Smilegate Signs Licensing Agreement with Kodansha to Adapt Manga “Dead… 2025-10-10

■ Licensing agreement signed for the game adaptation of the original manga “Dead Account,” with plans for global publishing

■ A team roguelite game featuring character collection, currently in development for mobile and PC cross-platform play

Smilegate announced on Friday, October 10, that it has signed a licensing agreement with the Japanese publisher “Kodansha” for the game adaptation of the manga “Dead Account.” Through this agreement, Smilegate will serve as the global publisher for the upcoming title currently in development, “Dead Account: Two Blue Flames.”

From left: Ian Games Co-CEOs Cho Kyung-joo and Park Young-jae, Kodansha Manager Shin Furukawa, and Smilegate Holdings Megaport Division CEO Paek Young-hoon

“Dead Account: Two Blue Flames” is a team roguelite game that combines character collection and growth elements, faithfully reflecting the original manga’s story and world to capture its essence. The game is being developed by Ian Games, led by co-CEOs Park Young-jae and Cho Kyung-joo, whose team has extensive experience from projects such as “Seven Knights.” The title is currently being developed as a cross-platform game for mobile and STOVE (PC), with key content and information to be revealed in the coming months.

The original manga “Dead Account” began serialization in 2023 and is written by Shizumu Watanabe, known for works such as “Real Account” and “Trick Dedicated to the Witch.” The story follows protagonist Soji Enishiro, who transfers to Miden Academy to join forces with allies and combat ghosts resurrected through the digitalization of the deceased’s social media accounts. Reflecting modern social themes and featuring intense battle action, the series has garnered significant attention, especially among younger audiences. Furthermore, an anime adaptation is scheduled to air beginning January 2026 on TV Asahi’s nationwide 24-network block “IMAnimation” every Saturday at 11:30 PM, heightening expectations among fans of the original.

Oh Byung-jin, Head of Business at Smilegate, stated, “The game adaptation of ‘Dead Account’ goes beyond a simple IP expansion—it is expected to deliver a new and engaging experience for both fans of the original and gamers alike. Leveraging Smilegate’s publishing expertise, we aim to establish ‘Dead Account’ as a successful global title and continue to pursue active collaborations with various cultural content.”

Shin Furukawa, Manager at Kodansha, said, “‘Dead Account’ is a work that stands out with its powerful story and unique worldbuilding, setting it apart from traditional action manga. Through this game adaptation project, we hope to bring out the full charm of the original and provide fans with an entirely new experience.”