Barnhouse Effect

Barnhouse Effect Co., Ltd. (BHE) is a Japanese games studio founded in 1997 and based in Tokyo. As well as developing video games, it also specialises in computer graphics (CG) and has a long-standing partnership with leading Japanese publishers. It is best known for its collaboration with Takara, for whom it developed the popular Choro Q series for the PlayStation and PlayStation 2 consoles.

The studio’s best-known games are Choro Q HG, Gadget Racers, Penny Racers, Choro Q, Choro Q Works and the action title Seek and Destroy (known in Japan as Shin Combat Choro Q). These games combine arcade-style racing, vehicle customisation and original gameplay, which has made them particularly popular amongst PlayStation 2 fans.

In addition to racing games, Barnhouse Effect has also been involved in the development of mobile titles, games for the Nintendo DS, Wii, PSP and PlayStation 3, and has provided CG animation for other gaming projects. Following the merger of Takara and Tomy, the studio became independent in 2005 and continued to develop its own projects as well as undertake commissioned work.

The studio’s strength lies in its combination of technical expertise in game development and the creation of high-quality 3D animations. Although it has never been among Japan’s largest developers, its games are still highly regarded today for their original ideas, entertaining arcade-style gameplay and the unmistakable style of the Choro Q series.

Thanks to its long history and diverse portfolio, Barnhouse Effect ranks among the interesting Japanese studios that have made a significant contribution to the range of games available for the PlayStation and PlayStation 2 consoles, particularly in the areas of racing and action titles.