Namco

Japan · Founded 1955 · Developer / Publisher / Arcade Hardware Manufacturer

Namco created Pac-Man, Galaga, and Dig Dug — three of the most recognised games in history — and pioneered the arcade hardware business before expanding into home console publishing.

Namco was founded in 1955 as Nakamura Manufacturing Company, initially operating two mechanical rocking horse rides on the roof of a Yokohama department store. By the late 1970s, the company had become a major arcade machine manufacturer and operator. The acquisition of Atari's Japanese operations in 1974 gave Namco access to Atari's hardware designs and distribution network, accelerating its growth. Toru Iwatani's Pac-Man (1980) became the highest-grossing arcade game of all time and the most recognisable video game character in the world, turning Namco into a global brand. Galaga (1981), Dig Dug (1982), and Pole Position (1982) each defined their respective genres. In the 3D era, Namco's Ridge Racer launched alongside the PlayStation and Tekken became one of the most successful 3D fighting game franchises. Namco merged with Bandai in 2006 to form Bandai Namco.