Akaoni Studio

Akaoni Studio is an independent Spanish video-game developer and publisher founded in January 2009. Its work combines arcade-oriented game design with Japanese manga- and anime-inspired visual direction, creating action games that span console, mobile and PC platforms.

The studio is known for reviving and adapting the immediacy of classic gallery shooters in projects such as Zombie Panic in Wonderland. The original WiiWare release reached number one on Japan’s WiiWare sales charts through a partnership with Marvelous Entertainment, while Akaoni self-published the game in Europe and North America. The series later expanded through mobile editions and the enhanced Zombie Panic in Wonderland DX for Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo Switch and PC.

Development and publishing

Akaoni handles full-cycle game design and development, art and animation production, console porting, and digital publishing. Its capabilities include:

• Arcade action games and third-person rail or gallery shooters
• 2D and 3D action-platformers
• Japanese-inspired character art and visual direction
• Proprietary 3D-engine integration
• Touch- and motion-control implementation
• Multiplatform development for Nintendo consoles, mobile devices and PC

Its catalogue also includes the Nintendo DSiWare port of Animal Boxing and Zombie Panic in Wonderland Plus for iOS and Android. In September 2023, the studio released Enraged Red Ogre for Nintendo Switch, a 2D side-scrolling action-adventure drawing on Japanese folklore.

Independent game making

Founded by José Manuel Iñiguez after his experience studying and working in Japan’s game industry, Akaoni operates as a compact independent developer. Its projects have served players across Japanese, European and North American markets, with a focus on adapting distinctive arcade concepts to contemporary digital platforms.