Koei scores exclusive Nippon Ichi deal

Cult RPG developer Nippon Ichi has signed a deal with publisher Koei that gives the company the exclusive rights to distribute its titles in the UK.

The first games to appear as a result of the agreement will be Ar Tonelico 2: Melody of the Metafalica on PS2 (May 29th), Prinny: Can I Really Be The Hero? on PSP (June 26th) and PS3 outing Cross Edge (July 10th).

This is an amazing opportunity for both Koei and Nippon Ichi,” Koei Ltd’s VP of sales and marketing Will Curley stated.

With Koei expanding its business in Europe and the UK, and Nippon Ichi seeking to bring its hugely popular titles to a wider UK audience, this distribution deal is the perfect springboard to future success for both companies.”

Nippon Ichi’s Jack Niida added: The signing of the distribution deal marks an exciting time for Nippon Ichi. As we look to bring our games to a new fan base in the UK, we couldn’t hope for a better partner than Koei. Both Nippon Ichi and Koei publish games which have attracted loyal followers and are considered leaders in their field, so this is a very natural partnership for us.”

Nippon Ichi’s catalogue includes cult titles such as Disgaea, Atelier Iris, La Pucelle: Tactics, Phantom Brave and GrimGrimoire.