Atlus Implements Salary Increases and Reduced Overtime for Employees

Atlus, the Japanese video game developer known for popular franchises such as Persona and Shin Megami Tensei, announced significant changes to its employee compensation structure, effective April 2026. The company will increase starting salaries for new graduates from 300,000 yen (approximately $1,880 USD) to 330,000 yen (about $2,070 USD). Additionally, the average annual salary for both full-time and contract employees will rise by 15%. Alongside these salary adjustments, Atlus will reduce fixed overtime hours from 30 to 20 hours per month.

Persona developer Atlus to raise starting salaries for new hires and increase existing employees’ base pay by 15%. Fixed overtime to be reducedThe creators of Persona decided to increase salaries and reduce overtime workIn an industry beset by layoffs and crunch, Japanese publisher Atlus is raising salaries and working to reduce fixed overtime

Atlus stated that these changes aim to "foster the creativity and improve the productivity of every individual employee." The company emphasized the importance of investing in human resources to maintain a stable workforce capable of delivering high-quality gaming experiences. This move aligns with broader trends in the Japanese gaming industry, where companies like Sega and Capcom have also implemented salary increases to attract and retain talent amid rising living costs and competitive pressures.

Persona developer Atlus to raise starting salaries for new hires and increase existing employees’ base pay by 15%. Fixed overtime to be reduced

The decision by Atlus follows similar actions taken by its parent company, Sega, which announced salary increases for entry-level positions and a general pay raise for existing employees in November 2025. As the gaming industry faces challenges related to inflation and employee retention, companies are increasingly recognizing the need to enhance working conditions and compensation to secure skilled developers.

Persona developer Atlus to raise starting salaries for new hires and increase existing employees’ base pay by 15%. Fixed overtime to be reduced

In its press release, Atlus expressed a commitment to supporting employees in maintaining stable lives and creating a work environment that fosters security and productivity. The company noted, “Despite the fluctuations in external factors such as rising prices, we will aim to support our employees so they can live stable lives.”

Persona developer Atlus to raise starting salaries for new hires and increase existing employees’ base pay by 15%. Fixed overtime to be reduced

While the changes have been generally well-received, some critics argue that the adjustments may not be sufficient to address the broader issues of work-life balance and job satisfaction in the gaming industry. Concerns remain about the overall workload and the impact of overtime on employee well-being, despite the reduction in fixed overtime hours.

The creators of Persona decided to increase salaries and reduce overtime work

As Atlus prepares to implement these changes, the company is also focused on upcoming projects, including the anticipated release of Persona 4 Revival. The adjustments to employee compensation and working conditions may play a crucial role in shaping the company's future productivity and success in an increasingly competitive market.

The creators of Persona decided to increase salaries and reduce overtime work

• “We will continue to support our employees in maintaining stable lives and create an environment where they can work with greater peace of mind,” — Atlus Statement

In an industry beset by layoffs and crunch, Japanese publisher Atlus is raising salaries and working to reduce fixed overtime

• “Atlus says that the decision to raise base salaries comes as a way to “foster the creativity and improve the productivity of every individual employee,” arguing that investment in human resources is absolutely essential in order to keep delivering inspirational experiences to their audience.” — Atlus Statement

Persona developer Atlus to raise starting salaries for new hires and increase existing employees’ base pay by 15%. Fixed overtime to be reduced