Banpresto was originally a separate company that became well-known for producing prize toys for arcades, amusement parks, and for being a publisher of video and arcade games. Their product line extensively covered various anime, manga, and video game franchises, offering a wide range of collectibles, including figures, plush toys, and more. These items were often available as prizes in claw machines and other arcade games in Japan, making them a coveted collectible due to their unique designs and limited availability.
Over the years, Banpresto became particularly famous for its high-quality anime figures from popular series like "Dragon Ball," "One Piece," "Naruto," and many others. Their figures are well-regarded for capturing the likeness and spirit of the characters, often being released under specific collection names, such as the Ichiban Kuji, Grandista, and Master Stars Piece lines.
In 2006, Banpresto became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bandai Namco Holdings, a larger conglomerate known for its vast portfolio of entertainment products, including video games, toys, and amusement facilities. Following this acquisition, Banpresto continued to operate under its brand, focusing on its core business of prize toys and related merchandise.
However, in 2019, Banpresto's operations were absorbed and rebranded under Bandai Spirits, a subsidiary of Bandai Namco that focuses on high-quality collectibles and model kits aimed at a more mature audience. This move consolidated Bandai Namco's production and distribution of toys and collectibles, streamlining their offerings under a single entity known for premium products. Despite the rebranding and operational shift, the spirit of Banpresto's beloved figure lines continues within Bandai Spirits, maintaining the legacy and popularity of their anime and manga-related merchandise.
