Ignition Entertainment is forging even closer links with the Japanese video game industry as it announces a dedicated office based in the prestigious Yebisu Garden Palace Tower, located in the Shibuya district of Tokyo.

Kaz Takeshita joins as general manager of Ignition Japan, with the remit of dealing closely with affiliate SNK, as well as scouring the Japanese market for the highest quality video games to be exported to Europe and America.

Mr. Takeshita boasts significant experience in the video game industry, having worked in varying capacities at SNK Corporation, Sammy Corporation and Acclaim Entertainment. He joins Ignition Japan with immediate effect.

“It’s been Ignition Entertainment intention all along to establish a presence in Japan, the spiritual home of video games,” says Greg Baverstock, Marketing & Acquisitions Director, Ignition Entertainment. “Mr Takeshita’s experience and passion for the industry offers us considerable opportunities and we’re delighted to welcome him on board.”

“Ignition Entertainment is a European company with a Japanese philosophy,” adds Mr Takeshita. “It is very much focussed on publishing the best games for the best price, making it a label that gamers love and trust.”

Ignition Entertainment snapped up the rights to publish SNK’s range of console titles throughout Europe. In addition, the firm is bringing its own range of home-grown titles to market alongside other independently developed games.