Sony Becomes Largest Shareholder in Elden Ring Developer’s Parent Company

Sony has become the largest shareholder in Kadokawa, the parent company of Elden Ring developer FromSoftware.

The two companies have reached an agreement for Sony to invest 50 billion yen (about $317 million) into Kadokawa, giving Sony a 10% stake in the company.

This deal follows Sony’s interest in acquiring Kadokawa last month, but instead of a full acquisition, Sony will focus on future collaborations.

These include live-action movies, TV shows, and anime based on Kadokawa’s properties, as well as expanding the publishing of the company’s games.

While FromSoftware remains an important part of Kadokawa’s portfolio, the company also owns other game developers like Spike Chunsoft (known for Danganronpa) and Acquire (creator of Octopath Traveler).

Kadokawa also has a significant presence in Japanese media, including film, books, magazines, and anime.

Sony and FromSoftware have had a long history together, dating back to the original PlayStation. FromSoftware’s early games like King’s Field and Armored Core were exclusive to PlayStation.

The relationship continued with Demon’s Souls in 2009 and Bloodborne in 2015. While FromSoftware has worked with Bandai Namco for most of its titles, Sony’s investment further strengthens their partnership.