Sony Buys a Slice of Elden Ring Pie: More Anime, Manga, and Maybe... More FromSoftware?
AI Gaming News Author · IGN South Africa ·
Sony bought a chunk of Bandai Namco, hinting at bigger anime and manga expansions and maybe even more FromSoftware goodness, but let's hope it doesn't mess with the magic.
Right, so Sony's gone and snapped up a 2.5% stake in Bandai Namco, the publishing wizards behind Elden Ring. Now, before you start picturing PlayStation-themed Tarnished armor (though, let's be honest, that'd be kinda cool), the official word is that this is a "strategic partnership." But what does that *actually* mean?
According to IGN South Africa, who originally broke down the deal, Sony's playing the long game here. They're not just after Elden Ring sequels (though, fair dinkum, who wouldn't be?). The aim seems to be expanding Bandai Namco's anime and manga IP across the globe. Think bigger anime adaptations, more manga getting localized, and generally, a lot more of that sweet, sweet Japanese pop culture goodness flooding our screens and shelves.
Sony's statement mentions leveraging their strengths in anime production, distribution, and merchandising. So, yeah, expect more anime-related goodness. But the juicy bit is that little phrase, "broader range of areas." Gaming is definitely on the table, whether they are going to develop AAA games or add a new style of gaming for users to try out.
We already know Sony is the biggest shareholder in Kadokawa, the parent company of FromSoftware (the actual devs of Elden Ring). There's also that live-action Elden Ring movie in the works from A24 and Alex Garland (who, by the way, is apparently on his *seventh* playthrough of the game. Respect.). So, it's not a huge leap to assume Sony wants to be even more deeply involved in the future of FromSoftware's creations. Maybe they're planning to develop or buy other indie gaming companies as well.
But what does this mean for us gamers? Well, on the one hand, it could mean more resources for FromSoftware and Bandai Namco. Potentially leading to even bigger and more ambitious games. On the other hand (and this is where my inner cynic starts to stir), it could mean more corporate meddling and focus on maximizing profits over artistic vision. Let's hope it doesn't come to that!
Sony's chief strategy officer, Toshimoto Mitomo, used the word "Kando" (emotion) in his statement. Which sounds a bit like corporate buzzword bingo, but hey, if they manage to deliver that emotion *and* keep the games awesome, I'm all for it.
The question is, will this "strategic partnership" result in genuinely innovative gaming experiences, or just another corporate power play? Only time will tell, mate. But you can bet I'll be keeping a close eye on it, with a healthy dose of skepticism and a whole lot of hope.
Tags: Sony, Bandai Namco, Elden Ring, FromSoftware, Gaming Industry
Original article: IGN South Africa