#Japan #Iwakuni #Tokyo Game Show #Reborn Smith #IWAKUNI RUN

Reborn Smith Ventures into Gaming with IWAKUNI RUN

Reborn Smith, a company based in Tokyo's Meguro Ward, has taken a significant step in diversifying its business by venturing into the gaming industry. The firm is set to showcase its first game, IWAKUNI RUN, at the upcoming Tokyo Game Show 2026, which will take place from September 17 to September 21 at Makuhari Messe. Visitors can find the company at booth 08-N02 in Hall 8, where they will experience a unique blend of gaming and cultural heritage.

Background of Reborn Smith

The roots of Reborn Smith lie in the repair and restoration of leather goods, particularly luxury handbags. Over the years, the company has expanded its offerings, combining craftsmanship with advanced technologies such as 3D CAD and IT marketing. This innovative approach has allowed them to redefine their identity, moving beyond traditional leather repairs to character design and digital creative projects.

The company's connection with gaming began with IWAKUNI QUEST, a PC game developed by Zero Dives that featured original characters created by Reborn Smith. Through this collaboration, they introduced beloved characters like Mariho-chan and Towa-chan, promoting the cultural heritage of Iwakuni.

As they continued to design original characters for various municipalities across Japan, including Otokime-chan and Ibarki Douji-chan, Reborn Smith recognized the power of video games as a medium to connect people with local culture.

About IWAKUNI RUN

IWAKUNI RUN is a 16-bit endless runner game that immerses players in the scenic landscapes of Iwakuni, featuring iconic sites like the renowned Kintai Bridge. Players will navigate through four distinct seasons—spring, summer, autumn, and winter—while embodying the character Riboko, an aspiring craftsman armed with a magical hammer capable of repairing anything.

The narrative follows Riboko as she chases Shiro Shoumaru, a mythical beast embodying various blessings such as good fortune and health. This engaging pursuit reveals the beauty of Iwakuni through digital aesthetics, as players enjoy a simple yet captivating gaming experience.

Game Features:

• - Platform: Steam (Windows)
• - Release Date: October 15, 2026 (anticipated)
• - Languages: Japanese and English
• - Genre: Endless Runner / Action / Casual

The Exhibit at Tokyo Game Show 2026

Reborn Smith's booth will resemble a shrine, complete with a striking Torii gate where visitors can draw fortunes using a 125 cm tall “Omikuji” (fortune slip). Attendees will also have the opportunity to interact with a life-size cutout of Riboko and engage with the unique offerings of the game, focusing on photogenic moments rather than traditional gameplay demos.

Visitors can partake in promotional activities, such as becoming friends with the official LINE account to receive limited-edition stickers or posting photos on social media to win exclusive merchandise, including branded bags and badges featuring Riboko and Shiro Shoumaru.

CEO’s Vision

Kazuyuki Tamada, President and CEO of Reborn Smith, expressed that this foray into gaming represents more than just launching a new product. He emphasized that their goal is to introduce the vibrant culture and history of Iwakuni to a wider audience through engaging digital media. Tamada believes that games possess a unique ability to inspire curiosity and instill a sense of adventure, urging people to explore not only the game world but also the real-life locations depicted within.

As they prepare for their participation at the Tokyo Game Show, Reborn Smith is excited about sharing their creative journey with the gaming community and hopes it marks the beginning of an exciting chapter in the gaming landscape.

About Reborn Smith

Founded as a leather repair company, Reborn Smith has grown to include character IP development, digital creative projects, and regional initiatives centered around Iwakuni City. IWAKUNI RUN stands as a testament to the company's evolution, embodying a desire to connect and entertain through the medium of games.

For more information about the game and company, visit Reborn Smith's official website.