Aiming Reports Lower Revenue as Inazuma Eleven Cross Helps Offset Declining Mobile RPG Performance

Japanese mobile game developer Aiming has reported declining revenue and operating profit for the first nine months of 2026, highlighting the financial challenges facing companies dependent on long-running live-service titles. Revenue fell approximately 11 percent compared with the previous year, while operating profit declined around 38 percent. The company attributed part of the pressure to reduced performance from established titles and the normalisation of revenue following anniversary-related events.

The recently launched Inazuma Eleven Cross contributed to the business but performed slightly below expectations. Looking ahead, Aiming expects to introduce a new title associated with the hololive franchise during the fourth quarter. The project, commonly referred to as Holojan, forms part of a broader development pipeline that includes several additional games. The company is attempting to improve profitability through operational adjustments and a more focused approach to development resources.

Japanese industry publication gamebiz also reported that Aiming's employee count had declined compared with the previous year as the company continued adjusting its operating structure. These developments illustrate a recurring challenge in mobile gaming: successful titles can generate substantial revenue for years, but anniversary campaigns, major character releases and other temporary events can create difficult comparisons between reporting periods.

Developers must continually invest in new content while controlling costs and preparing replacement products. Aiming's upcoming releases will therefore be important tests of its ability to diversify revenue beyond established games. Apparently the most dangerous enemy in mobile RPG development is not a final boss. It is the quarterly financial report.