Bandai Namco's Bold Bet on Unknown 9's Immersive Transmedia Universe

The Unknown 9 series, developed by Reflector Entertainment, is set to revolutionize the concept of transmedia storytelling. This innovative approach weaves a complex narrative across nine different media formats, creating a rich and immersive universe that spans over a century. At the heart of this universe lies a group of immortals, two rival secret societies vying for their knowledge, and the mysterious Fold, a parallel dimension that grants select individuals extraordinary abilities in the physical world. The story unfolds through various media, including the upcoming action-adventure game Unknown 9: Awakening, novels, comics, and podcasts, each offering a unique perspective on the overarching narrative. According to Hervé Hoerdt, CEO of Reflector Entertainment and chief content officer at Bandai Namco Europe, the goal is to craft a 'full story world' that transcends individual media formats, inviting fans to explore the intricate lore and connections between each component. This ambitious project has been years in the making, with Reflector Entertainment dedicating small teams to each media type to ensure consistency and cohesion. The game, scheduled for release on consoles and PC, serves as the central pillar of the Unknown 9 universe, with the transmedia elements complementing and expanding the narrative. Hoerdt emphasizes that each piece of transmedia content is designed to stand alone while also contributing to the larger story, making it accessible to new fans and rewarding for those who delve deeper. The challenges of transmedia storytelling are significant, requiring substantial investment in talent, teams, and marketing. However, Hoerdt believes the payoff will be worth it, offering a more immersive and engaging experience for fans. With a focus on low-cost entry points, including free transmedia content, the aim is to attract a wide audience and foster a loyal community. The acquisition of Reflector Entertainment by Bandai Namco demonstrates the publisher's commitment to delivering the full Unknown 9 story, with plans for five games over the next decade. Hoerdt envisions a long-term vision for the IP, with the goal of engaging 3.5 million players and creating a sustainable, story-driven franchise. As Reflector Entertainment prepares to launch Unknown 9: Awakening, the company is poised to make a significant impact in the action-adventure market, a key segment for Bandai Namco's growth strategy.