The industry thrives on a "media mix" strategy, where successful stories are adapted across multiple formats like manga, anime, and games to maximize economic benefits.
Once a trainee is deemed ready, they make their debut as an idol, often as part of a group or as a solo artist. Debuts are highly publicized events, with idols typically releasing their first single or album, and appearing on TV and radio shows to promote their work.
The Japanese video game industry is one of the largest and most influential in the world: