As a long-standing powerhouse of the global video game industry, Japan is home to many of the world’s most iconic game developers. From companies that continue to release cutting-edge titles to those that build on the legacy of legendary franchises, the country’s gaming giants remain highly influential. A recent survey reveals that two companies — Bandai Namco and, perhaps surprisingly, Konami — are among the most sought-after employers for new graduates in the country.
As reported by Automaton, this insight comes from a comprehensive survey conducted by The Nikkei in collaboration with MyNavi. The survey polled 25,000 liberal arts students and 10,000 science students across Japan between October 2024 and March 2025. The goal was to determine which companies Japanese graduates most aspire to work for.
In the realm of video game companies, Bandai Namco continues to be a favourite, especially among liberal arts students, securing the ninth position overall. However, Konami had the most outstanding result this year. More known for its withdrawal from mainstream gaming to focus on its pachinko machine business before reverting its decision, the company has made a remarkable comeback, climbing from the 31st position last year to 10th this year.
Konami’s rise into the top tier of desirable employers is attributed to its renewed internal strategy. The company has consistently raised entry-level salaries and emphasised the value of human talent as a core pillar of its business structure. These moves have resonated positively with prospective employees, painting the company as a supportive and progressive workplace.
Meanwhile, in the same survey, science students continued to favour Sony as their top choice for employment, maintaining its popularity from the previous year. Konami’s leap into the top 10 reflects not only its shifting internal policies but also the evolving landscape of Japan’s gaming industry, where legacy and innovation go hand-in-hand to attract the next generation of talent.
