【Yutaka】Now Operating as Popy Co., Ltd.! Here Are the Video Games Released During Its Time as a Bandai Subsidiary, Yutaka!

Have you ever heard of “Popy Co., Ltd.,” which was once part of the Bandai Namco Group? Toy enthusiasts might recognize the name. Popy has a rich and passionate history, making it a lesser-known yet fascinating entity. Let's dive into the charm and characteristics of Popy.

“Popy Co., Ltd.” was a toy manufacturer that once thrived as part of the Bandai Namco Group. Its origins trace back to 1949, when it was founded as a company called “Shinsei Kogyo Co., Ltd.” In 1971, it became a subsidiary of Bandai and was rebranded as “Popy Co., Ltd.” Over time, it went through various transformations, becoming a key brand in Bandai's toy manufacturing.

When discussing Popy's history, one cannot overlook the multiple mergers it underwent. In 1983, it was merged into Bandai, continuing as the “Bandai Popy Division.” Later, in 1990, Osaka-based toy maker “Yutaka” merged with “Shinsei Kogyo,” eventually forming “Yutaka Co., Ltd.” In 2003, it once again took on the name “Popy Co., Ltd.” and moved forward as part of Bandai’s hobby division.

In this way, Popy has preserved its name in an ever-evolving industry. In 2003, Yutaka merged with B-CLUB, Bandai’s garage kit division, re-launching under the “Popy” name. This allowed it to expand beyond toy manufacturing and into entertainment, including running the “Bandai Museum.” Such diverse activities showcase Popy's capabilities.

In 2007, as part of Bandai Namco Group's business reorganization, “Popy” was absorbed into “Plex Co., Ltd.” While the company “Popy” was thus brought to a close, its name continues to be remembered in Bandai's history.

Popy was a company that continuously evolved within the dynamic toy industry. Behind it lay a strong commitment to bringing dreams and wonder to children. This spirit was inherited through its journey with Bandai, even as the brand's form changed over time. Today, that spirit lives on in the Bandai Namco Group’s Brand Toy Planning Department.

Popy's greatest appeal lies in its adaptability and passion for innovation. Despite going through mergers and brand changes, it has continued to pass on its toy manufacturing skills and expertise to the next generation. This is precisely what is needed to endure in the toy industry.

“Popy Co., Ltd.” is not merely a toy maker of the past; it is a company that has continued to create new value through its transformations. Today, its spirit still thrives as part of the Bandai Namco Group. For those passionate about toys, Popy's history is a symbol of aspiration and challenge.