If you’re into immersive gameplay, anime-inspired visuals, and legacy-defining experiences, then it’s time to explore Bandai Namco Games. As one of the most influential players in the gaming world, Bandai Namco Entertainment offers a wide variety of adventures, stories, and challenges across nearly every genre.
Here at Gamespublisher.com, we help gamers, developers, and analysts explore major trends in game development and publishing. Few names hold more weight in the industry than Bandai Namco Entertainment. From the earliest arcade games to today’s sprawling RPGs and fighting game tournaments, this publisher has helped shape what modern gaming looks like.
Their impact isn’t just historical. Rather, it continues to shape what comes next in both game design and player expectations. Therefore, getting familiar with their catalog is essential for anyone passionate about gaming — whether you’re a fan or a future game developer.
Bandai Namco Entertainment Games History and Legacy
Formation and Evolution of Bandai Namco
To understand the present, we must first look at the past. In 2006, Bandai Namco Entertainment Games emerged from a merger between two Japanese powerhouses. On one hand, Bandai was renowned for toys and licensed content; on the other, Namco gained fame through hit arcade games like Pac-Man. Together, they formed a legacy that continues to shape the gaming world.
Together, they formed a publishing giant. Important milestones include:
- The 1980 release of Pac-Man, which redefined video game genres forever.
- Tekken first launched in 1994, introducing players to one of the early 3D fighting game experiences.
- A shift to more cinematic and international titles during the 2010s.
This merger combined creativity with production power, giving rise to a new era of game development excellence.
Influence on Arcade and Console Culture
For many players, their first gaming memory involves a Bandai Namco arcade game. Titles such as Time Crisis, Galaga, and Ridge Racer made Namco a household name.
However, their success wasn’t limited to arcades. As gaming moved into homes, Bandai Namco Entertainment games made that leap smoothly. They focused on console performance and storytelling, delivering fan favorites like:
- Tekken on PlayStation
- Soulcalibur across multiple platforms
- Tales series on home consoles and handhelds
Because of this, they’ve remained relevant across decades and platforms.
Bandai Namco Entertainment Games Popular Franchises
🥋 Tekken Series
| Title | Release Date | Genre | Platforms | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tekken 3 | Mar 20, 1997 | Fighting | PS1 | Classic arcade fighter that redefined 3D combat mechanics. |
| Tekken 5 | Mar 31, 2005 | Fighting | PS2 | Enhanced graphics and storytelling elements. |
| Tekken 6 | Nov 26, 2009 | Fighting | PS3, Xbox 360, PSP | Introduced Rage system and Bound mechanic. |
| Tekken 7 | Jun 2, 2017 | Fighting | PC, PS4, Xbox | Competitive fighter with cinematic story and esports focus. |
| Tekken 8 | January 26, 2024 | Fighting | PC, PS5, Xbox Series | Latest entry featuring Unreal Engine 5 visuals, Heat system, and expanded story mode. |
🗡 Tales Series
| Title | Release Date | Genre | Platforms | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tales of Symphonia | Jul 13, 2004 | JRPG | GameCube, PS2, PC, Switch | Classic JRPG featuring co-op battle system and dual-world narrative. |
| Tales of Vesperia | Aug 26, 2008 | JRPG | Xbox 360, PS3, PC, Switch | Beloved title with updated graphics and expanded content in Definitive Edition. |
| Tales of Zestiria | Oct 20, 2015 | JRPG | PC, PS3, PS4 | Open-field battle system and elemental spirits. |
| Tales of Berseria | Jan 24, 2017 | JRPG | PC, PS3, PS4 | Darker story with a strong female lead and dynamic combat. |
| Tales of Arise | Sept 10, 2021 | JRPG | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox | Award-winning entry featuring a fresh start, high-end visuals, and fast combat. |
⚔️ Dark Souls & Elden Ring Series (FromSoftware Collabs)
| Title | Release Date | Genre | Platforms | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dark Souls | Sep 22, 2011 | Action RPG | PC, PS3, Xbox | The game that launched the “Souls-like” subgenre. |
| Dark Souls II | Mar 11, 2014 | Action RPG | PC, PS3, Xbox | Expanded mechanics with more flexibility and challenge. |
| Dark Souls III | Mar 24, 2016 | Action RPG | PC, PS4, Xbox | Fast-paced combat and refined level design. |
| Elden Ring | Feb 25, 2022 | Action RPG | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox | Open-world RPG combining Souls gameplay with lore by George R.R. Martin. |
🌀 Dragon Ball Games
| Title | Release Date | Genre | Platforms | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dragon Ball Xenoverse | Feb 24, 2015 | Fighting | PC, PS3, PS4, Xbox | Time-traveling fighter with character creation and RPG elements. |
| Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2 | Oct 25, 2016 | Fighting | PC, PS4, Xbox, Switch | Expanded hub world and ongoing DLC support. |
| Dragon Ball FighterZ | Jan 26, 2018 | Fighting | PC, PS4, Xbox, Switch | 2.5D anime-style fighter praised for deep mechanics and visual fidelity. |
| Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot | Jan 17, 2020 | RPG/Action | PC, PS4, Xbox, Switch | Story-driven RPG retelling the saga of Goku. |
| Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO | October 11, 2024 | Fighting | PC, PS5, Xbox Series | Next-gen revival of Budokai Tenkaichi series with massive roster and destructible arenas. |
🍥 Naruto Games
| Title | Release Date | Genre | Platforms | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm | Nov 15, 2008 | Fighting | PS3, Xbox 360 | Start of the cinematic fighting saga. |
| Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 3 | Mar 5, 2013 | Fighting | PS3, Xbox 360 | Introduced improved story and quick-time events. |
| Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 4 | Feb 4, 2016 | Fighting | PC, PS4, Xbox, Switch | Final chapter with full story coverage and stunning anime visuals. |
| Naruto x Boruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm Connections | Nov 17, 2023 | Fighting | PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox, Switch | Compilation game merging Naruto and Boruto content. |
👻 Little Nightmares Series
| Title | Release Date | Genre | Platforms | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Little Nightmares | Apr 28, 2017 | Horror/Platformer | PC, PS4, Xbox, Switch | A creepy side-scrolling adventure with symbolic horror themes. |
| Little Nightmares II | Feb 11, 2021 | Horror/Platformer | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox, Switch | A sequel with deeper lore and a second playable character. |
| Little Nightmares III (TBA) | 2025 (est.) | Horror/Platformer | PC, PS5, Xbox Series, Switch | Upcoming entry with new co-op gameplay and eerie environments. |
🏴☠️ One Piece Games
| Title | Release Date | Genre | Platforms | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One Piece: Pirate Warriors 3 | Aug 25, 2015 | Action/Musou | PC, PS3, PS4, Switch | Classic Musou-style game featuring arcs up to Dressrosa. |
| One Piece: Pirate Warriors 4 | Mar 27, 2020 | Action/Musou | PC, PS4, Xbox, Switch | Updated combat and Wano arc characters and settings. |
| One Piece Odyssey | Jan 13, 2023 | Turn-based RPG | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox | Original RPG adventure with new characters created by Eiichiro Oda. |
⚔️ Soulcalibur Series
| Title | Release Date | Genre | Platforms | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soulcalibur II | Aug 27, 2003 | Fighting | PS2, Xbox, GameCube | Weapon-based fighter with iconic guest characters (Link, Heihachi, etc.). |
| Soulcalibur IV | Jul 29, 2008 | Fighting | PS3, Xbox 360 | Introduced Star Wars characters and online play. |
| Soulcalibur V | Jan 31, 2012 | Fighting | PS3, Xbox 360 | New protagonists and refined combat system. |
| Soulcalibur VI | Oct 19, 2018 | Fighting | PC, PS4, Xbox | Franchise reboot with guest characters like Geralt from The Witcher. |
🎮 Other Major Bandai Namco Games
| Title | Release Date | Genre | Platforms | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scarlet Nexus | Jun 25, 2021 | Action RPG | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox | Anime-style RPG with telekinetic combat and dual protagonist storylines. |
| Code Vein | Sep 27, 2019 | Action RPG | PC, PS4, Xbox | Anime-inspired Souls-like with deep customization. |
| Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown | Jan 18, 2019 | Flight Combat Sim | PC, PS4, Xbox | Aerial warfare with realistic jets and dynamic weather effects. |
| Pac-Man World Re-PAC | Aug 26, 2022 | Platformer | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox, Switch | Remake of the classic 3D platformer featuring Pac-Man. |
| Pac-Man Museum+ | May 27, 2022 | Compilation | PC, PS4, Xbox, Switch | A collection of classic and modern Pac-Man games in one package. |
| Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series | Jul 8, 2022 | Platformer | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox, Switch | Remastered versions of Klonoa: Door to Phantomile and Lunatea’s Veil. |
| Blue Protocol | Q4 2025 (TBA) | MMORPG | PC, PS5, Xbox Series | Upcoming anime-style online action RPG developed with Amazon Games. |
Tekken Series
Among all fighting games, Tekken remains a heavyweight. Launched in arcades and later ported to consoles, it became a staple in competitive gaming.
Notable entries include:
- Tekken 3, which popularized 3D movement in fighters.
- Tekken 7 delivers polished gameplay and remains a staple in international esports events.
- The upcoming Tekken 8, which showcases next-gen graphics and mechanics.
Moreover, its balance of depth and accessibility has helped it stay at the top of the fighting game genres list.
Tales Series
For fans of JRPGs, the Tales series is a must-play. Not only is it developed in-house, but it also combines anime aesthetics with action-based combat.
Over the years, the series has evolved. For instance:
- Tales of Symphonia introduced voice acting and co-op gameplay.
- Tales of Vesperia became a cult classic.
- Tales of Arise reimagined the series with stunning visuals and a darker tone.
Each title builds on the last while attracting a loyal fan base, making it one of the most consistent offerings from this video game publisher.
Dark Souls and Elden Ring Collaboration
Thanks to a long-standing partnership with FromSoftware, Bandai Namco Entertainment Games successfully introduced the world to a new kind of challenge — the Souls-like.
They published:
- Dark Souls Trilogy, which revolutionized difficulty and level design.
- Elden Ring, a collaboration with George R. R. Martin that took open-world design to a new level.
Ultimately, this partnership shows that game publishing isn’t just about printing discs — it’s also about elevating creative visions.
Dragon Ball and Naruto Titles
Anime fans know that Bandai Namco Entertainment Games Naruto and Dragon Ball titles are more than just fan service. They’re polished, content-rich fighters with replay value.
Examples include:
- Dragon Ball FighterZ, known for competitive depth and style.
- Naruto Ultimate Ninja Storm 4, a cinematic experience that mirrors the anime.
Because of strong source material and refined game development, these titles are popular worldwide.
Bandai Namco Entertainment Games List by Platform
PC and Steam Titles
Bandai Namco Games on PC offer both flexibility and performance. Moreover, thanks to mod support and advanced graphics settings, these titles thrive on Steam.
Top entries include:
- Elden Ring
- Code Vein
- Tales of Arise
In addition, multiplayer options and controller support have improved their standing in the PC gaming space.
PlayStation Releases
The relationship between Namco Bandai Games and PlayStation dates back to the PS1 era. Over the years, in fact, many of their top titles launched first—or even exclusively—on Sony consoles.
These include:
- Tekken 7
- Scarlet Nexus
- Little Nightmares II
PlayStation users often receive enhanced visuals, exclusive content, or bonus features.
Xbox Releases
Although Sony had an early start, Namco Bandai Games America has ensured that Xbox users aren’t left behind. Their support for Game Pass and Smart Delivery adds value.
Some standout titles are:
- Dark Souls III
- Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2
- Ace Combat 7
Furthermore, the shift toward cross-platform play has made Xbox releases more significant than ever.
Nintendo Switch Titles
The Nintendo Switch appeals to handheld and couch co-op players, a trend fully supported by Bandai Namco’s Japan division. Their Switch lineup includes both ports and exclusives.
Examples include:
- Tales of Vesperia: Definitive Edition
- Naruto Storm Trilogy
- Captain Tsubasa: Rise of New Champions
Because of the Switch’s mobility, these games offer gaming experiences on the go.
Bandai Namco Entertainment Games Upcoming and Announced Projects
Official Trailers and Developer Updates
Several new Bandai Namco Entertainment Games are on the horizon. For example:
- Tekken 8, featuring new characters and mechanics.
- Blue Protocol, a free-to-play online RPG with anime visuals.
- Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO, which revives the Budokai Tenkaichi franchise.
These titles reflect their commitment to expanding across different game genres.
Leaks, Rumors, and Speculations
Although not confirmed, the gaming community has been buzzing. Rumors suggest:
- A Tales sequel already in pre-production
- Remasters of older Namco Bandai video games
- Possible Pac-Man World remake or reboot
While these remain speculative, they illustrate the brand’s ongoing popularity.
Bandai Namco Entertainment Games Sales and Market Performance
Best-Selling Titles of All Time
Some Bandai Namco Entertainment Games have sold millions of copies globally. These include:
- Elden Ring (25+ million units)
- Tekken 3 (8 million units)
- Pac-Man (over 48 million units across all formats)
Clearly, these sales figures show long-lasting appeal across various video game genres.
Regional Market Analysis
Let’s break down their market impact:
- In Japan, anime-based games and JRPGs dominate.
- In North America, fighters and open-world games lead.
- In Europe, RPGs and Souls-likes gain strong traction.
While each region has its own preferences, Bandai Namco Entertainment video games still manage to cater to them all.
Bandai Namco Entertainment Games and Game Publishing Strategy
Publishing for Indies and Third Parties
In addition to developing their own IPs, Bandai Namco Entertainment America also supports external studios. For example, this includes:
- Publishing Little Nightmares for Tarsier Studios
- Partnering with Dontnod on Twin Mirror
These efforts show their flexibility and vision as a modern game publisher.
Digital vs. Physical Distribution Trends
Digital has become the dominant format, especially after the pandemic. However, Bandai Namco Entertainment Game still cater to physical collectors with steelbooks, artbooks, and deluxe editions.
Because of this hybrid approach, they continue to serve both modern and nostalgic audiences.
Conclusion: Why Bandai Namco Games Still Matter
In conclusion, Bandai Namco Entertainment Game offer something for everyone — whether you enjoy fighting, storytelling, action, or anime crossovers. Their titles don’t just entertain. Instead, they shape trends, influence competitors, and inspire game developers around the world.
From legendary arcade games to next-gen releases, their influence on the gaming industry is undeniable. So if you’re looking to explore meaningful video game genres or analyze the strategies of leading Game Publishers, their catalog is the perfect starting point.
Explore their full Bandai Namco Entertainment Game list today — and rediscover what makes them a giant in the world of game publishing.