Capcom shortening time between game sequels

Capcom has revealed it wants to shorten the development time between sequels to release more games.

The company recently released their annual report, which states that development cycles will be reduced to maximise earnings.

Capcom president, Haruhiro Tsujimoto, said: "We launch sales of popular series titles held by the company approximately every 2.5 years. This is because the development of a single major title usually requires 3-4 years.

"In the event that there are few hits, it will be difficult to create a series title every year and earnings will be adversely impacted. For this reason, it is important either to maintain a large number of popular titles or shorten the sales cycle to ensure stable earnings.

"Among the multitude of major titles held by Capcom - such as Monster Hunter, Street Fighter, Resident Evil, Devil May Cry, Lost Planet, Dead Rising and many others - we will promote shortening of the sales cycle in pursuit of further earnings stabilisation and growth."

Development teams for major games will now be limited to 100 people, while multiple sequel titles will be developed at the same time.

Capcom also plans on hiring an extra 1000 staff over the next decade to strengthen the development process.