FromSoftware is a Japanese video game development company established in Tokyo. Originally a business software developer, they entered the video game industry with the release of King's Field for the PlayStation in 1994. The company is highly regarded for creating atmospheric and challenging action role-playing and mecha simulation games.
Following their initial release, the developer expanded their dark fantasy role-playing formula globally. The Japanese sequel
King's Field II (1995) was localized for North American audiences as
King's Field (1995), which also saw a notable release in a PlayStation
King's Field [Long Box] (1995) format. This was followed by
King's Field III (1996) in Japan, which arrived in Western markets as
King's Field 2 (1996). European players later received the series with the PAL release of
King's Field (1997).
Simultaneously, the studio diversified into the sci-fi genre, launching the customizable mecha combat title
Armored Core (1997). This release established a second foundational franchise for the company, characterized by complex customization and tactical gameplay. Over the subsequent decades, the developer built upon these early design philosophies of high difficulty, intricate level design, and environmental storytelling, eventually achieving massive mainstream success and critical acclaim with their modern action titles.