Sega Index

Last year, after much speculation, Sega Sammy acquired Atlus via its parent company, Index, after the latter had endured financial problems. Once the acquisition was complete Atlus stated that it was continuing its development projects as normal, though Sega has now confirmed how it will restructure the acquired business — the positive is that Atlus will, as promised, maintain development activities.

Index will be split into two companies:

  • Atlus will be so-named and will have 121 employees focused on game development.
  • Index Corporation will deal with logistical matters such as distribution and advertising, and will employ 166 people.

While the original Index is being split up, it simply seems to be a managerial decision to maximise the abilities in both camps. These changes are due to take effect on 1st April.

With Atlus responsible for some key brands, including Shin Megami Tensei and Etrian Odyssey, Nintendo gamers are sure to hope that the ownership of Sega Sammy will, if anything, strengthen the studio's output and distribution in Japan and the West. With Sega and Nintendo having a solid relationship, there will also be optimism that the Shin Megami X Fire Emblem Wii U project teased last year will continue to move forward.

[source gematsu.com, via segasammy.co.jp]