He described how, in earlier decades, many anime creators entered the field with a strong desire to tell original stories, even if success was uncertain. Works like Neon Genesis Evangelion, Cowboy Bebop, and Revolutionary Girl Utena stood out because they were unique and daring, shaping anime culture in lasting ways.
Today, however, the environment has changed. Studios hesitate to fund projects that do not guarantee returns, especially given the high costs of production. This leaves less room for ambitious creators to push boundaries, resulting in more formula-driven shows that can blend together over time.
The founder also pointed out the emotional side of the issue. For animators, writers, and directors, passion is an essential part of the creative process. When projects are chosen mainly for their commercial value, that passion can be replaced by fatigue or disinterest.
Working endlessly on projects designed only to fill schedules or ride on existing popularity can leave creators feeling disconnected from their own art. In his words, too much focus on quantity risks draining the energy that originally drew people into the industry.