Sohei Niikawa, the mind behind the Disgaea JRPG franchise and a former 13-year CEO of Nippon Ichi Software, recently shared insights with Dengeki Online about his evolving role as a “shared producer” in the gaming world.
After stepping down from Nippon Ichi Software in 2022, Niikawa launched his own venture, SuperNiche. Through this company, he oversaw the development of the newly released musical 3D action JRPG Etrange Overlord. In addition to his game production efforts, Niikawa has long been active as a novelist under the pen name Roman Kitayama—a fact he only recently publicly acknowledged, though fans had long suspected his dual identity.
It turns out Niikawa’s post-NIS career has been even more multifaceted than previously known. He revealed to Dengeki Online that since becoming independent, he’s been functioning as a “shared producer” across both gaming and related sectors, charging rates comparable to what a new graduate entry-level employee might earn.
This work encompasses advisory services—such as guiding companies through performance improvements and organizational restructuring—as well as direct involvement in development projects, which explains the “shared producer” designation.
When asked about his decision to set such modest rates, Niikawa explained that he “enjoys being in the trenches” and helping projects reach completion. He wanted to make his services accessible to companies, so he priced his expertise at entry-level rates to reduce financial barriers. “I present the idea that people who see value in me as an individual can take the amount of my time they need, at whatever timing they want, and ‘share’ and make use of it,” he added. Currently, Niikawa works with at least nine different companies as either a consultant or external producer, balancing these commitments alongside his creative pursuits.
Dengeki Online reported that as of March 2026, Niikawa is providing business support to numerous organizations, including Nihon Falcom, G-MODE, CCMC, Game On, UUUM, Clover Labo, and others.
SuperNiche’s Etrange Overlord is available on PC (Steam), Nintendo Switch, and PS5/PS4.