Regular readers will know that associate editor Robert Ramsey is a big fan of Koei Tecmo's output, from the various Warriors games right the way through to Toukiden. But something we always discuss here at Push Square Towers is how the publisher's business can possibly be viable: it deploys dozens of games every year and rarely do they ever break into the UK sales charts.
Well, except one: Nioh released to universal critical acclaim earlier this year, and has gone on to be a big seller for the firm. Sony helped publish the game in the West β a move which clearly raised its profile significantly β and it looks like everything's paid off, as speaking with MCV UK, general manager Yasutomo Watanabe has revealed that it's the company's "most successful title in the West".
He said: "This position essentially validates our strategy to expand our brand and user-base in the long term and proves that our titles can reach the highest spots in the charts. With overall positive player feedback and media reception we are very pleased by this result and hope to repeat it in the near future."
Whether it will be a Nioh sequel or a new Ninja Gaiden that aims to build on the success, Watanabe is keeping that close to his chest. But it's clear that the company's learned a lot from the success of its Samurai Souls outing, and we're sure that it will take all of those lessons into its next project β whatever that turns out to be.
[source mcvuk.com]
Comments 11
So it wasn't something with the Zelda named slapped on it?
Quelle surprise.
@BLP_Software I'm not sure whether they're counting that. I assume they are?
I would have thought one of the more recent Ninja Gaiden games would be its best, but I guess not. Pretty amazing to see Nioh launch so strongly in the end.
@BLP_Software ps4 has a bigger install base than the 3ds, the 3ds probably mostly consist of casual gamers that would't buy a zelda game anyway (no offense) and the wiiU and 3ds versions are probably counted as different titles.
Still it's suprising that a new IP outsells a household IP spin off.
@darkswabber @get2sammyb
They had shipped 1 million of it by Jan 2015. So not counting the 3DS version it did pretty well.
I suppose one factor there is it didn't actually have the household IP name on it. Nowhere did it say Zelda.
And yeah, 3DS wouldn't buy Zelda. It's why it has Ocarina, Majora, Link Between Worlds and Triforce Heroes, as well as Four Swords on it. I don't know how well those sold though.
And don't worry swabber, you couldn't offend me regarding Zelda: I historically loathe anything the series has done in 3D and 2D I find a slog a good number of the times its had games like that.
And regarding install base size: 3DS is at 65 million as of December, PS4 at 57 million. It's not bigger, but it's probably more individual consumers.
As for whether they would count Hyrule Warriors....the IP holder had limited development involvement apparently, but just like Nioh, was published by the Platform holder in the West.
I think it was a mix of not having the household name actually on the box, being on two systems the West doesn't give a toss about, and install base.
But seriously, Nioh did better than I thought. I figured it would be niche as all get out but no, there it is. Well done Koei.
Now about that Ninja Gaiden...
So basically copy and add to other successful games' formulas? : p
They attracted the Dark Souls crowd and people got to try it and be impressed through the free betas.
They made an excellent game though.
Well f****** deserved!
Can't say I'm surprised. Hard work pays off. The recent 1.06 update added 10 new missions.
Need to get back to those just before the first piece of DLC drops. Refresh that muscle memory- the game is brutal.
Japanese games sold best on ps4
Man this game was amazing; I'm really glad to see that it is doing well and that there is a great future for games like this! I really cannot wait for DLC for this game and really need to try out the new missions.
I wonder if it's top grossing though. Some people love buying those costumes for DOA.
Nice congrats Koei Tecmo on new IP! Hope Konami and Capcom also get the hint.... go beyond Res Evil and Metal Gear!!
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