Here's a quick update for the Nintendo fans in Japan, at least if you're interested in getting a close-up of Masahiro Sakurai. The International Game Developers Association (IGDA) has sent word that Sakurai-san has been scheduled to hold a talk for Japan's Digital Games Research Association (DiGRA) this May 23.

The talk, dubbed "Game-ness", will discuss what makes games fun. Sakurai will be using existing games to indicate which principles make the games enjoyable.

It's a pretty good choice for a speaker, actually, given that Sakurai is the creator of the Super Smash Bros. (you've probably seen the Dojo site) and Kirby series of games. As for the rest of the details regarding this talk:

• Date: May 23, 2008 (Fri) 18:00 p.m. to 20:00 p.m
  
• Location: Fukutake Hall Running Theatre at Tokyo University's Hongo campus
• Sponsor:  Digital Games Research Association  (DiGRA Japan)
• Seating Capacity: 150
• Fees:
• DiGRA members: 500 yen
• Non-DiGRA members: 1000 yen
  

As you've read, the talk can only accommodate up to 150 visitors. Those interested in registering will want to visit Japan's IGDA site (via the source link below) for further details.