Dear Future Gamer

I agree with Martin N (FG37) about games being released for specific territories only. Being a bit of an anorak with an interest in railways, I often bemoan the lack of decent train driving simulations available here in the west (apart from a few 'garden shed' efforts). However, I recently discovered the Japanese Densha de Go! games (published by Taito).

The graphics, sound and train handling dynamics of these games are nothing short of superb, but they're currently only obtainable on import from Japan. While some of the menus and game screens are in English, all the dialogue and much of the on-screen info is obviously in Japanese, resulting in vital information being missed.

I'm sure there would be a demand in this country for an English version of this software. I've demoed the game to several people I know and they've all said they would buy a copy if it were on sale here, but aren't happy at paying £60-£70 for an import version. Why are some games given a release in the west and others never see the light of day, seemingly on the whim of a company executive? Any chance of contacting Taito and suggesting they bring these games on to the market in the west? The only alteration they would need to make is to change the dialogue and on-screen information into English. The existing routes are fine, with a good variety of challenge and scenery.

Vernon Moorhouse

FG: I suppose Taito don't think it would be cost effective to translate such games for a European release. Bear in mind that these companies don't give two hoots about keeping gamers happy - they're only concerned with their bottom line.