In Contrast to Industry Trend, Atlus Announces Salary Increases

Recommended products

This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn a commission from purchases made through these links.

Amid widespread cost-cutting and layoffs in the video game industry, Atlus announced a general salary increase for all staff in a press release on Monday, May 16, 2022. The Japanese developer and publisher will raise the monthly starting salary for new graduates from 300,000 yen to 330,000 yen and reduce fixed overtime hours in contracts from 30 to 20 per month. Both full-time and contracted employees will also receive an approximate 15% pay raise. This decision shows that Atlus is aligned with other Japanese gaming studios increasing their staff’s base salaries. The initial salary for new graduates will rise from 300,000 yen (approximately R9,800) to 330,000 yen (approximately R10,850; R refers to South African Rand), and the annual salary increase for all employees will also be 15% higher. Atlus aims to offer stability and support to its employees during a period when many game companies are letting people go, prioritizing employee retention and happiness to maintain quality development.

Boost in Starting Salaries for New Graduates at Atlus Amid Company Wage Hikes and Overtime Changes

The change in fixed overtime policy will reduce bureaucracy, enabling the company to more easily request overtime hours without needing to adjust accounting at month-end. Atlus will cut fixed monthly overtime hours for all employees from 30 to 20, applying this change to both new and existing contracts. Known for games like Metaphor: Refantazio and the Persona franchise, Atlus has seen strong fiscal results in recent years. The company is using this success to provide real gains to the salaries of those who drive it, rather than only increasing bonuses for shareholders. Starting in April 2026, new graduates joining Atlus will see the increase in their monthly starting salary. Several other companies are also updating compensation. Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) will offer up to 480,000 yen to graduates with doctoral degrees starting in April 2026. Their new system includes 45 hours of fixed overtime and improved support for hybrid work and childcare. Bandai Namco is folding traditional winter bonuses directly into monthly paychecks to make starting salaries more appealing, and Konami has been increasing wages for four years to create a better working environment.

In Case You Missed It

If you’re looking for ways to upgrade your gaming experience, check out Carlos Mendoza’s recent reviews! First up is his exploration of Panasonic’s SoundSlayer GNW30 in ‘Tested Panasonic’s Gaming Neck Wear: A Good Alternative to Gaming Headsets?’ Tested Panasonic’s Gaming Neck Wear: A Good Alternative to Gaming Headsets?. Published on January 21, Carlos dives into this innovative audio neck warmer designed to alleviate ear strain while keeping you immersed in your favorite games. He examines its directional sound capabilities, low latency, and stable connectivity – making it a great alternative for those long gaming sessions!

Meanwhile, Carlos also celebrates the phenomenal success of Resident Evil Requiem in his March 16 post, ‘Resident Evil Requiem Surpasses 6 Million Sales, New Record for Series’ Resident Evil Requiem Surpasses 6 Million Sales, New Record for Series. In just over a month since its release, Requiem has shattered sales records, reaching 6 million units worldwide! If you’re eager to know how Capcom achieved this feat and what’s next for Resident Evil Requiem, Carlos’ insightful analysis is not to be missed!

Lastly, Bruno Pferd’s recent piece, “Nintendo Switch 2 Could Receive 2025 Game of the Year in 2026,” published on January 27th, offers an exciting glimpse into the world of upcoming Nintendo titles. The article explores the potential gaming bonanza awaiting Nintendo fans, with three major RPGs – including Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 and a port of Metaphor ReFantazio – potentially landing on the Switch 2 in the near future. Head over to Players for Life to check out this fascinating turn of events! Nintendo Switch 2 Could Receive 2025 Game of the Year in 2026