Kadokawa, now a Sony Group subsidiary, sets ambitious publishing goals. Aiming for 9,000 original IP publications annually by fiscal year 2027, this represents a 50% increase from their 2023 output. This aggressive expansion is fueled by Sony's significant investment and acquisition of a 10% stake.

Kadokawa President Takeshi Natsuno, in an interview with Nikkei, outlined the plan. The strategy includes leveraging Sony's global distribution network for international expansion and a significant increase in editorial staff to approximately 1,000, a 40% rise. A medium-term plan projects 7,000 titles by fiscal 2025.

This expansion will encompass a "media mix strategy," adapting successful IPs into anime, games, and other media. Natsuno emphasizes the goal of creating a system fostering diversity and leading to major successes.

The synergy benefits Sony as well, particularly Crunchyroll, its anime streaming platform with over 15 million subscribers. This partnership will significantly expand Crunchyroll's anime library.

Kadokawa's extensive IP portfolio, including titles like Bungo Stray Dogs, Oshi no Ko, and The Rising of the Shield Hero, along with game IPs such as Elden Ring and Dragon Quest, provides a strong foundation for this ambitious growth. Sony's interest in multimedia expansion, including live-action adaptations and international distribution, aligns perfectly with Kadokawa's goals.