In a strategic move to supercharge its game development pipeline, Nintendo has announced plans to acquire 80% of the shares in Bandai Namco Studios Singapore Pte. Ltd. (BNSS), effective April 1, 2026. The remaining 20% will follow once operations stabilise, transforming BNSS into a wholly owned subsidiary renamed Nintendo Studios Singapore Pte. Ltd. This isn’t just a buyout—it’s the latest chapter in a deep, symbiotic relationship between two Japanese gaming titans that dates back decades.
BNSS: The Unsung Hero of Iconic Titles
Established in 2013, BNSS has carved a niche as a powerhouse in support development, contributing to blockbuster hits across platforms. For Nintendo fans, you can thank them for Splatoon 3‘s vibrant ink-soaked worlds, New Pokémon Snap‘s beautiful art style (especially compared to mainline Pokémon games), and support roles in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Beyond Nintendo, the studio’s fingerprints are on Bandai Namco staples like Tekken, Ace Combat, and Soulcalibur.
Nintendo & Bandai Namco — A Strengthened Bond
Nintendo’s bond with Bandai Namco is no flash in the pan. They hold a 1.76% stake in Bandai Namco as a whole. Historically, Bandai Namco developed Nintendo gems like Mario Superstar Baseball. Bandai Namco Studios has been the backbone of Super Smash Bros. across the last two generations.
Meanwhile, recent collabs include Pokkén Tournament, Taiko no Tatsujin on Switch, and support for Kirby Air Riders.
This acquisition deepens that synergy. By internalizing BNSS, Nintendo gains direct control over specialized talent amid CEO Shuntaro Furukawa’s warnings of extended Switch 2 development timelines. It’s a win-win: Bandai Namco sheds operational overhead while retaining ties, and Nintendo bolsters output for software development with a team that’s already well-versed.
Why It Matters — Powering Up for the Switch 2 Era
Nintendo‘s development strategy emphasizes “strengthening structure” through targeted acquisitions—like Next Level Games and Shiver Entertainment—focusing on trusted partners. BNSS fits perfectly: a proven ally in Asia, bolstering art and support for key Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 titles.
Nintendo wants to accelerate pipelines for high-profile sequels, remasters, and new IP as much as possible. As Furukawa eyes global expansion, including films, this powers up their in-house muscle.
Final Thoughts
This acquisition represents the natural evolution of Nintendo and Bandai Namco‘s decades-deep partnership, from collaborative hits to much-needed support. By absorbing BNSS, Nintendo fortifies its creative arsenal, ensuring smoother development for the Nintendo Switch 2 and beyond, while Bandai Namco benefits from streamlined operations and enduring synergies.
In an era of widespread industry consolidation, Nintendo‘s playbook stands out: small, trusted partners who can fit perfectly over big-name giants that need years to fully integrate. As usual, Nintendo is dancing to the beat of its own drum, and it hasn’t failed them yet. I don’t see this
