# Nihon Falcom

> Japanese video game developer

**Wikidata**: [Q1142226](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1142226)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nihon_Falcom)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/nihon-falcom

## Summary
Nihon Falcom (日本ファルコム) is a Japanese video game developer founded in 1981, specializing in creating role-playing games (RPGs) and other interactive experiences. The company is known for iconic franchises like *Ys* and *The Legend of Heroes*, and it operates as a public company listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

## Key Facts
- Founded in 1981 by Masayuki Katō.
- Headquartered in Tachikawa, Japan.
- Operates as a public company (kabushiki gaisha) listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE: 3723).
- Notable works include *Ys* (1987), *The Legend of Heroes* (1989), and *Trails* (2004).
- Founded by Masayuki Katō and currently led by chairperson Toshihiro Kondō.
- Produces video games for personal use, primarily in the RPG genre.
- Has a strong online presence with verified accounts on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
- Notable social media followers: 55,900 (YouTube, as of 2025-08-17).

## FAQs
### Q: What kind of games does Nihon Falcom develop?
A: Nihon Falcom specializes in role-playing games (RPGs), including franchises like *Ys* and *The Legend of Heroes*.

### Q: Is Nihon Falcom a public company?
A: Yes, Nihon Falcom is a public company (kabushiki gaisha) listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange under the ticker 3723.

### Q: Who founded Nihon Falcom?
A: Nihon Falcom was founded by Masayuki Katō in 1981.

### Q: What are some of Nihon Falcom’s most famous games?
A: Some of Nihon Falcom’s most famous games include *Ys* (1987), *The Legend of Heroes* (1989), and *Trails* (2004).

### Q: Where is Nihon Falcom headquartered?
A: Nihon Falcom is headquartered in Tachikawa, Japan.

## Why It Matters
Nihon Falcom has played a significant role in the Japanese video game industry, particularly in the RPG genre. The company’s early works, such as *Ys* and *The Legend of Heroes*, have become iconic, influencing later developers and shaping the narrative-driven RPG experience. As a public company, Nihon Falcom also contributes to Japan’s gaming economy, providing employment and innovation in the field. Its long-standing presence and notable franchises make it a key player in the industry, ensuring its continued relevance in gaming culture.

## Notable For
- Pioneering the *Ys* series, one of the longest-running RPG franchises.
- Creating the *The Legend of Heroes* series, known for its deep storytelling and strategic gameplay.
- Operating as a public company, contributing to Japan’s gaming economy.
- Producing visually rich and narratively complex RPGs.
- Maintaining a strong online presence with verified social media accounts.

## Body
### Founding and Early Years
Nihon Falcom was established in 1981 by Masayuki Katō, initially focusing on developing video games for personal computers. The company quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach to RPGs, particularly in the *Ys* series, which debuted in 1987. These early games laid the foundation for Falcom’s reputation as a developer of deep, story-driven RPGs.

### Notable Franchises
The *Ys* series, starting with *Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished* (1987), became one of the most enduring RPG franchises, known for its atmospheric storytelling and challenging gameplay. Similarly, *The Legend of Heroes* (1989) introduced a series that emphasized tactical combat and rich lore, further cementing Falcom’s place in the industry.

### Corporate Structure
As a public company, Nihon Falcom is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE: 3723). This status allows the company to raise capital and invest in larger projects, such as the *Trails* series, which began in 2004. The company’s legal form is a kabushiki gaisha (publicly traded corporation), reflecting its status as a major player in the gaming industry.

### Online Presence
Nihon Falcom maintains an active online presence through verified accounts on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. The company’s YouTube channel, *NihonFalcomSince1981*, has gained over 55,900 subscribers, indicating a strong following among fans and industry professionals.

### Legacy and Influence
Nihon Falcom’s contributions to the RPG genre have left a lasting impact on the industry. Its games are celebrated for their intricate world-building, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics. The company continues to produce high-quality RPGs, ensuring its place as a respected developer in the gaming world.

## References

1. LastDodo
2. Virtual International Authority File
3. BnF authorities
4. Google Knowledge Graph
5. MusicBrainz
6. [Source](https://www.tech-gaming.com/nihon-falcom/)
7. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
8. YouTube API
9. VideoGameGeek