FromSoftware video games

FromSoftware, Inc. is a prestigious Japanese video game development company world-renowned for defining the 'Soulslike' genre. Founded in 1986 by Naotoshi Zin, the company initially focused on business software before transitioning to the gaming industry in 1994 with the release of King's Field for the PlayStation. Since then, it has produced critically acclaimed franchises such as Armored Core, Dark Souls, Bloodborne, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, and the global phenomenon Elden Ring.

Ownership of the studio is primarily held by the Kadokawa Corporation, which acquired a majority stake in 2014. As of early 2026, Kadokawa remains the controlling parent company (holding approximately 70%), while Sony Interactive Entertainment and Tencent (through its subsidiary Sixjoy Hong Kong) maintain significant minority stakes of 14% and 16% respectively. Sony's influence has notably increased following strategic investments in the parent company, Kadokawa, further solidifying the partnership between the developer and the PlayStation ecosystem.

While FromSoftware develops its games in-house at its studios in Tokyo and Fukuoka, Japan, the manufacturing of physical discs and distribution are handled by various global partners. These include Bandai Namco Entertainment for international releases of the Dark Souls series and Elden Ring, and Sony Interactive Entertainment or Activision for other specific titles. The creative leadership continues under Hidetaka Miyazaki, who serves as the company's representative director and president.