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Sony invests over $1 billion in anime
Sony's move into anime continues with major acquisitions and new adaptations.
Sony is investing in the lucrative anime industry but PlayStation's role is uncertain.
Sony Invests in Anime While PlayStation Lags Behind
Sony has made significant moves in the anime market, investing heavily amid a growing global interest. In 2021, the company acquired Crunchyroll for $1.1 billion and has since partnered with notable firms like Kadokawa and Bandai Namco. This strategy aims to merge its diverse entertainment divisions, with an eye on appealing to younger audiences. Despite PlayStation executives recognizing the importance of anime, the brand's involvement in this surge seems limited. A recent announcement of an anime adaptation of the game 'Ghost of Tsushima' might indicate future direction, yet many potential synergies remain untapped. Contrastingly, other studios within Sony have thrived in this space, raising questions about internal alignment and strategy.
Key Takeaways
"The company's identification of anime as a growth vector is the right one."
This emphasizes Sony's recognition of potential in targeting anime viewers.
"Approximately 60% of anime watchers are also avid gamers."
This statistic underlines the significant overlap between the two audiences.
The anime boom presents a dual opportunity for Sony—to attract new audiences and to leverage its existing game franchises. Notably, 60% of anime viewers are also gamers, indicating a sizable overlap. However, a lack of cohesive strategy within the company appears to dampen PlayStation's ability to fully capitalize on this trend. While competitors successfully integrate anime into various formats, PlayStation seems fixated on shooter games, sidelining a broader audience that desires diverse genres. This misalignment could hinder PlayStation's growth and relevance in a rapidly evolving entertainment landscape.
Highlights
- PlayStation is missing a golden opportunity with anime fans.
- The crossover between anime and gaming is too big to ignore.
- Sony should unite, not divide, its entertainment efforts.
- Can PlayStation really afford to lack in the anime space?
Internal Strategy Conflicts Pose Risk
Sony's separate divisions for music and gaming may lead to missed opportunities in the evolving anime market. The lack of cooperation could hamper overall growth in an increasingly competitive landscape, especially as gaming popularity intersects with anime viewership.
Sony's future in anime may depend on how well PlayStation engages with this vibrant community.
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