From Software: Sony confirms interest in purchasing Elden Ring developer 62 comments
Image: from the software
Rumors have been circulating for several weeks about a possible takeover of Kadokawa, the parent company of Elden developer Ring From Software, by Sony. The PlayStation Group has officially confirmed its purchase intention, but it remains as tight as possible. Sony does not wish to comment further on the development.
Sony wants to buy Kadokawa and therefore From Software
A takeover of Kadokawa by Sony has been under discussion since the end of November; It was first reported by Reuters. Three weeks of speculation followed, but both sides remained tight-lipped. However, Sony has now officially confirmed to Yahoo Japan that it is interested in a takeover, as reported by IGN and VGC in unison among others. The takeover has therefore not yet been decided, but Sony intends to do so. But the company does not want to say more on the subject.
It is true that we have made a first declaration of intent. We would be grateful if you would allow us to refrain from making any further comments.
Sony told Yahoo Japan
Sony already owns shares in Kadokawa and notably 14 percent in From Software. Given the popularity of these players and the close connection to PlayStation, the intention to take over is not surprising. The possibility of offering future Dark Souls games or From Software developments in general exclusively on PlayStation or at least refusing them to Xbox would be of obvious strategic importance for Sony. After Microsoft‘s mega-acquisitions of Activision Blizzard and ZeniMax in recent years, Sony’s response would mark the next chapter in the video game market’s ongoing consolidation.
According to reports from Japan, Kadokawa employees are optimistic about the development of the situation. Recently, dissatisfaction with its own management has increased, as Automaton reports.
It’s Kadokawa
Kadokawa is a Japanese media group that includes many companies in various industries, including books, manga, anime, films and games. Kadokawa is particularly well-known in this regard as the parent company of From Software, the developer of the Bloodborne and Dark Souls series. With the highly successful Elden Ring, From Software established the Soulslike genre in the mainstream and set numerous records. The RPG Soulslike has sold over 25 million times and, with 324 awards, is the most awarded video game of all time.
Besides From Software, other game studios such as Spike Chunsoft (Danganronpa), Acquire (Octopath Traveler) and Gotcha Gotcha Games (RPG Maker) are owned by Kadokawa. Kadokawa is also a heavyweight in anime and manga, including brands like Delicious in Dungeon, which received a successful Netflix adaptation from Studio Trigger earlier this year.
Topics: From PlayStation Sony Economy gaming software Source: Sony, Yahoo Japan, Reuters
A lifelong video game enthusiast, Julien reviews the latest releases and explores the technologies transforming the gaming world.
