Home > News > Kadokawa, Conglomerate Behind 'Elden Ring' and 'Dragon Quest,' Faces Sony Buyout Speculation
Kadokawa, Conglomerate Behind 'Elden Ring' and 'Dragon Quest,' Faces Sony Buyout Speculation
Sony's Potential Acquisition of Kadokawa: Expanding its Entertainment Empire
Reports suggest Sony is negotiating to acquire Kadokawa Corporation, a major Japanese conglomerate, to bolster its entertainment portfolio. This move would significantly expand Sony's reach beyond gaming.
Diversification Beyond Gaming
Sony currently holds a small stake in Kadokawa and a larger stake in FromSoftware, the developer of the acclaimed Elden Ring. Acquiring Kadokawa would grant Sony ownership of numerous subsidiaries, including:
- FromSoftware (Elden Ring, Armored Core)
- Spike Chunsoft (Dragon Quest, Pokémon Mystery Dungeon)
- Acquire (Octopath Traveler, Mario & Luigi: Brothership)
Beyond gaming, Kadokawa's extensive media holdings encompass anime production, book publishing, and manga. This acquisition aligns with Sony's strategy to diversify its revenue streams and reduce reliance on individual hit titles, as reported by Reuters. A potential deal could be finalized by the end of 2024, though both companies have declined to comment.
Market Reaction and Fan Concerns
News of the potential acquisition has sent Kadokawa's share price soaring, reaching a daily limit of 23%, while Sony's shares also saw a significant increase. However, the online response has been mixed. Some express concern, citing Sony's recent acquisitions, such as the closure of Firewalk Studios, as cause for apprehension. Fans worry about the potential impact on FromSoftware's creative freedom and future projects.
Others focus on the implications for the anime industry, fearing a potential monopoly if Sony, already owner of Crunchyroll, gains control over Kadokawa's vast library of popular IPs like Oshi no Ko, Re:Zero, and Delicious in Dungeon. The acquisition's long-term effects on the creative landscape remain to be seen.
-
Guess the Flag and CountryAre you ready to embark on a thrilling journey through world geography? Dive into the engaging world of the "Guess the Flag and Country" app, where you can test and expand your knowledge in a fun and interactive way! Designed for everyone from beginners to seasoned geographers, this app offers vario -
Golden Cards - PokerReady to elevate your poker skills to the next level? Dive into the world of Golden Cards - Poker! This dynamic app lets you engage in real-time online poker games with your friends, no matter where they are located around the globe. Whether you're a seasoned poker shark or a newcomer eager to learn -
Deluxe gameStep into a world where entertainment meets productivity with our groundbreaking app, Deluxe Game. Designed to seamlessly integrate gaming with practical features, Deluxe Game is here to revolutionize your daily routine. Whether you're a casual player or a productivity aficionado, our app caters to -
The Open LeagueThe Open League is an immersive football (soccer) manager simulation game that boasts a seamless integration with the Discord platform, enhancing the social aspect of the gaming experience. This innovative game brings the thrill of managing a football team to life, with full 90-minute matches simula -
Spy X Family Game Piano TilesStep into the thrilling universe of Spy X Family Game Piano Tiles, where your focus and tapping skills are put to the test with the rhythms of beloved characters like Loid, Anyar, Yor, Bond, Forger, and Briar. This captivating game is designed to keep you engaged for hours with its diverse modes, in -
FC Card CreatorUnleash your creativity and showcase your unique style with the "Create Your Own FC Card" feature! It's the perfect way to impress your friends by designing a personalized FC card that truly represents you. With an array of card types at your fingertips, you can select any name, customize stats, and
