Twin Engine and Bandai Form Strategic IP Partnership

On August 5, Japanese animation producer Twin Engine and toy and character‑IP company Bandai announced a strategic partnership to co‑create new intellectual property. The collaboration will cover the entire lifecycle from original manga development through animation production to licensing and merchandise, with both firms pooling their expertise and resources.

The joint project is backed by a planned investment of up to ¥40 billion, intended to accelerate the creation and long‑term nurturing of IP that can be expanded across media and consumer products worldwide. Twin Engine will handle concept, production and distribution of the animation, while Bandai will apply its extensive experience in character licensing, toy manufacturing, and related merchandise.

Both companies highlighted the growing global demand for manga‑originated IP that can be adapted into films, series and consumer goods, and said the partnership aims to streamline development and ensure consistent growth strategies for each title. Detailed plans for the first titles are expected to be disclosed in the coming weeks.