Why Do American Games Fail in Japan?

[amdg]

An interesting question. I don’t know the answer but it’s possible that the problem may lie in a failure to invest in Japanese-targeted marketing. American producers have, in the past, assumed that word of mouth will carry their games overseas in the same way that Japanese games penetrated the US market. While there have been a few successes in that vein – like Tomb Raider - experience has shown that it doesn’t work reciprocally.

[Neo-Rio]

Seems like the memory tests and puzzle games Nintendo produces are more likely to appeal to older adults and/or women. Most Xbox games are firmly aimed at teenagers.

While Japan's population ages, the teenage market sort of dries up.
Not only that, but the first Xbox lost lots of retail store-shelf real estate. It's having a hard time winning it all back.

[Kuang_Grade]

It could be that they are not tailoring their efforts towards certain J audiences with sufficient 'fan service'.

From the esteemed and very funny geekonstun.com
Rumble Roses XX user controlled character modifications include variable breast sizes and thigh thickness
http://www.geekonstun.com/mt/archives/will_the_next_generation_be_wankable_part_ii_020506.html


Upskirt views in Dead or Alive 4
http://www.geekonstun.com/mt/archives/will_the_next_generation_be_wankable_011906.html

[IkemenTommy]

A Salute to Japanese Game Designers

[Taro Toporific]

It could be that they are not tailoring their efforts towards certain J audiences with sufficient 'fan service'.
Rumble Roses XX user controlled character modifications include variable breast sizes and thigh thickness
next_generation_be_wankable

Yep, US games just are not perverted enough for the Japanese market.

[INDENT]Player 1: Bishoujo Games
CiN Weekly - Wednesday, February 8, 2006
For my Valentine's column, I thought I'd try something new and maybe even a little naughty - bishoujo games.
Perhaps you've heard of them but, like me, you've been too embarrassed to really give them a try. I figured it was about time for me to see exactly how saucy these Japanese dating simulation games can be.
Aren't you glad you have me to play stuff like this for you?
LOVELY LADY LUMPS
If the thought of bare breasts offends your delicate constitution, stop now.
... nearly 25 percent of all PC software sold in Japan are bishou...more...
[/INDENT]