Full Breakdown
Koei Tecmo Confirms Development of New Original IP “FUJI” Under Japan’s IP360 Initiative
6/30/2026, 7:50:07 PM
Core Event: New Action Franchise Codenamed “FUJI”
METI’s public listing confirms Koei Tecmo is developing a new action-oriented franchise under the working title “FUJI”. The project is part of the IP360 program, which funds Japanese cultural exports. The game is described as an action title with Eastern visual influences, aimed at global success. Development proceeds in parallel with the upcoming Wo Long 2: Wings of Ember, slated for release next year.
Background & Context: Historical Action Legacy and Government Support
Since its 2009 merger, Koei Tecmo has delivered large-scale historical action series such as Dynasty Warriors and Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty. Its subsidiaries—including Team Ninja, Omega Force, and Gust—have added hits like Pokopia, which sold over 2.2 million units in four days and became the highest-rated Pokémon entry on Switch 2. In March 2026 the IP360 initiative began offering subsidies for original IPs; Koei Tecmo secured funding for “FUJI”.
Timeline: Key Development Milestones
Mar 2026 – METI lists “FUJI” for IP360 funding. 2026 – Koei Tecmo reports record profits. 2026 Xbox Games Showcase announces Wo Long 2: Wings of Ember. Late 2026/early 2027 – expected “FUJI” reveal after Wo Long 2 launch.
Data & Statistics: Financial Performance and Recent Successes
Koei Tecmo posted record profits for FY ending March 2026, its strongest performance to date. Pokopia moved >2.2 million units in four days, becoming the highest-rated Pokémon entry on Switch 2. The IP360 subsidy for “FUJI” is undisclosed.
Why It Matters: Global Reach and Cultural Impact
“FUJI” aims to turn Koei Tecmo’s Eastern-styled action expertise into a global franchise, using government support to reach worldwide audiences. A hit would diversify the studio beyond historical series, boost Japan’s soft-power in gaming, and challenge rivals like Sony’s “Ghost of Yotei”.
Official Statements & Responses
METI’s listing confirms “FUJI” exists, participates in IP360, and is a large-scale development. Koei Tecmo has issued no official comment.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources disagree on whether “FUJI” will reuse Nioh or musou mechanics; some say it is unrelated. No release window, platform, or gameplay details are known.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The new franchise from Koei Tecmo is expected to feature "oriental aesthetics" built as an action game.” — METI, Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry
- “The developer also has lofty expectations for the project, according to the project's description, aiming to create a "worldwide hit and broad IP expansion" with the game as the leading element of the franchise.” — METI, Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry
- “17 hours ago vpesports The Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry accidentally leaked information about a secret action game from Koei Tecmo, codenamed FUJI, being developed as part of the government’s IP360 program to promote local culture.” — VPEsports
- “FUJI is a new intellectual property designed to leverage the studio’s expertise in Eastern aesthetics and dynamic action.” — SE7EN.WS
What’s Next: Anticipated Reveal and Expansion Plans
Koei Tecmo is expected to reveal “FUJI” after Wo Long 2’s launch, likely in late 2026, with multilingual support and potential cross-media expansions planned.
