This book explores Keiji Inafune's unique and controversial approach to video game design by breaking down his prolific output into seven key concepts.

Keiji Inafune is a polarizing figure in the video game community. While some view his work on Capcom's Mega Man series as a pivotal contribution to the gaming industry, others question his very claim to the title of game designer. No matter one's stance, however, Inafune's work inspires passionate discussions about video game design and its history.

In this book, Andrew Schartmann explores seven core principles that permeate Inafune's output and constitute his creative “voice.” He also draws on Inafune's controversial persona to probe the very definition of “video game designer”-a term problematized by the collaborative aspect of game design and the industry's Wonka-esque obsession with secrecy. With high-profile games like Mega Man, Street Fighter and Resident Evil, Inafune's repertoire provides an ideal lens through which to explore the nuts and bolts of game design and the many forces that shape it.