Once Upon a Katamari Producer Interview
A new generation developer takes on the challenge of leading the beloved Katamari series
In the second half of this year, Bandai Namco Entertainment has been on a roll, unveiling exciting new projects across action, platformers, and RPGs. But what has fans buzzing most is the long-awaited return of the cult classic series with Once Upon a Katamari. Known for its quirky charm, laugh-out-loud moments, and deceptively challenging objectives, this comeback arrives more than a decade since the last mainline release.
To mark the occasion, Bandai Namco Entertainment Asia gave us the opportunity to sit down with Ryo Ishida, producer of Once Upon a Katamari. For Ishida, this is his first time taking full leadership of a Katamari project, making it a significant milestone in his career.
Q&A Highlights with Ryo Ishida
Q: Once Upon a Katamari is coming to next-gen platforms. Were there changes to the controls?
A: The controls have followed the standard updates since Katamari Damacy Reroll in 2018 and We Love Katamari Reroll+ in 2023. So there aren’t major changes — everything is easy to pick up for both new and veteran players.
Q: If the core gameplay remains the same, how does this game feel fresh?
A: The core of rolling items into a giant ball is still here, but we’ve added new mission objectives with different win conditions, unique stage settings, and fresh twists. This is not a remaster but a brand-new title where fans can expect something original.
Q: What new features stand out most?
A: The highlight is the new Customization System, allowing players to personalize characters like The Prince and his cousins with different facial features and colors. We want players to enjoy them in their own unique way.
Q: How were the stage settings chosen?
A: We brainstormed unusual surfaces to roll on, which inspired the Ice Age stage. We realized that by stepping outside present-day settings, we could push creativity further with different biomes and unique items to roll up.
Q: Music is key to Katamari. What’s new this time?
A: The original Katamari Damacy soundtrack is legendary. This time, because of the diverse eras featured in the game, we had more creative freedom. For example, the ancient Japan stage uses traditional instruments to fit its atmosphere.
Q: The artist lineup is exciting, with DAOKO, chelmico, and Kocchi no Kento. How did that come about?
A: We reached out first, and they showed strong interest in joining the project.
Q: How are offline and online modes structured?
A: The main story mode focuses on classic single-player fun. For online, we designed a four-player mode where friends or matchmade players can roll together. Everyone starts in the same spot before branching out to roll up objects — or even bump into each other for chaotic fun.
Ishida’s Perspective and Message to Fans
Q: As a new-generation developer taking the lead for the first time, what challenges did you face?
A: It was challenging but made easier by close teamwork. Many on the team had worked on Reroll before, where I also contributed in a support role.
Q: The customization system feels detailed. What was the vision behind it?
A: Modern games emphasize personalization. In Katamari’s past, players could equip items, but customization was limited. Now, we want fans to feel connected to the characters and truly make them their own.
Q: For new players, what support systems are in place?
A: We improved the evaluation system, so players can easily see what objects they’ve rolled into the Katamari. Ranking feedback like S, A, B, or C also appears during play, motivating players to aim higher.
Q: With the world being tough right now, how does a quirky game like Katamari fit in?
A: (laughs) The game world itself is chaotic rather than relaxing, but it brings excitement and humor. The unique Katamari universe lets players explore freely and enjoy stages without heavy pressure.
Q: Final message to fans?
A: This game is made for both newcomers and longtime fans. We’ve added plenty of new features, reworked sound effects, and modernized the feel. The team can’t wait for everyone to enjoy it. Thank you for your support!
About Once Upon a Katamari
Once Upon a Katamari is an action-puzzle game where players control The Prince, tasked with rebuilding the universe after the King of All Cosmos accidentally destroys it. Using the magical Katamari ball, players roll up objects of all sizes to complete creative missions. The game features Katamari’s signature low-poly graphics and humor.
The game launches on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC on October 24, 2025. Pre-orders and wishlists are already live on Steam, with a playable demo booth set for Tokyo Game Show.
