Idea Factory, the Japanese developer and publisher known for games like dating sim Hakuoki and Hyperdimension Neptunia, may publish their own games in the west.
Another Japanese developer will be setting up shop in the states. Idea Factory will open a California-based branch called Idea Factory International focused on “providing general and overall information regarding such Idea Factory properties to North American and European fans, as well as strengthen the Idea Factory brand around the globe,” a press release stated. The company plans to make animation, videogames, and social apps available to the world.
Idea Factory is known for many of its otome games, dating sim games directed at a female audience, many of which do not receive western releases. Hakuoki, the dating sim series set in the samurai period of Japan, was published by Aksys in North America. Hyperdimension Neptunia, another well-known Idea Factory title, was published by NIS America. With Idea Factory’s new branch in the west, it is entirely possible they will publish more of their own games rather than third party companies publishing their games.
Former NISA president Harusato Akenaga will be the chief executive officer of Idea Factory International. Idea Factory launched a website for Idea Factory International; however, the full website has not launched yet. The company’s next project will be to develop a new RPG with Disgaea 4 director Masahiro Yamamoto.
Source: Polygon, Anime News Network
