Super Smash Bros Creator Sakurai Invests $630K in YouTube Content for a “Brighter Future” in Gaming

Masahiro Sakurai, the visionary behind Super Smash Bros, has unveiled his final video for his YouTube channel, disclosing that he has not profited from the endeavor, which cost him over $600,000.

In 2022, the renowned game designer ventured into the world of YouTube, launching a detailed educational series on video game creation. Four years later, he has concluded his last installment.

His channel, Masahiro Sakurai on Creating Games, was developed in both English and Japanese while Sakurai sought new projects. Throughout it, he offered valuable insights into game design, gameplay dynamics, and shared his personal industry experiences.

In his closing video, released on October 22, Sakurai examined the process of creating the channel and mentioned that he is already busy with a new, undisclosed project.

He elaborated on the substantial financial investment behind his YouTube venture, stating that beyond the extensive hours spent writing scripts, gathering footage, and filming, he incurred a staggering expense of $630,000.

(the video spans from 35:30)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_qPqBilhEtI

Masahiro Sakurai on Creating Games: Finale Special (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_qPqBilhEtI)

The majority of this expenditure was allocated to the video editing firm HIKE, with additional funds used for translations and other related costs.

“Currently, the channel isn’t generating revenue, which means it’s making zero income,” Sakurai noted. “I find that rather absurd. Alongside investing my finances, I managed the channel uploads while juggling my already significant workload, sharing insider knowledge that contributes to my livelihood.”

Although there hasn’t been any monetary gain, Sakurai views his channel as a passionate endeavor and a commitment to nurturing future game developers.

“I genuinely believe this is an investment in a better future for gaming,” he stated. “Of course, investments typically aim for future returns, so this might be better described as a donation or volunteer work.”

Sakurai is a global treasure that we take for granted.

— Sal Flores (@salvador_flores) October 22, 2024

Fans have been incredibly touched by Sakurai’s generosity. “Sakurai is a global treasure that we take for granted,” one admirer expressed.

I love him with my whole soul, Sakurai deserves the world. Easily among the hardest working individuals I’ve encountered, he is such an icon. One of my greatest and most influential idols growing up, and remains so to this day

— T!MMY (@redroyalty) October 22, 2024

“My admiration for him knows no bounds; Sakurai deserves the utmost recognition. He is undeniably one of the most dedicated individuals I’ve ever observed,” another fan proclaimed.

While Sakurai is currently immersed in the development of his new game, which is rumored to be Smash 6, he hasn’t dismissed the idea of re-engaging with his YouTube channel in the future, hinting at the possibility of discussing other topics later on.

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