PaRappa the Rapper Creator Masaya Matsuura Shares Creative Hopes for Nintendo Switch 2

PaRappa the Rapper, the iconic rhythm game released by Sony Computer Entertainment for the PlayStation in 1996, is widely regarded as a pioneer in the rhythm game genre.

Developed by Japanese musician and game designer Masaya Matsuura, the game introduced players to a story-driven adventure starring a rapping canine protagonist whose goal is to win the affection of his beloved, Sunny Funny.

Praised for its unique visual style and innovative gameplay, PaRappa the Rapper set the stage for an entire generation of rhythm-based video games that followed. Recently, Matsuura was interviewed by the gaming publication Time Extension, where he shared his thoughts on both the legacy of PaRappa and the future of game development.

Although Matsuura has not signaled an imminent return to active game creation, the conversation shifted to the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo’s upcoming hardware successor to the popular Nintendo Switch.

The original Nintendo Switch—launched in March 2017—has sold over 125 million units worldwide, solidifying its position as one of Nintendo’s most successful platforms and fostering a robust eShop ecosystem and a diverse catalog of first- and third-party titles. When asked whether the Nintendo Switch 2 might entice him to return to game development, Matsuura responded in characteristically philosophical fashion.

He remarked, through Time Extension, that his interest does not lie in the console itself but rather in “the darkness that is illuminated by the light that [Switch 2] turns on.” This metaphorical reply emphasizes Matsuura’s ongoing fascination with creativity and inspiration, suggesting he values the possibilities new hardware can unlock, rather than the device alone. Time Extension further explored whether Matsuura prioritizes the creative process over its tools.

He acknowledged that while inspiration is key, "creation without tools is almost impossible, so tools are also important." Matsuura added that he hopes for a "mental switch" that could ignite a new form of inspiration within himself.

He expressed a desire that Nintendo Switch 2 might provide that catalyst, saying, "I hope that Nintendo Switch 2 is that." These reflections underscore Matsuura’s enduring commitment to innovation—a hallmark evident not only in PaRappa the Rapper, but also in his later titles like Vib-Ribbon and Patapon.

While the possibility of a new PaRappa title debuting on the eShop or during a future Nintendo Direct remains uncertain, Matsuura’s remarks reveal the influence that major hardware releases such as the Switch 2 can have on established creators across the gaming industry. For those intrigued by Matsuura’s artistic philosophy and the broader conversation about next-generation platforms, the full interview with Time Extension is a compelling read.

As anticipation for the Nintendo Switch 2 continues to build, it’s clear that the new console aspires not only to advance hardware capabilities but also to spark creativity among veteran and emerging developers alike.

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