Taito

Taito is a Japanese company best known for its pioneering role in the video game industry, producing some of the most iconic arcade games in history. Founded in 1953 by Michael Kogan, a Ukrainian businessman who moved to Japan, Taito started out importing and distributing vending machines before moving into the arcade and video game sector in the 1970s. This shift led to the creation of games that would become timeless classics, including Space Invaders in 1978, a game that helped launch the "golden age" of arcade gaming.

Space Invaders was a monumental success, sparking global interest in arcade games and becoming an influential milestone that inspired countless game developers. Following this success, Taito developed a variety of beloved games, including Bubble Bobble, Elevator Action, Arkanoid, and Puzzle Bobble. Each of these games showcased Taito's talent for creating simple yet addictive gameplay mechanics combined with memorable characters and designs that appealed to a broad audience.

As a company, Taito has been recognized for its creativity and risk-taking, often experimenting with new gameplay concepts and artistic styles that set its titles apart from others in the market. In 2005, Taito was acquired by Square Enix, a move that allowed it to continue developing games and maintain its presence in the gaming world while drawing from the resources and expertise of a larger parent company.