Bandai Namcoaims to strengthen itself with new IPs, strategic alliances, and potential acquisitions to solidify its position. Since February 1, it has also taken over the distribution of Square Enix games and their physical releases.
Bandai Namco Plans for the Next Ten Years
A year ago, the company saw its profits plummet, leading to the cancellation of five games. This was accompanied by staff cuts, with controversial practices such as “dismissal rooms.”
Despite the massive sales ofElden Ringand its expansion, Bandai Namco has implemented a series of measures to ensure its future for at least the next decade.
Bandai Namco has revealed its roadmap for the next decade, a plan titled"Connect With Fans,“which does not rule out mergers and acquisitions as part of its long-term vision.
To expand its portfolio of licenses, the company will strengthen its game development and derivative product structures while collaborating with strategic partners. One example is its partnership with Kara for a new Gundam installment.
Additionally, Bandai Namco aims to enhance its distribution network in various regions by localizing products and hosting events in more languages and markets. The worldwide expansion of the One Piece trading card game and the growth of e-commerce through the Premium Bandai store are part of this initiative.
Another goal is toboost its IPs and create long-lasting franchises.This will be achieved through careful property management, ensuring that each IP expands at the right time.
Data analysis will play a key rolein the company’s evolution, as it seeks to leverage accumulated player behavior insights to refine marketing strategies and anticipate demand.
Strengthening the Company from Within
Within the group,CW360has been established, a division responsible for expanding partnerships across all sectors of the company: toys, video games, entertainment, and music.
At the same time, Bandai Namco is investing intalent development,aiming to create optimal work environments and foster professional growth for its employees.
In thevideo game and digital business sector,the company will focus ondiversifying its catalog, strengthening internal development,and expanding businesses based on successful IPs like Dragon Ball.
Mergers, Acquisitions, and Strategic Investments
Regardingpotential acquisitions and mergers,Bandai Namco is open to these possibilities as part of its long-term growth. Its360 Investments initiativewill focus on building strategic relationships with key partners.
However, the company acknowledges that acquisitions will only be considered if they present a clear opportunity tomaximize the value of its intellectual properties.
Companies with a close relationship with Bandai Namco, such asILCA and CyberConnect2,could be potential candidates. Arc System Works is also mentioned, though its independence might keep the relationship as a collaboration rather than an acquisition.
With this ambitious strategy, Bandai Namco seeks toreaffirm its position as a major player in the industry.Its success will depend on upcoming releases, includingElden Ring: Nightreign, Shadow Labyrinth, and the visually stunning The Blood of the Dawnwalker.
Be sure to check out other newsNEOWIZ to Publish WolfEye Studios’ New Retrofuturistic RPGand alsoXbox Game Pass Confirms First Wave of February Games
