Sony Becomes Largest Shareholder of Kadokawa: What It Means for FromSoftware and Future Projects
December 19, 2024
Sony has solidified its position as the largest shareholder of Kadokawa, the parent company of FromSoftware, establishing a strategic capital and business alliance.
This partnership is expected to enhance collaboration between the two companies, focusing on maximizing the global value of their intellectual properties.
Future initiatives may involve adapting Kadokawa's IP into live-action films and TV dramas, co-producing anime, and expanding its game publishing and anime distribution.
While the collaboration raises questions about the potential for FromSoftware games to become PlayStation exclusives, the focus appears to be on media adaptation rather than exclusivity.
Concerns among non-PlayStation gamers have been addressed, emphasizing that the collaboration is not primarily about exclusivity.
FromSoftware is currently developing a multiplatform spin-off of Elden Ring titled 'Elden Ring Nightreign', which is set to release in 2025.
Historically, FromSoftware games have seen delayed PC releases, typically launching six months to a year after their PlayStation counterparts, which has raised concerns among PC gamers.
FromSoftware employees have reacted positively to the potential alliance, especially in light of dissatisfaction with the management's response to a recent cyberattack.
Although there are no current plans for Sony to acquire more shares, this deal complicates the landscape for competitors like Microsoft looking to acquire FromSoftware.
Sony's recent financial performance has been strong, with a significant increase in net profit attributed to robust sales in gaming, music, and imaging sensors.
The acquisition comes amid a broader trend of consolidation in the anime industry, with significant buyouts occurring, reflecting a changing landscape.
Overall, while the partnership between Sony and Kadokawa signals exciting possibilities for future projects, it also raises questions about the implications for game availability across platforms.
Summary based on 38 sources
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Sources

The Verge • Dec 19, 2024
Sony now owns a much bigger piece of FromSoftware’s parent company
CNET • Dec 19, 2024
Sony Buys Bigger Stake in Elden Ring Developer's Parent Company
Newsweek • Dec 19, 2024
Sony Becomes Largest Shareholder of Anime Powerhouse and FromSoftware Owner Kadokawa
TechRadar • Dec 19, 2024
Sony is officially the largest shareholder of FromSoftware owner Kadokawa