Aquaplus Parent Company Nears Deal to Sell Key Subsidiary
Discover Aquaplus's latest in anime-inspired gaming: ToHeart remake, the new Utawarerumono installment, and exciting details about Project Kizuna.
AQUAPLUS Announces Major Changes and Exciting New Releases
Image via AQUAPLUS' Twitter
Major Company Restructuring
Pole to Win Holdings (PTW), the parent company of AQUAPLUS, has announced a significant shift in its business focus. As of Tuesday, PTW is withdrawing from the media and content industry, deciding to transfer all shares of its subsidiary, AQUAPLUS, to an outside company.
Why the Change?
PTW explained that the media and content industry has become increasingly competitive, requiring larger upfront investments to stay ahead. To adapt, PTW is moving away from direct involvement in media content.
What’s Next?
- Management buyout: Current management of HIKE, a company under PTW, will acquire AQUAPLUS.
- New entity: This will create HIKE Holdings, a spin-off focused on assets previously under PTW, except for AQUAPLUS.
- Ongoing partnerships: Despite the transfer, PTW plans to maintain a business partnership with both HIKE and AQUAPLUS and collaborate on mutual growth.
Exciting New Projects
Despite restructuring, AQUAPLUS is pushing forward with new releases:
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Remake of To Heart:
- The beloved 1997 visual novel/dating sim will be remade and launched in Japan for Nintendo Switch and PC via Steam this Thursday.
- Read more about the remake here.
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New Projects Announced:
- Project Kizuna: A new title set to be released in spring 2025.
- Utawarerumono Series: A new entry called "Utawarerumono: Shiro e no Michishirube" (The Guidepost to White) has been announced, along with the restart of the previously canceled Jasmine visual novel.
About To Heart
To Heart originally launched in 1997 for Windows, later ported to PlayStation in 1999. It is considered a classic in the visual novel/dating sim genre, inspiring an anime adaptation and multiple sequels.
Cultural Impact
- The character Multi is iconic among otaku, representing moe character design with her lively personality.
- Its influence is still felt today, especially in character design and storytelling.
Media Adaptations
- Anime adaptations include a 1999 TV series and a 2004 second season titled "To Heart - Remember my memories."
- The sequel, To Heart 2, released in 2004, spawned its own anime in 2005, along with numerous OVAs and spin-offs.
Summary
Despite corporate restructuring, AQUAPLUS remains committed to delivering engaging visual novels and anime projects, continuing its legacy while adapting to industry changes.
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