Sony has confirmed its interest in acquiring FromSoftware’s parent company, Kadokawa.
PlayStation maker has cleared the air on reports that it was looking to acquire the gaming and anime mega company in a recent interview Yahoo Japan. It’s confirmation of what could be a bombshell moment for entertainment fans everywhere, but until a deal closes, it’s probably best to keep expectations around a potential buyout to a minimum.
“It is true that we have made an initial declaration of intent,” Sony said regarding its interest in Kadokawa (translated via DeepL). “We would appreciate if you would allow us to refrain from making any further comments.”
Rumors say that Sony may soon acquire Kadokawa first emerged from A Reuters last month’s report. She said that talks between the two companies were ongoing, and one of the sources added that if the negotiations go in a positive direction, the contract may be signed soon. Today’s confirmation from Sony suggests that talks are still vigorous, although it is unclear what their current status is.
Kadokawa oversees a number of entities that could undoubtedly benefit Sony in the long run. Many gaming fans have their eye on FromSoftware, which helped launch gaming in 2010 with the critically acclaimed Dark Souls series. The developer has also seen huge success with George RR Martin’s 2022 collaboration project, Elden Ring, with its next DLC, Shadow of the Erdtree, set to launch early this year. Kadokawa also owns other game studios such as Spike Chunsoft (Danganronpa), Acquire (Octopath Traveler), Gotcha Gotcha Games (RPG Maker), and more.
Although some experts believe it Bringing the media company under Sony’s wing may prove arduousAmpere Analysis’s director of research, Piers Harding-Rolls, previously explained to IGN that news of the company’s interest shouldn’t come as much of a surprise. Thanks to the deal concluded in 2022, it already owns approximately 14% of FromSoftware.
“Sony then mentioned a broader interest in multi-media development of anime and gaming intellectual property to support its other media businesses,” Harding-Rolls said. “In this sense, any agreement entered into with parent company Kadokawa, which also operates extensively in manga and anime, is a natural extension of this previous agreement. These other areas fit well into Sony’s anime business.”
For now, it is not known when or if the transaction will be completed. While we wait for any updates, you can read about why FromSoftware is not currently interested in making Elden Ring 2. You can also learn about ransomware attack that hit the game’s creator earlier this year.
Michael Cripe is a freelance contributor to IGN. He began writing in the industry in 2017 and is best known for his work on outlets such as The Pitch, The Escapist, OnlySP and Gameranx.
Be sure to follow him on Twitter @MikeCripe.
