Game company gumi recently reported a significant net loss of 5.934 billion yen in the fiscal year spanning from May 2023 to April 2024. This loss marks an increase from the previous fiscal year, where the company reported a net loss of 4.459 billion yen. The main contributing factor to this loss was the poor performance of its flagship game title, Aster Tatariqus, which resulted in a software impairment loss of 2.8 billion yen.
In response to this financial setback, gumi has announced plans to ask 80 employees to voluntarily retire by July 31. The company aims to recover from this loss by focusing on improving the performance of Aster Tatariqus and implementing strategies such as halting the development of high-risk original titles, releasing profitable games using their own game engine and leading intellectual properties, and expanding development contracts.
Employees who choose to take the voluntary retirement option will receive a special retirement payment totaling 100 million yen. gumi is also looking towards the future with the acquisition of distribution rights for a mobile online game based on the popular anime adaptation of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure manga, set to be released in 2025.
Overall, gumi remains optimistic about its prospects for the upcoming fiscal year and is taking proactive steps to address its financial challenges. By streamlining operations, focusing on profitable ventures, and optimizing its game development strategies, the company aims to overcome its current setbacks and achieve sustainable growth in the competitive gaming industry.