FromSoftware president Hidetaka Miyazaki has addressed concerns surrounding the ongoing dispute between KADOKAWA and activist investor Oasis Management, assuring fans that the studio continues to operate in an environment that allows it to create games without excessive interference.
The discussion stems from recent shareholder proposals submitted by Oasis Management, KADOKAWA’s largest shareholder. The investment firm has criticized the company’s current leadership and is urging shareholders to oppose the reappointment of KADOKAWA’s president at the company’s annual general meeting on June 24. KADOKAWA has rejected the claims, setting the stage for a highly publicized conflict between the two sides.
The situation has attracted particular attention from gaming fans because Oasis Management’s statement specifically referenced FromSoftware, describing the Elden Ring developer as KADOKAWA’s “most strategically important subsidiary” while arguing that its value is not being fully utilized.
In comments provided to Den Faminico Gamer, Miyazaki said he was aware of the reports but noted that he was unable to comment extensively on the matter.
“Regarding the matter you inquired about, I am aware of all the facts that have been reported. However, we are not in a position to know any further details, and there are many other people involved besides ourselves, so to be honest, it is difficult for us to comment in depth on this matter.”
Miyazaki went on to express satisfaction with the studio’s current working conditions, emphasizing the importance of preserving the creative freedom that has helped define FromSoftware’s games.
“First of all, I am generally satisfied with the development environment that FromSoftware currently has.
I wouldn’t say there aren’t any areas for improvement, but we are able to freely create the games we want to make without excessive interference. And I believe that maintaining such an environment in the future, allowing us to concentrate solely on game development as much as possible, is of utmost importance to both myself and to us at FromSoftware.”
He added that the company’s ability to produce successful and meaningful games is closely tied to that development environment.
“If we have been able to create something valuable for our users up until now, I believe one of the major sources of that has been the environment we have been working in.”
Miyazaki concluded his message with a direct statement to fans, suggesting that the studio has more projects in the pipeline beyond those already publicly revealed.
“Finally, if our users happen to read this message, we want to assure you that we will continue to work harder than ever to create truly valuable games. We hope you will look forward to our upcoming titles, both those already announced and those yet to be announced.”
While Miyazaki avoided taking a position on the shareholder dispute itself, his comments are likely to reassure fans concerned that external pressure from investors could affect FromSoftware’s creative direction or future game development efforts.
