"Natsume is a respected video game publisher and a welcome addition to the ESA. We are pleased to represent them and look forward to working with Natsume’s talented leadership and employees as they lead the way in developing creative new gaming experiences for families,” said Michael D. Gallagher, CEO of the ESA, the trade association representing U.S. computer and video game publishers. "More parents are playing computer and video games with their children than ever before, and Natsume's portfolio of family-oriented titles is a catalyst for that trend.

“It’s important to partner with an organization which not only acts as the voice for the video game industry, but also reflects the mission and goals we have established for our company,” said Hiro Maekawa, President and CEO at Natsume. “We are pleased to join the ESA and are excited to collaborate on upcoming programs and activities such as the 2009 E3 Expo.”

Natsume Inc. began publishing interactive entertainment software in 1990 and currently develops and publishes games for the PSP system, PS2, Wii and NDS platforms. Natsume Inc. is best recognized for its family-oriented, interactive games including the Harvest Moon series and Reel Fishing.