【PSikyo】A Former Game Developer! What Kind of Company Was Saikyo, a Star in the Arcade Industry?

“Psikyo” is a name that many gaming enthusiasts might have heard of at least once.It was a Japanese game developer that supported the golden age of arcade gaming from the 1990s to 2000s.Its name is particularly revered among shooting game (STG) fans, and its background and appeal run deep.This time, we'll shed light on Psikyo's history and unique features to convey its charm.

Psikyo's story begins in 1992, when the development team behind “Sonic Wings” split from Video System.The company started as “Saikyo Art Kyoto Co., Ltd.” based in Kyoto, and changed its name to “Psikyo Co., Ltd.” just three years later.The English spelling “Psikyo” became one of the reasons it gained popularity among international fans.

When it comes to Psikyo, STG is the standout genre. It's an indispensable name in discussions of this category.Their STG titles featured short playtimes and beginner-friendly difficulty at the early stages, making them accessible to newcomers. This design also provided high profitability for arcade operators, making it appealing not only to players but also to operators.

And then, there was the “Psikyo Bullet”—high-speed, linear projectile patterns! This distinguished itself from traditional bullet hell STGs that filled the screen with slow projectiles, creating unique thrills that tested instant decision-making and reflexes. This feature captivated the hearts of many STG fans.

Beyond shooting games, Psikyo also ventured into genres like strip mahjong, fighting games, and puzzle games. Strip mahjong, in particular, was a staple of arcades, and Psikyo added its own brand of entertainment to delight many fans. Their approach of continually challenging various genres reflects their craftsman-like dedication.

However, as the 2000s began, the tides started to shift.The boom in bullet hell STGs and the rise of new genres like rhythm games and competitive action games created a tough situation for Psikyo.It became difficult to satisfy their traditional fan base, and they faced challenges on the management side as well.Moreover, the failure of their amusement business cast a shadow, and in 2002, they closed their chapter by merging with X-Nauts.

After the merger, the name Psikyo seemed to disappear, but its spirit lived on. Today, the Psikyo brand is managed by City Connection through Zerodiv, and many of their classic titles have been re-released, gaining attention once again. Thanks to this, a new generation of gamers can experience the charm of Psikyo.

Psikyo's contributions to the arcade gaming world were not limited to just the “fun of games.” Their attitude of continuing new challenges amidst changing times and the creative spirit embodied in the “Psikyo Bullet” still influence many game creators today.

Hearing the name Psikyo evokes a sense of nostalgia and a deep respect for their craftsman-like game development. If you've never played a Psikyo game, please take a step into their world. You'll surely find something new!

In the history of gaming, Psikyo stands as a small yet mighty giant. We hope that its name will continue to be etched into the memories of gaming fans.