Hajime Tabata launches revitalization project in Shimabara Peninsula with Ryugu Nation integration

Hajime Tabata and his company, JP Universe, have started the Shimabara Peninsula Geo-Chronicle Project. This initiative will revitalize the Shimabara Peninsula / Unzen Volcanic Area UNESCO Global Geopark by turning it into a unique, immersive experience – Japan’s first “Real Adventure RPG.” The project will also connect with Tabata’s larger RPG metaverse platform, Ryugu Nation.

So, I heard this project is also trying to help out some towns in Kyushu – Shimabara, Minami-Shimabara, and Unzen – which have been losing people. It’s cool they’re doing that! And get this – the official mascots from each town – Shimabaran, Captain Beiga, and Oyuppy – are going to be in the game as AI guides in Ryugu Nation. It’s a neat way to bring some local flavor and maybe even draw attention to these places.

This project aims to get children exploring the Geopark, encouraging them to uncover new stories and adventures that can be added to Ryugu Nation. Ultimately, this will transform the area’s natural features into creative content and experiences.

We previously reported that Hajime Tabata, as director of JP Games, announced a new RPG called Shallah in 2024. While the game project is still ongoing, Tabata is no longer listed as a member of the JP Games team for reasons unknown.

So, I’ve been following things closely, and it looks like Tabata is now the head honcho at JP Universe – they’re even in the same building as before! He recently shared his goals for 2026, and it sounds like they’re planning a beta test for Ryugu Nation sometime this year, which is super exciting. I’m really hyped to see what they come up with!

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2026-04-27 20:26