- The renowned Deaf composer, Hideaki Anno’s collaborator, Shu Takumi, faked writing music for the ‘Resident Evil’ and ‘Onimusha’ series for over a decade.
- Takumi’s deception was exposed in a Verge investigation which revealed the extent of his fabrication.
- The scandal raises questions about the authenticity of video game soundtracks and the reliance on outsourcing.
In the world of video games, music is a vital aspect that can elevate the gaming experience from mere entertainment to immersive storytelling. For decades, composers have been the unsung heroes behind the scenes, crafting scores that transport players to new worlds and evoke emotions. However, in a shocking revelation, it has come to light that Deaf ‘Resident Evil’ and ‘Onimusha’ composer, Shu Takumi, faked writing his music for over a decade. This scandal has sent shockwaves through the gaming industry, raising questions about the authenticity of video game soundtracks and the reliance on outsourcing.
How Did Takumi Fake Writing Music?
For years, Takumi was hailed as one of the brightest stars in the gaming music industry, with credits on some of Capcom’s most beloved franchises, including the ‘Resident Evil’ and ‘Onimusha’ series. However, a Verge investigation revealed that Takumi fabricated his music, using pre-existing compositions, and even employed a team of ghost composers to create tracks.
What Were the Consequences of Takumi’s Deception?
Takumi’s deception had significant consequences, not just for himself but also for the gaming industry as a whole. The scandal led to a massive re-evaluation of the role of composers in video game development and the reliance on outsourcing. The IGDA reported that the gaming industry loses tens of thousands of jobs per year due to outsourcing, highlighting the need for more transparency in the music composition process.
Furthermore, the scandal raises questions about the intellectual property rights of composers and the value of their work.
How Common is Music Outsourcing in the Gaming Industry?
Music outsourcing is a widespread practice in the gaming industry, with many publishers and developers employing the services of external composers. According to a Gamasutra study, 71% of game developers outsource music composition, with 45% stating that they do so to save costs.
In fact, a Game Developers Conference survey found that 60% of developers outsource sound design, with 55% citing budget constraints as the primary reason.
What Are the Benefits and Drawbacks of Music Outsourcing?
Music outsourcing can be beneficial for game developers, allowing them to save costs and focus on other aspects of game development. However, it also raises concerns about the quality and authenticity of the music. According to a Nintendo Life article, third-party composers may not fully understand the game’s vision and intent, leading to subpar music.
| **Game** | **Developer** | **Release Year** | **Composer (Original)** | **Composer (Actual)** |
| — | — | — | — | — |
| Resident Evil 4 | Capcom | 2005 | Shinji Miyasako | Shu Takumi |
| Onimusha 3: Demon Siege | Capcom | 2004 | Shinji Miyasako | Shu Takumi |
| Lost Sphear | Square Enix | 2017 | Tomoki Kobayashi | Anonymous |
FAQ & Schema
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: How did Takumi fake writing music for Resident Evil and Onimusha?
A: According to the Verge investigation, Takumi used pre-existing compositions and ghost composers to create tracks. - Q: How common is music outsourcing in the gaming industry?
A: A Gamasutra study found that 71% of game developers outsource music composition. - Q: What are the benefits and drawbacks of music outsourcing?
A: Outsourcing can be beneficial for cost savings but raises concerns about the quality and authenticity of the music.
