KADOKAWA announced plans to merge five of its anime production subsidiaries into a single new entity, Studio One Base. This consolidation is set to occur in November 2026 as part of a larger strategy to enhance production capabilities and creator environments.
KADOKAWA to Merge Five Anime Subsidiaries Into Studio One Base
KADOKAWA will merge five of its anime production subsidiaries into a new company called Studio One Base. The new studio is scheduled to be established in November 2026. The companies being consolidated are ENGI, Studio KADAN, Chiptune, Bellnox Films, and Raging Bull.
Despite this corporate integration, KADOKAWA has stated that the existing studio names ENGI, Studio KADAN, Chiptune, Bellnox Films, and Raging Bull will continue to be used. Each studio’s production lines, branding, and individual strengths are expected to be maintained under the new structure.
KADOKAWA acquired Chiptune in February 2025. The company’s stated aims for this acquisition included streamlining the anime production pipeline, improving quality control, and developing the next generation of compositing professionals.
Studio One Base’s New Headquarters in Sunshine City
Studio One Base will be headquartered at KADOKAWA’s new anime production hub located inside Sunshine City in Ikebukuro, Tokyo. This facility will also carry the Studio One Base name and is scheduled to open this month. The consolidation was initially announced in March, confirming the Fall 2026 opening of the new production base.
The new production base in Sunshine City is approximately 1,400 tsubo, which translates to roughly 4,600 square meters. This significant space is intended to house the consolidated anime operations.
KADOKAWA’s Strategic Goals for Studio One Base
KADOKAWA aims to strengthen its anime production structure and create a more sustainable working environment for creators through this merger. CEO Takeshi Natsuno commented earlier this year that there were too many anime and publishing companies, suggesting that unifying back offices would allow creators to focus more on their work.
The company plans to centralize management and back-office functions. This move is intended to improve employee benefits, working conditions, scheduling, and business administration. KADOKAWA believes this unified structure will enable creators to concentrate more directly on production, stabilize schedules, and enhance both quality and productivity.
Another goal is to integrate the diverse capabilities of the five studios, including animation, 3DCG, photography, and art production. Locating these teams at a single site is expected to foster greater knowledge sharing and personnel exchanges. It will also facilitate training for younger creators and make collaboration on larger projects more accessible.
KADOKAWA’s Existing Anime Holdings and Production Capacity
KADOKAWA stated that its group anime studios have produced a combined 48 works and 486 episodes since 2018. This figure excludes productions completed before the respective studios joined the group. The company currently operates approximately 30 anime production subsidiaries.
Besides the five studios merging into Studio One Base, KADOKAWA also owns the studio Doga Kobo, known for works like OSHI NO KO. Additionally, KADOKAWA holds a 31.8% stake in Kinema Citrus, which produced The Rising of the Shield Hero.
Studio One Base will be wholly owned by KADOKAWA and is expected to employ approximately 310 employees. Takeshi Kikuchi is slated to serve as president and representative director.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Studio One Base be established?
Studio One Base is scheduled to be established in November 2026. This date marks the official formation of the new merged entity consolidating five existing anime production subsidiaries.
Which studios are merging into Studio One Base?
The studios merging into Studio One Base are ENGI, Studio KADAN, Chiptune, Bellnox Films, and Raging Bull. These five companies will form the new unified studio structure.
Where will Studio One Base be located?
Studio One Base will be headquartered in KADOKAWA’s new anime production hub within Sunshine City in Ikebukuro, Tokyo. The facility itself will also be named Studio One Base.
What is KADOKAWA’s main objective with this merger?
KADOKAWA’s main objective is to strengthen its anime production structure, improve quality control, and create a more sustainable working environment for creators. They aim to streamline operations and foster greater collaboration.
