#Japan #Tokyo #Waseda University #Hideo Kojima #Rigorous Research

Waseda University Podcast Releases New Episode on Hideo Kojima

Waseda University, located in Shinjuku, Tokyo, has officially released the second episode of the second season of its English podcast, "Rigorous Research, Real Impact" on October 7, 2025. This new episode, titled "Hideo Kojima and the Art of Game Design," can be accessed for free on various platforms including smartphone apps, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, YouTube, and the university's website.

In this episode, the guest is Brian Hartsheim-Hikari, an associate professor specializing in media and game studies from the International Graduate School. He joins host Fabian, a doctoral student, to explore the cultural significance of video games and their innovative aspects. Through deep discussions on Hideo Kojima's contributions, the episode delves into how video games impact society, storytelling, and cultural dialogues worldwide. Additionally, the episode introduces the English degree programs offered by the International Program in the School of International Liberal Studies and the Graduate School of International Communication Studies, where Professor Hartsheim teaches.

The Podcast Series

Waseda University's podcast, "Rigorous Research, Real Impact," features a total of eight episodes in its second season, each lasting around 15 minutes. These episodes invite outstanding researchers to discuss their current research projects, their activities as faculty members at Waseda University, and highlight the appeal of the English degree programs offered at the university. The podcast covers a wide range of topics, including the concept of 'translanguaging' in Japan's sociolinguistic context, territorial disputes in Northeast Asia, and multifaceted peacebuilding methods. This makes it an excellent resource for listeners considering studying abroad at a Japanese university, current students thinking of further studies at the graduate level, or researchers interested in interdisciplinary approaches to academia.

Upcoming Episodes

The episodes are scheduled to be released every two weeks, though changes may occur. Episode 3 is set for release on October 21, 2025, featuring Professor Alexander Buff of the International Graduate School discussing "Social Construction of Territorial Disputes in Northeast Asia." Episode 4, airing on November 4, 2025, will feature Associate Professor Jack Seddon from the Faculty of Political Science and Economics discussing "Market Makers: The Politics of Market Design." Following this, Episode 5 will be released on November 18, 2025, where Associate Professor Megumi Kagawa from the Graduate School of Social Sciences will elaborate on "Hybrid Peacebuilding: Local Voices in Conflict Resolution."

About Waseda University

Waseda University currently offers English degree programs across six faculties and fifteen graduate schools. According to a report from the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) in 2024, Waseda University consistently ranks as the leading university in Japan for accepting international students annually. Furthermore, in the QS World University Rankings by Subject in 2024, Waseda University ranked in the top 100 worldwide in both Humanities & Arts (overall rank 65) and Social Sciences & Management (overall rank 99).

For anyone interested in academia, cultural studies, or the future of gaming, this podcast episode provides valuable insights into the intersection of technology, culture, and education here at Waseda University.