Reviving the Golden Age of JRPGs: A Conversation with Studio Camelia's CEO Emma Delage

Studio Camelia, a French game development studio founded by CEO Emma Delage, is set to launch a Kickstarter campaign for its inaugural title, Alzara Radiant Echoes. This Mediterranean-inspired JRPG boasts an impressive lineup of contributors, including renowned composer Motoi Sakuraba, known for his work on Dark Souls and Golden Sun, and artist Yoshiro Ambe, who has worked on notable titles such as Genshin Impact and Fire Emblem Heroes. Delage, a seasoned industry professional with over 12 years of experience, has always dreamed of starting her own studio. With a background in marketing, business strategy, and production, she has worked on several high-profile projects, including the Ghost Recon franchise, Watch Dogs Legion, and Beyond Good & Evil 2. However, her true passion lies in JRPGs, a genre she believes has been underserved in recent years. The idea for Studio Camelia was born out of Delage's desire to create games that cater to the JRPG community's hunger for more content. She believes that by specializing in this genre, the studio can build a loyal fan base and establish itself as a leader in the market. Delage's vision for Studio Camelia is not only to create engaging games but also to foster a positive and inclusive work environment, prioritizing empathy, kindness, and diversity. The studio's debut project, Alzara Radiant Echoes, is a testament to Delage's dedication to the JRPG genre. The game's development has been a labor of love, with a team of 14 people working tirelessly to bring the project to life. Despite the challenges of securing funding, Delage remains optimistic about the studio's prospects, citing the support of business angels, government grants, and incubators like BIC. The decision to launch a Kickstarter campaign for Alzara Radiant Echoes was driven by the studio's need to validate its concept and attract further investors. Delage believes that the JRPG community is eager for new content, and the Kickstarter campaign will serve as a litmus test for the project's viability. With a initial target of €100,000, the studio hopes to raise more and demonstrate its potential to investors. Throughout our conversation, Delage's passion for the JRPG genre and her commitment to creating a positive work environment are evident. As a woman in a male-dominated industry, she is acutely aware of the challenges faced by underrepresented groups and is determined to make a positive impact. Delage's story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of following one's dreams, even in the face of adversity. As Studio Camelia embarks on its journey, Delage remains focused on creating games that pay tribute to the golden age of JRPGs. With Alzara Radiant Echoes, the studio aims to revive the magic of this beloved genre and establish itself as a major player in the gaming industry. As Delage looks to the future, she is filled with a sense of excitement and purpose, knowing that she has the opportunity to create games that will leave a lasting impact on the world.