ArcLight Inc. (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo) announces that its conversation-focused cooperative board game 'ito' has surpassed a cumulative total of 1 million units sold worldwide. The fourth installment of the series is scheduled for release in 2027.

About 'ito'

'ito' Players: 2-10, Playtime: 30 minutes, Recommended Age: 8+

In this game, all players cooperate to arrange cards numbered 1 to 100 in sequential order.

Players are forbidden from speaking the numbers on their cards. Instead, they communicate using 'prompts' to convey their numbers and try to guess each other's numbers.

As a cooperative game, players can aim for victory in a friendly atmosphere, and even if they fail, they can enjoy discussions about their differing values.

It's recommended for all situations, whether discovering a friend's surprising side or breaking the ice with someone new. In recent years, its high communication-inducing power has led to its widespread use in educational and welfare settings.

'ito Rainbow' allows for team play, and 'ito Classic' features a classical design.

▼Introductory video explaining how to play in 1 minute

'ito' Series Development

Since its release in August 2019, the 'ito' series has been supported by many users as a 'communication game that shares values that cannot be conveyed by words alone.'

In addition to the expansion of series products, ArcLight has realized various initiatives beyond the scope of board games, including book adaptations, collaborative products, and amusement prizes.

In 2023, a major step was taken towards overseas expansion, and the game is now available in 11 languages worldwide. In May 2026, the cumulative sales of the 'ito' series worldwide surpassed 1 million units.

'ito' will continue to challenge new possibilities as a communication game that connects people across generations and borders.

Game Designer's Comment

Mr. 326, the game designer and illustrator, has provided a comment to commemorate the sale of 1 million units.

326 (Mitsuru Nakamura)

"ito is a game that everyone has created and nurtured. It's a rare game that took shape when someone shone a light on a play that was born by chance during a group session, and after its release, everyone who played it continuously shaped it into an easier-to-play form and nurtured it. And then... amidst that... a harsh season came, where meeting people was criticized and people were separated. At that time, ito connected people. It felt like destiny. I am luckier than anyone to have encountered this game, and I want to make the most of this connection and continue to connect many people. I hope we can continue to nurture ito together. Thank you all very much."

1 Million Units Sold! Thank You Present Campaign Underway

A campaign is currently being held where by following the official ArcLight Games X account (@ArclightGames) and reposting the campaign post, 10 winners will be selected to receive a 3-item 'ito' set.

View Details

Campaign Period

June 30, 2026 (Tue) - July 14, 2026 (Fri)

How to Enter

1. Follow the official ArcLight Games X account (@ArclightGames) on X. 2. Repost or quote repost the relevant campaign post posted during the campaign period.

Prize Details

'ito'

'ito Rainbow'

'ito Classic' - 1 of each item

Winner Announcement and Shipping

Winners will be contacted via DM to their X account used for entry within one week after the campaign ends, with instructions for a shipping information registration form. Please note that if you cannot correctly enter the required information by the deadline, your win will be invalidated.

Fourth Installment of 'ito' Confirmed for Production with New Rules!

To further boost the popularity of 'ito', ArcLight will produce the fourth installment of the series for release in 2027.

▼Your 'values' might be included in the game!? Prompts wanted!

To coincide with the release of the new 'ito', we are holding a public call for 'prompts' to be included in the game.

Please submit original prompts that you've enjoyed using in games, or ideas that you think would be fun to play with. Those whose prompts are selected will have their names published in the game's credits.

Examples)

- Distance from current location: 1 (close) ⇔ 100 (far)

- Warmth of clothing: 1 (cool) ⇔ 100 (warm)

Campaign Period

June 30, 2026 (Tue) - July 31, 2026 (Fri)

Application Form / Terms and Conditions Here

Related Links

- 'ito' Product Page

https://arclightgames.jp/product/ito/

- 'ito Rainbow' Product Page

https://arclightgames.jp/product/705rainbow/

- 'ito Classic' Product Page

https://arclightgames.jp/product/781ito/

- ArcLight Inc. Official Website

http://www.arclight.co.jp/

- Shogakukan Good Games 'Corocoro ito'

https://www.shogakukan.co.jp/books/09942530

- Gakken 'Novelization of ITO'

https://hon.gakken.jp/book/1020572900

- Bandai Co., Ltd. 'Board Game Miniature Collection ito pocket'

https://gashapon.jp/products/detail.php?jan_code=4582769897924000

About ArcLight Inc.

Established in 1998 as a game development company. ArcLight is a comprehensive analog game manufacturer that engages in a wide range of businesses, including the planning, development, manufacturing, publishing, wholesale, event operation, and store management of analog games. They release new board games every month.

They also operate 'Game Market,' Japan's largest board game event, aiming to expand global human communication through games.

FACT BOX

  • Source: PR TIMES
  • Category: PR