Yuji Horii, best known as the creator of the Dragon Quest series, received a new title on January 13 when Abashiri City in Hokkaido appointed him as their tourism ambassador. The honor recognizes his 1984 murder mystery game The Hokkaido Serial Murder Case: The Okhotsk Disappearance and its 2024 remake, both of which feature the city as a key location.

Abashiri officials credit the games with bringing visitors to the area for four decades. The city has embraced this connection by creating experiences tied to the game, including a collaboration with JR Hokkaido’s tourist train “Ryuhyo Monogatari.” The Nippopo doll, an important item in the game’s story, has become a popular souvenir among tourists. Fans can also participate in special tours that explore locations from the game, with Horii and production staff members joining a 2024 tour to mark the remake’s release.

The Hokkaido Serial Murder Case is the second entry in Horii’s Mysteries trilogy. The first game, The Portopia Serial Murder Case (1983), famously inspired Hideo Kojima to pursue game development. The trilogy’s third game, Karuizawa Yūkai Annai, came out in 1985. Each game takes place in different Japanese locations, with The Hokkaido Serial Murder Case set in eastern Hokkaido cities including Kushiro, Abashiri, Shiretoko, and Monbetsu.

After receiving his official appointment letter and business card, Horii shared his thoughts on the recognition. He expressed happiness that his game helped bring attention to the region and that fans continue to visit and support local businesses.

Horii recalled his 1983 research trip to Hokkaido, where Abashiri was his final stop. During that visit, he toured the Abashiri Prison and discovered the Nippopo doll, which became a key element in his game. When he returned for the remake, he noted changes to the area, including the addition of the Abashiri Prison Museum. He praised the city’s food and atmosphere, calling Abashiri “a wonderful town.”