FromSoftware Boss Pledges to Avoid Layoffs, Citing Nintendo's Iwata

Introduction In a landscape marred by layoffs and studio closures, FromSoftware, the acclaimed developer behind Elden Ring, stands as a beacon of hope. President Hidetaka Miyazaki has vowed to protect his staff from the industry's recent turmoil, citing the legacy of Nintendo's Satoru Iwata as inspiration. Miyazaki's Commitment to Staff Well-being "As long as this company is my responsibility, I would not let that happen," Miyazaki declared when asked about the possibility of layoffs at FromSoftware. He emphasized that maintaining a stable and motivated workforce is crucial for the studio's success. "People who are afraid of losing their jobs are afraid of making good things," Miyazaki said, echoing Iwata's belief that fear stifles creativity and innovation. Kadokawa's Alignment with Miyazaki's Vision Miyazaki's commitment has found support from FromSoftware's parent company, Kadokawa Corporation. "I'm pretty sure our parent company Kadokawa understands that and shares that view," Miyazaki said. This alignment of values suggests that Kadokawa values the studio's independence and long-term growth over short-term financial gains.

FromSoftware's Growth and Stability

Expansion and Simultaneous Development Despite the industry's challenges, FromSoftware has experienced significant growth in recent years. The studio has expanded its team and is now developing multiple games simultaneously, including the highly anticipated Armored Core 6. This growth reflects the studio's financial stability and its commitment to providing players with high-quality experiences. Capcom's Similar Approach FromSoftware is not alone in its stance against layoffs. Japanese game company Capcom recently made a point of raising employee pay instead of conducting layoffs. This trend suggests that some companies are prioritizing the well-being of their staff and recognizing the value of a talented and dedicated workforce.

The Legacy of Satoru Iwata

Iwata's Influence on Miyazaki Miyazaki's admiration for former Nintendo president Satoru Iwata is evident in his approach to leadership. Iwata famously took pay cuts during challenging times to avoid layoffs, a move that Miyazaki believes is essential for maintaining a positive and productive work environment. Iwata's Philosophy on Employee Value Iwata's philosophy centered on the belief that employees were the company's most valuable assets. He recognized that fear and uncertainty can hinder creativity and damage morale, leading to a decline in the quality of work. By prioritizing the well-being of his staff, Iwata fostered a culture of innovation and excellence. A Model for the Industry Iwata's legacy continues to inspire game industry leaders like Miyazaki. His belief that employees should not live in fear of losing their jobs has become a guiding principle for studios that value their teams and the quality of their work. FromSoftware's commitment to avoiding layoffs is a testament to the enduring impact of Iwata's leadership and his unwavering belief in the power of human potential.