What Sony's Possible Purchase of Kadokawa Could Mean for the Future of Gaming & Media

The internet has been buzzing with news that Sony might be in talks to acquire Kadokawa, the parent company of FromSoftware (creators behind Elden Ring and the Souls series). Fans are keeping a close eye on these developments, and a lot of them are raising concerns about the potential deal. So, what could happen if it goes through?

Sony and Kadokawa's Potential Acquisition

Kadokawa is a major Japanese media conglomerate that oversees numerous affiliated companies across publishing, film and visuals, and cross-media. Among its most well-known subsidiaries is FromSoftware, the studio responsible for acclaimed IPs like Elden Ring and the Souls series.

Sony is in talks to acquire Kadokawa, the Japanese media powerhouse behind the ‘Elden Ring’ game, two sources familiar with the matter said, as the technology giant looks to add to its entertainment portfolio https://t.co/xBfByPbfN4pic.twitter.com/xjH2tG2Ld9

— Reuters (@Reuters) November 19, 2024

If Sony proceeds with an offer and Kadokawa accepts, the acquisition wouldn’t just impact FromSoftware but also a wide range of media-related franchises. Naturally, this prospect has sparked widespread concern about how Sony might influence the quality and integrity of these properties.

Fan Reactions: Concern and Outrage

Responses to the news have been swift and vocal, with platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit brimming with opposition. Fans fear that Sony’s control could harm franchises under Kadokawa’s umbrella, from FromSoftware to Spike Chunsoft, as well as its anime ventures.

Sony will destroy everything that is good in the Souls series.

— DodgeToTheMoon! (@DarkCreator50) November 19, 2024

Statements like “Sony will destroy everything [that is] good in the Souls series” and “Let’s hope they don’t ruin my favorite developer. FromSoft games are gold; you can just trust and buy them” underscore the anxiety surrounding FromSoftware’s future.

Others, however, are focused on the broader implications. One fan expressed concerns about Kadokawa’s publishing ventures, saying, “FromSoft is my last worry in all this. I’m more worried about how this will impact creative freedom and copyright ownership in the Light Novel and Manga industry, given Kadokawa’s dominance in publishing.”

In case you don't know how many of your favorite anime fall under Kadokawaw, check out the list here. When seeing some of my top picks of all time on this list does concern me, and this opposition from me and many others highlights a general mistrust in Sony’s ability to preserve the distinct qualities that make Kadokawa’s subsidiaries so beloved.

FromSoftware’s Future

Sony’s history with acquired studios is mixed. On one hand, games like The Last of Us and Horizon Zero Dawn demonstrate Sony’s ability to nurture creativity. On the other hand, failures like Concord and challenges with other acquisitions leave room for doubt.

Fans worry that Sony could impose creative restrictions or shift FromSoftware’s focus to align with corporate objectives. While some believe Sony’s resources could elevate FromSoftware’s games, and even put the idea of getting a Bloodborne remake or remaster back on the table, others fear stifling oversight could hinder their innovative spirit.

Kadokawa’s Broader Portfolio

Kadokawa’s influence extends beyond gaming, with a major presence in anime, manga, and light novels. Its subsidiaries produce iconic works cherished by fans worldwide.

A Sony acquisition could centralize decision-making, potentially limiting creative freedom and introducing tighter restrictions on intellectual property. This poses a significant threat to the diversity and authenticity of Kadokawa’s productions, especially in the anime and manga spaces.

The Big Picture: A Crossroads for Gaming and Media

If the acquisition moves forward, Sony would not only solidify its dominance in gaming but also establish a powerful foothold in the anime and manga industries. However, this comes with the risk of alienating fans who value Kadokawa’s (and its subsidiaries') current independence and creativity.

The real test will be whether Sony can balance its corporate interests with the cultural and creative legacy of Kadokawa’s properties. This acquisition could either mark a new era of growth for Kadokawa’s subsidiaries or, as many fans fear, lead to the decline of beloved franchises and tighter control over creative industries.