Bandai Namco has stunned the gaming industry with a massive 995.1% surge in digital profits during its fiscal year ending March 2025, proving its resilience in the face of widespread challenges.
Despite facing a turbulent year marked by internal restructuring and the cancellation of several game projects—including the closure of its MMORPG Blue Protocol and the mobile title Tales of the Rays—Bandai Namco has emerged stronger than ever. The company reportedly laid off more than 100 employees between April 2024 and February 2025, according to multiple sources. Still, its core gaming division has dramatically outperformed expectations.
According to GameBiz, the Japanese gaming giant pulled in over $3 billion in sales for its digital entertainment segment, beating its own forecast of $2.5 billion. This historic jump is attributed largely to the enduring success of major titles such as Elden Ring and Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero.
Elden Ring, in particular, played a central role in this rebound. The release of the long-anticipated Shadow of the Erdtree DLC propelled the game back to the top of monthly sales charts in June 2024—marking its first return to the number one spot since its 2022 debut. That resurgence not only reignited global interest but also drove substantial digital revenue through game purchases and add-on content.
Meanwhile, Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero further energized the fanbase and expanded Bandai Namco’s reach, especially in Western markets. The company’s strategic focus on high-value IPs and cross-platform synergy continues to be a key part of its growth engine.
Despite the internal turmoil and tough decisions made during the year, Bandai Namco’s ability to pivot and focus on its strongest assets has paid off handsomely. With new content, anticipated releases, and a revitalized global strategy, the company appears poised for sustained momentum in the gaming sector.