Today, let's talk about IREM SOFTWARE ENGINEERING Co., Ltd.—a game company not flashy, but one with fascinating, and somewhat bittersweet charm the more you learn about it. Their story of persistently and passionately walking the “back roads” of the game industry is sure to leave a mark on your heart.

First, some basic info. IREM SOFTWARE ENGINEERING is a wholly owned subsidiary of display device maker EIZO Corporation, known for their game brand “IREM.” Their history goes way back to the Famicom era.

Famous titles include “R-TYPE”, “Spelunker”, and the unforgettable “Hammerin' Harry”. Just from this unique lineup, you can tell they’re not your average game company.

In fact, IREM once withdrew from game development in 1994. It was a time of rapid change in the home console market, and many titles like “Legend of Hero Tonma” went unreleased, swept away by industry trends.

But true to IREM's spirit, that wasn’t the end. A few years later, they made a comeback as a new company, IREM SOFTWARE ENGINEERING, inheriting past IPs and reentering the game industry. It was like a dramatic “restart” straight out of a story!

After their return, they once again took a unique path. Their online store “IREM Yokocho,” launched in 2006, attracted attention not just for its products but also for IREM’s signature humor-filled projects. It had that “silly but somehow serious” vibe that fans absolutely loved.

However, in 2011, the Great East Japan Earthquake brought major changes: game development was halted, “IREM Yokocho” shut down, and their PlayStation Home content scaled back. It was truly a turning point.

From then on, IREM shifted direction entirely—partnering with SANYO BUSSAN to focus on pachinko and slot machine development. While some gamers may feel sad about this, it was a choice made for the company’s survival—and it makes sense when seen that way.

Of course, even after that, they continued with the “PachiPara” series and participated in app development. Though no longer in the spotlight, their creative spirit remains alive and well.

In 2011, some of IREM’s developers went independent and founded the now-famed Granzella. Known for the “Disaster Report” series, this new company inherited IREM’s spirit. Its president, Takeshi Nagura, once headed “IREM Yokocho.” That playful spirit continues to thrive in their new venture.

While IREM may not be known for blockbuster titles or flashy marketing, their games hold a memorable charm. Quirky humor, poignant soundtracks, and unforgettable characters—anyone who’s played their games has surely been captivated by their unique flavor.

It’s proof of their uncompromising craftsmanship. Though their path hasn’t always been glamorous, IREM has poured genuine passion into their games—and that’s exactly why we want to keep quietly cheering them on.