Sony could control the anime industry

According to a Reuters report, Sony is in advanced negotiations to acquire Kadokawa Corporation, one of the giants of the publishing, anime and video game industry in Japan. Although both companies have declined to comment on the talks, sources familiar with the matter suggest the deal could close in the coming weeks. Currently, Sony already owns a 2% stake in Kadokawa and also has a stake in FromSoftware, the Kadokawa subsidiary known for developing the hit video game "Elden Ring." If completed, this acquisition would mark a massive strategic move for Sony, further cementing its dominance in global entertainment.

Kadokawa, a conglomerate that ranges from manga and light novel publications to anime and video game production, includes in its portfolio studios such as Doga Kobo, ENGI and Kinema Citrus, as well as emblematic titles such as "Re:ZERO -Starting Life in Another World-" and "KonoSuba: God's Blessing on This Wonderful World!" For its part, Sony already controls major players in the anime industry, such as Aniplex, and owns distribution platforms such as Crunchyroll, which this year exceeded 15 million paying subscribers. This acquisition, if it goes through, would mean that Sony would have access to a vast catalog of intellectual properties and a network of studios that would cover much of the production of anime and video games in Japan.

Potential impact and concerns on the industry

The announcement has generated intense debate among fans and industry experts. Many fear that this merger could result in a monopoly that centralizes much of anime and video games under a single corporate entity. This would not only affect production and distribution in Japan, but also globally, limiting creative diversity and strengthening the exclusivity of titles on platforms such as Crunchyroll and PlayStation. In addition, the potential removal of Kadokawa-produced works from other streaming platforms could reduce accessibility for consumers.

The acquisition also raises concerns about the feasibility of maintaining the essence and boldness of Kadokawa's works. The company is known for its diverse and sometimes risky approach to content creation, especially in the light novel and isekai genre. However, some fans fear that Sony, known for its censorship policies on games and content from its offices in California, could impose restrictions that radically transform the spirit of Kadokawa's works.

On the other hand, this consolidation could have benefits, such as increased access to financial and technological resources for Kadokawa's studios, as well as the opportunity to amplify the reach of his works in global markets. However, experts point to the need for strict antitrust oversight, given the huge impact this acquisition would have on the Japanese and global entertainment industry.

Sony's potential purchase of Kadokawa would not only change the landscape of the anime and video game industry, but it would also test the limits of antitrust laws in Japan and internationally. Meanwhile, the world is watching expectantly as these negotiations unfold.

Source: Reuters