June 28^th, 2005 (5:11pm) - Namco’s shareholders have given their approval to the proposed merger between Namco and Bandai, which will create one of the largest game and toy companies in the region.

Bandai’s investors had already given their approval earlier in the month, and with Namco’s shareholder’s apporval, the merger is clear to proceed later this year. Full details of how the companies will work together is expected to be announced in September.

For now, Namco bosses have moved to assure staff and shareholders that no layoffs will result from the deal, since there is no overlap in their business sectors to a major degree. Basically meaning that each company makes products in different areas, for the most part. Namco will continue to work mostly with internal studios, Bandai’s titles will be developed by third parties.