Interview with Video Chums
September 2025 – In this interview, Video Chums speaks with director Julian Rice about Shujinkou’s ambitious trilogy roadmap, its focus on family-driven storytelling, and the innovative integration of language learning into a classic JRPG framework. Learn how Rice assembled his team, drew inspiration from dungeon-crawling favorites, and shaped Shujinkou into both a massive game & foundation of a much larger saga.
Interview with Tech-Gaming
June 2025 – In this interview, Tech-Gaming speaks with director Julian Rice about the creative and technical journey behind one of 2025’s most ambitious indie RPGs. Discover how Shujinkou blends classic role-playing mechanics with a rich narrative and innovative language-learning elements to create a unique and unforgettable experience.
Interview with RPGamer
February 2025 – In this interview, RPGamer speaks with director Julian Rice about Shujinkou’s expansive world, two-arc story campaign, and innovative gameplay that blends classic dungeon-crawling with optional Japanese language learning. Gain insight into the features and development of this ambitious RPG ahead of its launch.
Interview with Game*Spark Japan (Japanese)
December 2024 – In this interview, Game*Spark speaks with director Julian Rice about how Shujinkou is both an ambitious fusion of classic JRPG gameplay with Japanese language-learning and a heartfelt tribute to his late mother. Discover the inspirations, challenges, and vision behind this unique title straight from its creator.
Podcasts
Podcast Appearance – IndieGameBusiness®
September 2025 – In this episode, IndieGameBusiness® speaks with director Julian Rice about the long journey of bringing Shujinkou to life, from its 2019 Tokyo Game Show debut and a failed Kickstarter to becoming a 3D dungeon-crawling JRPG with integrated language learning. Hear how Rice and his team overcame challenges, secured critical acclaim, and laid the foundation for one of indie gaming’s most ambitious trilogies.
Podcast Appearance – The SML Podcast
September 2025 – In this episode, the SML Podcast speaks with director Julian Rice about the origins of Shujinkou, how it balances classic JRPG gameplay with Japanese language learning, and the inspirations behind its design. Hear about the influences of the Etrian Odyssey series, the team’s development journey, and what makes Shujinkou a standout indie RPG now on PS5 and Steam, with a Switch release on the way.