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LIGHTSPEED STUDIOS Forges Ahead with Key Game Developments and Expands Creative Vision

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SAN FRANCISCO, March 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — LIGHTSPEED STUDIOS, a leading global game developer, at GDC 2025 today is revealing the “Original IP Initiative,” a new strategic focus centered on developing original game titles. As part of this strategic shift, Vice President of LIGHTSPEED STUDIOS and General Manager of LightSpeed LA, Steve C. Martin will unveil strategies from Lightspeed L.A., the studio developing the highly anticipated AAA open-world action game, Last Sentinel, while in parallel legendary game developer and head of LightSpeed Japan Studio, Hideaki Itsuno, will reveal that he has begun leading the early development of a new, unnamed original AAA action game title. Both are projects that mark LIGHTSPEED STUDIOS’ commitment to creating original game titles. 

LIGHTSPEED STUDIOS Commits to Development of Original Game IP

Recognizing that innovation drives player engagement, LIGHTSPEED STUDIOS is sharpening its approach and announcing its commitment to empowering a network of self-sustained, independently run regional studios that will be focused entirely on developing original, cross platform game titles.

LIGHTSPEED STUDIOS, best known for its work with established game title PUBG MOBILE (co-developed with KRAFTON, Inc.), is strategically expanding and building state-of-the-art development facilities around the world to support original game development.

This strategy enables its development studios, which notably includes LightSpeed L.A., the newly established LightSpeed Japan Studio, along with teams across the world, a direct pipeline to LIGHTSPEED STUDIOS’ centralized technical resources. This consists of LIGHTSPEED STUDIOS’ latest R&D breakthroughs, which push the boundaries of graphics and performance to enhance in-game realism, as showcased in workshops during GDC 2025.

LIGHTSPEED STUDIOS Sets the Stage for a New Era for Japan Studio

Building on this approach, legendary game director and head of LightSpeed Japan Studio, Hideaki Itsuno, is revealing at GDC 2025 that he’s entering the arena and embarked on the early stages of bringing his own visionary AAA game title to life. Drawing on his extensive experience directing games and building incredible teams at Capcom that drove the remarkable successes of Devil May Cry, the Dragon’s Dogma series, Capcom VS. SNK, and many more iconic game titles, Hideaki is ready to apply the same principles of creative freedom, efficiency, and humility to assemble an outstanding team and create something truly groundbreaking.

“We’re building a creative environment that combines diverse cultural perspectives with cutting-edge technology,” said Hideaki Itsuno, General Manager of LightSpeed Japan Studio. “Our focus is on developing gameplay elements that offer players entirely new experiences – the kind of innovations that make players say I’ve never seen that in a game before.”

Leveraging Global Talent and Nurturing Creative Freedom

Additionally, to foster fresh perspectives in original game development, LIGHTSPEED STUDIOS is adopting a model that enables each studio to shape its own culture, advocating for original thinking within teams. Bringing to the table Eastern and Western game philosophies, LIGHTSPEED STUDIOS is positioned to encourage regional teams to exchange ideas, blend cultural influences, and unite under a shared vision – creating truly global gaming experiences.

A standout example of this approach is being led by the VP of LIGHTSPEED STUDIOS, Steve C. Martin, known for his commitment to culture-building, and development-based scheduling. Focused on bringing his original AAA open world action title, Last Sentinel, to life, Steve has assembled a world-class, global team. Combing a dream team of talent from prestigious studios like Rockstar Games, Naughty Dog, Obsidian Entertainment, Sony Santa Monica, Meta, and EA Games, LightSpeed L.A. has fostered not only a culture of creative freedom but ensures product efficiency, thanks to Steve’s emphasis on humility and a willingness to embrace constructive feedback.

“Every developer’s true ambition lies in developing original games. The creative freedom of creating your own lore from scratch, building a compelling narratives and characters, and all the ideation and inspiration that explodes from this, this is the dream of ant creative, and that’s why LIGHTSPEED STUDIOS is the place to be,” said Steve C. Martin, who brings his extensive experience from Rockstar Games where he contributed to acclaimed titles including Red Dead Redemption I and II and Grand Theft Auto V.”

About LIGHTSPEED STUDIOS

LIGHTSPEED STUDIOS is a leading global game developer with teams across China, United States, Singapore, Canada, United Kingdom, France, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, and United Arab Emirates. LIGHTSPEED STUDIOS has created over 50 games across multiple platforms and genres for over 4 billion registered users. It is the co-developer of worldwide hit PUBG MOBILE (co-developed with KRAFTON, Inc.) and the developer of the upcoming AAA open-world game, Last Sentinel.

LIGHTSPEED STUDIOS is made up of passionate players who advance the art & science of game development through great stories, great gameplay, and advanced technology. We are focused on bringing next generation experiences to gamers who want to enjoy them anywhere, anytime, across multiple genres and devices.

More information about LIGHTSPEED STUDIOS please visit www.lightspeed-studios.com, and follow us on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.

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Qn-SOLAR Announces Perovskite Breakthrough to Illuminate “Earth Hour” with Clean Energy

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SHANGHAI, March 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Qn-SOLAR, a rising star in clean energy solutions, has announced a major breakthrough in perovskite solar technology, aligning with the Earth Hour 2025 theme, “Give an Hour for Earth Doing Something You Love.” The company pledged to accelerate the commercialization of perovskite solar cells, driving the next wave of photovoltaic innovation. To mark the occasion, Qn-SOLAR hosted an Earth Hour campaign, showcasing how perovskite technology can provide green power without relying on the traditional grid.

In 2024, Qn-SOLAR achieved remarkable growth, increasing its global shipments from 6GW to 8GW, further expanding its presence in key markets across Europe and Latin America, while accelerating its entry into emerging markets. The company is now actively investing in perovskite solar technology, which is widely regarded as the next-generation photovoltaic solution due to its low material cost (1/20 of silicon), superior low-light performance, and customizable design. Qn-SOLAR aims to integrate this cutting-edge technology into high-end solar applications.

Breakthroughs in Perovskite Technology

Qn-SOLAR has made significant strides in advancing perovskite solar cells, achieving key milestones:

Record Efficiency Gains: Power conversion efficiency has surged from 3.8% to 27%, matching the highest laboratory efficiency of monocrystalline silicon cells (26.8%).

Scalability: Small-scale cells (1cm²) now exceed 20% efficiency, while larger cells (15×15 cm²) achieve 16% efficiency.

Innovative Features: Breakthroughs include high transparency and superior low-light response, marking a first in China.

Customization: The technology allows for customizable colors, making it ideal for applications such as Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV), wearables, and portable devices.

From R&D to Commercialization

Qn-SOLAR is transitioning from research to large-scale production:

Current Status: The company operates a pilot-scale laboratory line, with some projects already in real-world applications.

Production Roadmap: A 20MW production line is set for launch in the second half of 2025, followed by a 50MW facility in 2026, paving the way for full commercialization.

Expert Team & Facilities: The company’s 1,000m² research center houses one of the earliest perovskite R&D teams in the industry, ensuring continuous innovation and product optimization.

“Our advancements in perovskite technology will redefine the future of solar energy,” said Stephen Cai, Chairman of Qn-SOLAR. “We are committed to accelerating the commercialization of this revolutionary technology, making clean energy more efficient, accessible, and sustainable.”

Engaging the Public with Real Initiatives

To celebrate Earth Hour 2025, Qn-SOLAR launched an online campaign encouraging individuals to share their experiences using clean energy with the hashtag #BiggestHourForEarth. The company also reinforced its commitment to sustainability through everyday operations:

Low-Carbon Factories: Qn-SOLAR facilities rely on solar power for self-consumption, and office spaces are transitioning to paperless operations.

Employee Engagement: The company promotes environmental responsibility with activities like “plogging” (jogging while picking up litter) and encourages staff to turn off lights and spread awareness online.

A More Resilient Future Powered by Innovation

Looking ahead, Qn-SOLAR remains dedicated to harnessing technology to create a more sustainable planet. By leveraging clean energy solutions, the company is committed to reducing carbon footprints, advancing sustainable practices, and building a more sustainable and resilient future for all.

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Netflix Worldwide Exclusive Streaming Anime”The Summer Hikaru Died” Reveals Main Trailer and New Cast Members, Yumiri Hanamori, Wakana Kowaka, and Chikahiro Kobayashi

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-Unveils the Ending Theme Song ” Anata wa Kaibutsu(you are my monster)” performed by TOOBOE-

TOKYO, March 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CyberAgent, Inc. today has revealed the latest information at the special stage event for the TV anime “The Summer Hikaru Died” held today at AnimeJapan 2025, including the main trailer and additional cast announcements.

“The Summer Hikaru Died” is a hit horror manga series about an ordinary high school boy, Yoshiki, who experiences various mysterious incidents in his life with Hikaru, a mysterious being who imitates his best friend Hikaru Indou. The story of “whatever it is” and the boy’s madness has garnered significant attention, making it a must-see anime film.

Following the announcement of the anime adaptation in May 2024, there is considerable anticipation among fans in Japan and worldwide.

The animation will be directed by Ryohei Takeshita known as the director of “Jellyfish Can’t Swim in the Night” and CygamesPictures will be handling the animation production for the series.

In addition to the previously announced cast members Chiaki Kobayashi and Shuichiro Umeda, the new cast members Yumiri Hanamori, Wakana Kowaka, and Chikahiro Kobayashi made a surprise appearance on “The Summer Hikaru Died” special stage held today at AnimeJapan 2025. Furthermore, the main trailer, featuring the ending theme song “Anata wa Kaibutsu(you are my monster)” performed by TOOBOE was unveiled for the first time.

Comments from the new casts and the production staff who are responsible for the character designs have also been revealed.

Official website:https://hikanatsu-anime.com/
The main trailer:https://www.youtube.com/@hikaru_anime_en

The Main Promotional Video Revealed!

The main trailer for “The Summer Hikaru Died” has been released.

In this video, you can enjoy a sneak peek of the ending theme song “Anata wa Kaibutsu(you are my monster)” performed by TOOBOE, which is being revealed for the first time. Please look forward to the chilling blend of slice of life and the supernatural that defines this work.

New Cast Comments Arrived!

Yumiri Hanamori (Asako Yamagishi)

I’m Yumiri Hanamori, who will be playing the role of Asako Yamagishi in “The Summer Hikaru Died”.

The first time I read this work, I was greatly shocked that the story begins from the point where it didn’t make it in time.

In a place that shouldn’t have existed.

What if “something” very close to what didn’t make it appears in front of us?

What choice would we choose?

What will be awaiting them at the end of their summer?

I will do my best to play the role so that you can feel the atmosphere that sticks to your skin.

Thank you very much.

Wakana Kowaka (Rie Kurebayashi)

I’m Wakana Kowaka, who will be playing the role of Rie Kurebayashi.

I’m looking forward to seeing how this work, which is filled with various emotions, how it will be visualized.

And the Mie dialect! We are all working so hard to record it!

I want to do my best to play Rie Kurebayashi, who is close to Yoshiki and Hikaru and has kindness in her sternness.

Chikahiro Kobayashi (Tanaka)

When I read the original story, my heart was firmly grasped from the beginning!

The scene of “Summer” that everyone feels nostalgic for is mixed with the fear and wonder of not knowing what is happening.

It’s really interesting.

I’m very happy to be able to mix in with the atmosphere of this work…!

Let’s watch it together when summer comes!

Additional character information released!!

Asako Yamagishi (voiced by Yumiri Hanamori)

A classmate of Yoshiki. Since childhood, she has been able to “hear” things that ordinary people cannot. She is tall, lively, and intelligent.

Rie Kurebayashi (voiced by Wakana Kowaka)

A housewife who can “see” things that ordinary people cannot. She worries about Yoshiki, who is with a dangerous and terrifying presence, and warns him to stay away.

Tanaka (voiced by Chikahiro Kobayashi)

A man who seems to be investigating something for a certain company. He is always carefree and elusive. He has a hamster as his partner.

The ending theme song features the currently trending artist, TOOBOE!

Theme Song for the Ending

“Anata wa Kaibutsu(you are my monster)” by TOOBOE

Lyrics, Composition, and Arrangement by TOOBOE

Release: Summer 2025

TOOBOE( Ending theme song artist)

Hello, I’m TOOBOE, and I will be in charge of the ending theme song. In creating this piece, I delved deeply into the original story, contemplating how one might savor memories and promises upon realizing that the neighbor the one believed to be true isn’t actually who the one thought. The more I tried to understand Yoshiki’s feelings, the more pure, sorrowful, and cruel they became. The resulting song, “Anata wa Kaibutsu(you are my monster)” became a kind of forgiveness that I extended to the characters. I hope it can add a vibrant touch to this wonderful story. Thank you for your support.

TOOBOE Profile Information

A solo project led by the music creator “john,” TOOBOE is involved in a wide range of creative activities, including lyrics, composition, arrangement, singing, illustration, and video production. With a distinctive voice and catchy, addictive music, TOOBOE is a multi-artist who seamlessly traverses the modern music scene between the internet and J-POP. TOOBOE made a major debut with the release of the first single “SHINZOU(HEART)” in April 2022. The song “JOUZAI(TABLET),” released in November 2022, was featured as the ending theme for Episode 4 of the TV anime “Chainsaw Man.” Furthermore, the music video for “ITAINO ITAINO TONDEIKE” released in June 2024, has gained momentum worldwide, surpassing 20 million views on YouTube faster than ” SHINZOU(HEART)” and ” JOUZAI(TABLET),” both of which had already exceeded 20 million views.

Official Site: https://www.sonymusic.co.jp/artist/tooboe/  

X:(TOOBOE): https://twitter.com/casablancalanca?s=20&t=AuMjmQ4Tq4j0bIfSzh5hNA 

(Official): https://twitter.com/tooboeofficial 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_tooboe/ 

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/discover/jhon-tooboe?lang=ja-JP 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9rPALOT-ZVc7VEXATYSNCA 

Additional Staff Comments Arrived!

Cast

Yoshiki Tsujinaka: Chiaki Kobayashi

Hikaru: Shuichiro Umeda

Asako Yamagishi: Yumiri Hanamori

Rie Kurebayashi: Wakana Kowaka

Tanaka: Chikahiro Kobayashi

Staff:

Original Work: Mokumokuren (Serialized in KADOKAWA’s “YOUNG ACE UP”)

Director /Series Composition: Ryohei Takeshita

Character Design & Chief Animation Director: Yuichi Takahashi

DORODORO Animator: Masanobu Hiraoka

Prop Design: Ryunosuke Oji

Sub Character Design: Mai Watanabe, Hiroko Seigan, Shoko Nagasawa

Art Setting: Shuhei Tada, Takeshi Takahashi, Yohihiro Sono

Art Director: Kohei Honda

Color Design: Naomi Nakano

Assistant Color Design: Yuko Koshida

3D Supervisor: Yoshinori Nakano

Director of Photography: Tomohiro Maeda

2D Design: Yusuke Nagara, Yuri Tsue

Editing: Kashiko Kimura

Sound Direction: Koji Kasamatsu

Sound Production: dugout

Music: Taro Umebayashi

Ending Theme Song “Anata wa Kaibutsu(you are my monster)” by TOOBOE

Animation Production: CygamesPictures

Staff comments

Yuichi Takahashi (Character Designer & Chief Animation Director)

Hikaru and Yoshiki may appear simple at first glance, but the breath and body temperature emanating from inside the characters can be felt thanks to the overwhelming persuasiveness and descriptive power of the original work.

The heat oozing out of the characters, and the reconstruction of the original character modeling, which seems to depict that as well, was a challenge that had never been attempted before. We hope that we were able to reproduce the body temperature of the characters that we felt from the original work.

Masanobu Hiraoka (DORODORO Animator)

I am always thinking about how to express the unique and unsettling atmosphere of “The Summer Hikaru Died” in terms of the artwork.

In particular, the depiction of “DORODORO” with a heterogeneous presence is one of the important elements that accentuate the eeriness of this work.

The viscosity and weight of the movement, as well as the unpleasantness of the spread of the “DORODORO” were carefully considered in order to leave a strong impression on the audience.

We made sure that the disturbing nature of the original work and the horror that lurks within its beauty could be expressed in the images.

I hope you will enjoy the “distorted beauty” that only a film can capture.

Taro Umebayashi (Music)

I am very honored to be involved in Mokumokuren’s “The Summer Hikaru Died” which is loved by so many fans.

I am working on the music for the animation directed by Ryohei Takeshita so that I can contribute to the expression of the work in any way I can.

Follow “The Summer Hikaru Died” for the latest news and announcements:

Official website: https://hikanatsu-anime.com/ 

Official X : https://x.com/hikaru_anime_en

Netflix Title Page: https://www.netflix.com/title/81948057

About “The Summer Hikaru Died”

“The Summer Hikaru Died” is a hit horror manga series about an ordinary high school boy, Yoshiki, who experiences various mysterious incidents in his life with Hikaru, a mysterious being who imitates his best friend Hikaru Indou. The story of “whatever it is” and the boy’s madness has garnered significant attention, making it a must-see anime film.

Following the announcement of the anime adaptation in May 2024, there is considerable anticipation among fans in Japan and worldwide.

Introduction

In a certain village

Since their childhood, they have grown up together.

Yoshiki and Hikaru, childhood friends.

the sun shining down on them

the chirping sound of a cryptotympana facialis

Ice cream on the way home

Laughing over trivial things

One day in summer, no different from any other day

…… You’re not Hikaru after all, are you?

Half a year ago, Hikaru went missing in the mountains.

A week later, he came back on a whim.

The voice, the figure, the thing that looked like Hikaru

What was stirring inside…

“Hikaru is no longer with us. …… if that’s the case.”

Starting the days with “something” in the form of a friend,

The “same as usual” everyday life.

But at the same time…

Strange incidents begin to plague the village.

Falling into the unknown “something”

The curtain rises on a coming-of-age horror story.

Work Information

Original story: Based on the comic “The Summer Hikaru Died” by Mokumokuren, originally serialized in the YOUNG ACE UP published by KADOKAWA

Director/Series Composition : Ryohei Takeshita

Character Design/Chief Animation Director :Yuichi Takahashi

DORODORO Animator : Masanobu Hiraoka

Animation Production :CygamesPictures

Copyright :©Mokumokuren/KADOKAWA/The Summer Hikaru Died Partners

Copyrights must be indicated when posting or using the image materials.

Original work information

Title :”The Summer Hikaru Died”

Author :Mokumokuren

Previously published: Volumes 1-5 (Kadokawa Comics A)

Available on YenPress

https://yenpress.com/series/the-summer-hikaru-died

 

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SOURCE CyberAgent,Inc.

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Chengdu Unleashes Industry Opportunities at 2025 World Conference on Cultural Industry

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CHENGDU, China, March 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A report from National Business Daily:

Chengdu, a city celebrated for its deep cultural roots, showcased its growing prowess in creative industries at the 2025 World Conference on Cultural Industry, held March 21-22. Themed “Culture Leadership in Urban Vitality and Innovation”, the event attracted industry leaders, government officials, and creative professionals from around the world, highlighting Chengdu’s efforts to blend culture with cutting-edge technologies and innovation.

The two-day conference explored thriving creative industries such as gaming, animation, film, and design, providing a platform for collaboration through industry matchmaking, site visits, and cultural events. The opening ceremony featured speeches from international delegates, including a representative from South Yorkshire, U.K., alongside perspectives from Greater Manchester and Liverpool officials on urban creative strategies.

Industry experts offered detailed insights into trends driving digital creativity, while a signing ceremony cemented partnerships in various sectors of cultural industry. Local media group presented a series of local projects, underscoring the city’s contributions to innovation in digital media and storytelling.

During the conference, a standout moment came as the U.K. delegation toured two of Chengdu’s leading digital creative parks. Discussions with park managers and companies centered on product exports and potential cross-border collaborations. That evening, a Sino-U.K. cultural promotion dinner spotlighted opportunities in film, music, art, design, and sports, with several initial agreements taking shape during one-on-one talks.

On March 22, participants visited Chengdu’s iconic landmarks, experiencing the city’s rich heritage and vibrant creative spirit firsthand. The tours reinforced Chengdu’s appeal as a place where tradition meets modern innovation, leaving a strong impression on attendees.

The conference bolstered Chengdu’s connections with global creative industries, positioning it as an increasingly influential player in the international cultural and technological landscape while fueling its ongoing development ambitions.

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