FromSoftware Boss Hidetaka Miyazaki References 'Yet to Be Announced' Games Amid Kadokawa Controversy
FromSoftware’s creative director, Hidetaka Miyazaki, recently hinted at unannounced projects in a response to Japanese gaming site Denfaminico Gamer, while avoiding direct comment on the ongoing controversy at the studio’s parent company, Kadokawa. The email response, translated from Japanese, indicated that FromSoftware is actively working on new games that have not yet been revealed to the public. However, Miyazaki was careful not to engage with the recent investor-driven drama involving Kadokawa.
Miyazaki emphasized that he is “generally satisfied with the development environment” under Kadokawa, stating that the studio has been able to create games without excessive interference from the parent company. He also expressed the importance of maintaining this environment in the future, allowing FromSoftware to focus solely on game development. This sentiment highlights the delicate balance the studio must maintain between creative freedom and the shifting dynamics of its corporate relationship.
Investor Drama at Kadokawa
The controversy at Kadokawa centers around activist investors, including Hong Kong-based hedge fund Oasis Management, which recently acquired a majority stake in the company. According to reports, Oasis has been pushing for the removal of Kadokawa’s current CEO and has criticized the company for allowing FromSoftware to partner with third-party publishers like Bandai Namco. Instead, Oasis prefers that FromSoftware publish its games directly under Kadokawa’s umbrella.
While Miyazaki did not address these specific concerns, he did offer a brief but encouraging message to fans. “We want to assure you that we will continue to work harder than ever to create truly valuable games,” he said. “We hope you will look forward to our upcoming titles, both those already announced and those yet to be announced.” This subtle nod to future projects has sparked excitement among fans, many of whom are eager to see what FromSoftware has in store next.
Currently, the only upcoming project FromSoftware has officially announced is the Switch 2-exclusive multiplayer game, Duskbloods. However, given Miyazaki’s hints and the studio’s track record, it’s reasonable to assume that more surprises are on the horizon. With the year drawing to a close, many are hoping that FromSoftware will reveal its next big project before the end of 2023.
