Sony's Kadokawa Investment Sparks Goal of 9000 Original IPs Per Year

Kadokawa's Ambitious Plan: 9,000 Original IPs Per Year

Following a significant investment from Sony Group, acquiring 10% of its shares, Kadokawa Corporation has set a bold goal: publishing 9,000 original intellectual property (IP) titles annually by fiscal year 2027. This represents a substantial increase of 1.5 times their 2023 output. Kadokawa President Takeshi Natsuno revealed this ambitious target in an interview with the Nikkei newspaper.

This aggressive expansion strategy leverages Sony's global distribution network, significantly boosting Kadokawa's international reach. The company's medium-term management plan projects achieving 7,000 titles by fiscal year 2025, demonstrating a clear pathway to their ultimate goal. To support this growth, Kadokawa plans to increase its editorial staff by 1.4 times, reaching approximately 1,000 employees, ensuring efficient workflow and sustainable expansion.

Image From Kadokawa’s Official Website

A Media Mix Strategy for Maximum Impact

Kadokawa's strategy extends beyond sheer volume. Natsuno emphasizes a "media mix strategy," expanding existing IPs through anime and game adaptations. This diversification aims to maximize the success of their diverse portfolio. The partnership with Sony benefits both companies; Sony's Crunchyroll streaming service, with over 15 million paid subscribers, will gain access to a wealth of new anime content from Kadokawa's extensive library.

Kadokawa's impressive IP portfolio includes titles like Bungo Stray Dogs, Oshi no Ko, The Rising of the Shield Hero, Delicious in Dungeon, and My Happy Marriage. Their influence extends to the gaming world, encompassing IPs such as Elden Ring, Dragon Quest, the Danganronpa series, and Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story, thanks to their association with various development studios under the Kadokawa umbrella.

This collaboration aligns perfectly with Sony's ambitions in the multimedia market, encompassing live-action adaptations, anime co-productions, and global distribution. The synergy between these two powerhouses promises significant growth and innovation in the entertainment industry.