Table of Contents

Does Konami Still Make Video Games? The Phoenix Rises from the Pachinko Parlor

Yes, Konami absolutely still makes video games. The narrative of Konami abandoning video games entirely is a common misconception, fueled by their shift in strategy a few years back. While they did pivot towards mobile gaming and other ventures, they never completely abandoned the core business that made them a household name. Think of it less as a complete departure and more of a strategic repositioning. Now, they are demonstrably returning with full force to their original passion.

Konami’s Shifting Landscape: More Than Just Mobile

The infamous announcement from Konami Digital Entertainment CEO, Hideki Hayakawa, about focusing on mobile platforms certainly stirred up a hornet’s nest among fans. This, coupled with the very public departure of Hideo Kojima, creator of the Metal Gear Solid franchise, created a perfect storm that led many to believe Konami was done with traditional console gaming.

However, the reality is far more nuanced. Konami didn’t stop making games; they simply adapted to the changing landscape of the gaming industry. They recognized the immense potential of the mobile market, particularly in Japan, and shifted resources accordingly. This also meant focusing on the Japanese market, with games designed specifically for that audience. This focus doesn’t mean the company abandoned console gaming.

Konami’s financial success, though showing some slowing growth, demonstrates their ability to adapt and thrive. With revenue of 314,321 million yen ($2.3 billion) in the 2022-2023 financial year, a 4.9% increase from the previous year, proves they are still a major player in the entertainment industry. While video games account for the largest portion of their profit, Konami diversified to mitigate risk. Beyond games, Konami has casinos worldwide and operates health and physical fitness clubs across Japan.

The Return to Form: New Studios and Revived Classics

Recent developments clearly point to Konami’s renewed commitment to console and PC gaming. The opening of a new studio in Osaka signals a significant investment in game development. This signals a concerted effort to provide the quality experiences that gamers have come to expect from Konami.

Furthermore, the announcement of projects like the Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1 and the remake of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater (Metal Gear Solid Δ) confirm that Konami intends to revive its beloved franchises. This demonstrates that they understand the value of their intellectual property and are actively working to bring these classic games to a new generation of players, while simultaneously appealing to veteran fans.

Konami states that they plan to achieve further sustainable growth by strengthening their product development capabilities. This coupled with increased salaries, show that Konami wants to invest in the next generation of gamers.

The Kojima Factor: Past Tensions and Future Potential

It’s impossible to discuss Konami’s recent history without addressing the departure of Hideo Kojima. While the exact reasons for his exit are complex and contested, it’s clear that there were creative and financial disagreements. Rika Muranaka states reasons Konami fired Kojima after multiple songs were turned down.

While Kojima’s departure was undoubtedly a loss, it doesn’t define Konami’s future. Konami still owns the rights to the Metal Gear Solid franchise, and they are now taking the reins in developing and releasing new entries in the series. This allows for Konami to take the franchise in a new direction. It remains to be seen how these projects will be received, but it is evident Konami is aware of the demand. It would be interesting to explore how game design principles taught by the Games Learning Society could influence future Konami titles. The GamesLearningSociety.org’s resources offer valuable insights into engaging players effectively.

Konami Today: A Diversified Entertainment Giant

Konami Group Corporation, a Japanese multinational entertainment company, is far more than just a video game developer. Headquartered in Chūō, Tokyo, it is involved in a wide range of activities, including:

Trading Cards: Manufacturer and distributor of the Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG.
Anime & Tokusatsu: Production and distribution of anime and tokusatsu series.
Pachinko & Slot Machines: A significant player in the Japanese gambling market.
Arcade Cabinets: Development and manufacturing of arcade games.
Health & Fitness Clubs: Operation of fitness centers across Japan.

This diversification provides Konami with a stable financial foundation, allowing them to weather the ups and downs of the video game market.

The Future of Konami Games

The future of Konami in the video game industry looks promising. With new studios, revived franchises, and a diversified business model, they are well-positioned for continued success. While some fans may still harbor resentment over past decisions, it’s important to recognize that Konami is actively working to regain their trust and deliver the quality gaming experiences that they are known for.

The upcoming releases of Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1 and Metal Gear Solid Δ will be critical in shaping Konami’s image. These games will serve as a litmus test for whether Konami can successfully recapture the magic of its past while also appealing to modern audiences. Time will tell, but for now, the future of Konami gaming seems brighter than it has in years.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Konami and Video Games

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to provide additional valuable information about Konami:

Is it true that Konami stopped making video games after the Kojima incident? No, Konami never completely stopped making video games. While they shifted focus to mobile gaming and other ventures, they continued to develop and release games, particularly for the Japanese market.
Does Konami still own the Metal Gear Solid franchise? Yes, Konami still owns the rights to the Metal Gear Solid franchise.
Will there be any new Metal Gear Solid games after Hideo Kojima left? Yes, Konami has announced Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1 and Metal Gear Solid Δ (a remake of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater), indicating a renewed focus on the franchise.
Why did Konami fire Hideo Kojima? The exact reasons are complex and disputed, but reports suggest creative differences, financial disagreements, and concerns over project management.
Is Konami still a successful company? Yes, Konami is still a successful company. Despite some slowing growth, their financial reports show a significant revenue stream from their gaming and systems division, as well as other ventures like health and fitness and casino operations.
What is Konami’s biggest money maker? Video games account for the most profit. However, Konami has other revenue sources that diversify and secure their income.
Does Konami still make Dance Dance Revolution (DDR) games? DDR is still around, but nowadays it’s limited to arcade releases.
Does Konami allow fan games based on their intellectual property? Generally, Konami Digital Entertainment B.V. does not object to fans using copyrighted materials for non-commercial purposes, and in a manner which does not intentionally spoil the plot of a game for other players.
Why did Konami focus on mobile games for a period? Konami recognized the immense potential of the mobile gaming market, particularly in Japan, and shifted resources accordingly.
Does Konami still own the Yu-Gi-Oh! Trading Card Game? Yes, Konami is now the manufacturer and distributor of the Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG.
Has PlayStation bought Konami? No, Konami was not among the companies Sony purchased in 2021.
What happened to Konami after Kojima left? Konami reorganized its development teams and shifted its focus, but the company continued to develop and release video games.
Is Konami making a comeback in console gaming? Yes, Konami’s plans to return to releasing big and proper games are being solidified with a new studio opening in Osaka.
Who owns Konami? Kagemasa Kozuki is the founder and chairman of Konami Holdings.
What other properties does Konami own? Konami’s video game franchises include Silent Hill, Castlevania, Contra, Frogger, Tokimeki Memorial, Parodius, Gradius, Yu-Gi-Oh!, Suikoden, and eFootball.

Does Konami make video games anymore?