The use of yellow paint in game design—particularly on ledges and surfaces for player navigation—remains contentious, according to Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth director Naoki Hamaguchi. The practice, while criticized as a sign of 'lazy design', serves a necessary role in assisting players.
Director's Perspective
Naoki Hamaguchi addressed the debate during discussions of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth in early 2024. He acknowledged both support and criticism: "There is definitely a need for that kind of thing," he noted, citing the varying approaches developers take to integrate useful player guidance into game worlds.
Developers often experiment to find the right balance between guiding players and preserving immersion. Hamaguchi emphasized the ongoing need to provide direction without making players feel overly guided.
Broader Industry Context
Critics have highlighted examples like Stellar Blade, where the use of yellow paint was perceived as excessive. However, some projects, facing challenges in player navigation, have introduced options like an Explorer Mode to toggle off these aids.
The Witcher 4's design lead further articulated this sentiment, focusing on implementing player guidance without making it feel overtly hand-held. Hamaguchi concurs, stating that guidance should inform gameplay without overwhelming the player's experience.
Overall, while opinions vary, the use of yellow paint remains essential in certain contexts, aiming to enhance player experience in complex game environments.
