital Pictures Programmer)
The impact Digital Pictures had on gaming is still being felt today. Sega-16 had an opportunity for some Q&A with former DP programmer Steve DeFrisco. He was there when FMV games were at their apex, and he now shares his insight on what it was like to work at such an intriguing company.
Interview: Al Nilsen (SOA Head of Global Marketing)
Working at Sega of America during its heyday offered a chance to see a company on the rise. From the birth of a certain blue hedgehog to the introduction of a CD add-on, there was always something Sega-related in the news. One of the people responsible for ensuring that the company was always in the limelight was Al Nilsen, former head of Sega’s marketing division. During his tenure, he oversaw the birth of Sonic, the creation of Sega Visions, and the much beloved Sega Scream. Sega-16 recently chatted with Mr. Nilsen and got the goods on a bunch of 16-bit morsels of news.
Interview: Toshiyasu Morita (SOA Technical Director)
Everyone has their own opinion about the 32X. Love it or hate it, it’s an important piece of Sega’s history. Always looking for the full story, Sega-16 recently interviewed Toshiyasu Morita, a technical director at Sega of America, who was involved with the development and release of the little mushroom. He also had a hand in such titles as Doom 32X and the Genesis classic Zombies Ate My Neighbors.
