The gaming industry is home to countless companies, but have you ever heard of MileStone Inc.? This company once made a name for itself, only to disappear from the scene. However, its history is nothing short of unique. Today, let's take a deep dive into the charm and characteristics of MileStone.

MileStone was a game company once based in Hamamatsucho, Minato City, Tokyo. Its founder, Takushi Kimura, was a former sales department employee at Compile, the company behind the legendary puzzle game Puyo Puyo. Many of MileStone's developers were also former Compile staff, which meant that the company’s games carried a strong influence from Compile’s DNA. Their titles were known for their unique game design and mechanics.

In its early years, MileStone mainly worked as a subcontractor, developing games for other companies. However, things changed in 2004 when they finally began developing and releasing their own original titles. They introduced unique shooting games, particularly for arcades, which received high praise from hardcore gamers.

Despite being a game development company, MileStone made an unexpected move in 2008 by entering the bioethanol business. They established a related company, MS Bio Energy Inc., and expanded into the energy sector. The reason behind this sudden shift remains a mystery, but it may symbolize MileStone’s spirit of innovation and exploration.

However, from 2012 onward, dark clouds loomed over MileStone. A mass exodus of staff, the disappearance of their official website, the arrest of their representative, and the discontinuation of their game titles all led to a dramatic downfall. Eventually, the company ceased all activities, and its fate remains unclear.

After MileStone disappeared from the public eye, its legacy lived on through other companies. Starting in 2013, some former staff joined Klon Co., Ltd., which took over the development of MileStone's titles. However, Klon ceased developing these games in November 2014 and eventually went dormant as a company. Today, the development and release of shooting games have been passed on to RS34 Co., Ltd......

MileStone’s history was short but filled with turbulence. However, its unique games remain in the memories of fans. By inheriting Compile’s DNA and creating shooting games with a distinct worldview, MileStone left behind a legacy that will never fade.

In the gaming industry, it’s not uncommon for once-famous companies to disappear. However, as seen with MileStone, there are cases where their creations are carried on by future developers. If you ever get the chance, why not try playing MileStone’s games and experience their dedication and passion firsthand?