Gaming companies are numerous in Japan, with some primarily acting as developers (e.g., FromSoftware, Cyberconnect 2, Game Freak), with others also serving as publishers (e.g., Square Enix, Sega, Nintendo, Sony, Bandai Namco, Konami). The following companies are the most wel-known.
Nintendo
Established in 1889, Nintendo was originally a playing cards company but is now one of the most recognized video game brands. Well-known Nintendo game series include Super Mario (1985–), Legend of Zelda (1986–), Donkey Kong (1981–), and Animal Crossing (2001–). Nintendo has released several gaming consoles such as the Nintendo Switch (2017), Nintendo Wii (2006), and Nintendo GameCube (2001), as well as handheld consoles like the Nintendo 3DS (2011) and Game Boy (1989). Nintendo’s consoles have been the home for the Pokémon series since its inception.
Sega
Founded in 1960, Sega started its operations as a producer of arcade game machines, but nowadays it is primarily known as a developer and publisher of video games. Sonic the Hedgehog is Sega’s most known mascot, making its debut in 1991 on Sega’s own gaming console, the Sega Mega Drive (1989). Apart from developing the Sonic series, Sega also acts as a producer and publisher for many other game developers. One of Sega’s subsidiaries is Atlus, known for the Persona (1996–) and Shin Megami Tensei (1987–) game series.
Sony
Founded in 1946, Sony is a conglomerate whose video game operations started in 1994 with the release of the first PlayStation console. Sony has released a total of five home consoles and two handheld consoles. Popular game series published by Sony include Capcom’s Resident Evil (1996) and Konami’s Metal Gear (1987). There are many game developers working under Sony, including the Finnish game development company Housemarque (e.g. Returnal, 2021).
