Nintendo has announced the acquisition of Bandai Namco Studios Singapore (BNSS), the Singapore-based development arm of Japanese entertainment company Bandai Namco Group. The studio will now operate as a subsidiary under the name Nintendo Studios Singapore.
The move is part of Nintendo’s broader strategy to strengthen its development capabilities. The company stated that the acquisition was made “for the purpose of strengthening its development structure”. Nintendo and BNSS already share a business relationship, with the Singapore studio contributing to titles such as the Nintendo-published Splatoon 3. According to Nintendo, BNSS is particularly recognised for its “strong expertise in creating in-game art assets”.
Acquisition details and timeline
Nintendo plans to acquire 80% of BNSS’s shares on 1 April 2026. The remaining shares will be purchased at a later date, once operations in the new subsidiary have stabilised. While Nintendo does occasionally acquire studios, the purchase of a local Singaporean studio is notable.
The acquisition aligns with a statement made in Nintendo’s most recent quarterly financial report, released on 5 November, which highlighted the company’s intention to acquire additional development studios and convert them into subsidiaries to enhance its game development capabilities. Industry observers suggest that the BNSS acquisition is a direct reflection of this strategy in action.
Bnss’s portfolio and expertise
BNSS has served as a support studio for several high-profile franchises, including Tekken 7 and 8, Soul Calibur VI, and Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown, all published by Bandai Namco Entertainment. Beyond supporting larger titles, the studio has also independently developed Hirogami, a 3D platformer published by indie games-focused Kakehashi Games.
The studio’s diverse portfolio and experience in both major and independent titles are expected to complement Nintendo’s development efforts. By bringing BNSS fully under its umbrella, Nintendo aims to leverage the studio’s expertise to improve the quality and scope of its future games.
This acquisition marks a significant step in Nintendo’s ongoing efforts to expand its internal development capabilities and strengthen collaboration with studios that have a proven track record in game design and art asset creation.
