Yesterday it was reported that Nippon Ichi Software CEO Sohei Niikawa stated that if Disgaea 5 didn't sell a minimum of 150,000 copies, the company might not stay in business. However, an official statement debunks that claim, stating that what was said was not only in jest but further misconstrued by a Japanese blog.

According to the NIS America official, this was his actual comment with a translation directly from him with his intended spirit intact:

「ディスガイア5が計画通り売れなかったら来年業界にいないかも

。Bloodborneと丸被りになっちゃったけど両方買って欲しい。」

If Disgaea 5 does not sell as planned, I, as the producer, might need to leave the Japanese gaming industry (LOL).

Niikawa-san further elaborated:

This comment was simply self-deprecating humor and in no way did it mean or imply that Nippon Ichi Software as a company is going bankrupt or is in financial difficulties. I was merely trying to use humor in order to get the point across that we are committed to selling 150,000 copies of Disgaea 5.

It's a relief to hear that comment was made jokingly. But I do admire Niikawa-san commitment to ensure good sales for Disgaea 5 -- hopefully he'll reach his goal this time.