Hello! Today, we’re taking a closer look at the “CSK Research Institute,” a company that has played a significant role in the gaming industry, exploring its evolution and transformation while delving into its charm. Currently known as “SEGA-AM2,” this company holds a profound background and numerous challenges that cannot be fully captured by a mere name change. Let’s dive into its appeal!

In 1983, CSK Research Institute Co., Ltd. was established. From the beginning, the company focused on multimedia technology and software development, pursuing forward-looking research and challenges. Later, in 2000, it merged with SEGA's 2nd Software R&D Department, commonly known as “AM2 Lab.” At this point, CSK Research Institute was already at the forefront of game development.

The “AM2 Lab,” which merged with CSK Research Institute, was one of SEGA's most innovative game development divisions. Its flagship title is undoubtedly the “Virtua Fighter” series. This series pioneered the 3D fighting game genre and achieved tremendous success, leaving its mark on gaming history.

Through this merger, CSK Research Institute transformed from a mere research institution into a creative game development company responsible for major titles like “Virtua Fighter.” This background led to the realization of the name change to “SEGA-AM2” in 2001.

On August 1, 2001, CSK Research Institute changed its name to “SEGA-AM2.” This date coincided with the release of “Virtua Fighter 4,” making it a special occasion that brought a significant impact to the market along with the new company name.

The background to the name change included the establishment of a large-scale system with around 300 technicians, including freelance creators, as well as prospects for multi-platform expansion in the home gaming and middleware sectors. In particular, carrying the “SEGA” brand name undoubtedly enhanced its global recognition and reliability.

One of CSK Research Institute's representative works is the “Aero Dancing” series. This title, in the flight action genre, is known for its unique controls and realistic effects. Additionally, it focused on middleware research and development, promoting multi-platform compatibility beyond the barriers of home hardware.

In this way, its achievements in both game development and technology have supported the strength of the SEGA-AM2 brand.

In 2004, SEGA-AM2 was absorbed as a software development subsidiary of SEGA. As a result, game content development was taken over by SEGA itself, while multimedia technology research was transferred to “CRI Middleware.”

This reintegration was not merely an absorption but an optimization aimed at leveraging the strengths of each entity. To shape the future of gaming and technology, each continued to take on new challenges.

The greatest appeal of CSK Research Institute (now SEGA-AM2) lies in its flexibility to adapt to changing times and its fearless attitude toward innovation. Despite undergoing major changes such as integration with SEGA, spin-offs, and mergers, it has always stood at the forefront of entertainment.

Moreover, its fusion of research and development expertise with creative game production capabilities has led to the release of numerous masterpieces. From genre-defining games like “Virtua Fighter” to unique titles like “Aero Dancing,” it has continued to captivate fans with its diverse lineup.

The transition from CSK Research Institute to SEGA-AM2 represents a dramatic journey that can be described as the history of the gaming industry itself. The innovation and technical prowess developed along the way are still firmly inherited by the SEGA Group and CRI Middleware.

For gaming fans, knowing this history may deepen their affection for the titles they created. We can look forward to more creative works that carry the DNA of CSK Research Institute!