YOASOBI released their latest single, “PLAYERS,” today, March 21. The song is an original composition created as part of “Project: MEMORY CARD,” which commemorates the 30th anniversary of the first PlayStation console.

Under the concept of “saving memories of PlayStation into music,” the project invited the public to share episodes of games they wish they could experience for the first time again, using the hashtag #MemoryOfPlay. The selected stories inspired the creation of this new track.

The song kicks off with an energetic chant and builds into a pop anthem with a repeated chorus that stirs excitement. The lyrics convey a message of positivity, reflecting on how the protagonists and narratives encountered in games empower the player in real life, inspiring courage and anticipation for the future.

On the project’s special website, users can explore the “save data” compiled from the #MemoryOfPlay submissions.

The 30th anniversary commercial featuring “PLAYERS” includes voice performances from actress Nanase Nishino, VTuber Pekora Usada, and popular game streamer Kiyo. Characters modeled after each of them embark on a fantastical journey into the world of games, triggered by a mysterious memory card.

Comments from the artists involved

YOASOBI
—What were you particular about when composing the song? (Composer Ayase)
“I’ve always loved video games, and even now, I still play them regularly. It’s no exaggeration to say that I grew up alongside games.
There are so many lessons I’ve learned from the stories and struggles of game protagonists. Those experiences have helped shape who I am today.
This track is packed with my love for games and the memories I’ve built growing up with them.”

—What was your reaction upon first hearing the track? (Vocalist ikura)
“I was genuinely moved—I messaged Ayase right away! (laughs)
Ever since high school, I’ve been watching game streams and have always had games as part of my daily life. They’ve supported me through so much.
So when I listened to this song, all my feelings toward gaming just exploded. I believe my own love for games is also deeply embedded in this performance.”

Nanase Nishino
“Happy 30th anniversary to PlayStation!
I really love the world built in this project’s video. No matter how many times I watch it, the combination with the music always gives me a thrill.
Each of the three characters has a distinct personality, and since they include parts of ourselves, I grew attached to them quickly.
I’ve played every PlayStation from the original to the PS5.
I still remember the satisfaction of swapping game discs and how the discs were divided back in the day. I also treasured memory cards, like the one in the video.
To avoid mixing mine up with my brother’s, I carefully labeled it with my name.
Since I’m the same age as the original PlayStation, I feel a special connection and am truly happy to be part of this.”

Pekora
“Congratulations on PlayStation’s 30th anniversary, peko!!!
I’m beyond thrilled to be part of such a historic project! The visuals, the music—everything is top-notch.
It’s such a heart-pounding, exciting watch, and the melody sticks in your head instantly.
Voicing ‘Peke’ was a total blast!
Games are such an essential part of my life now—it’s no exaggeration to say I can’t live without them.
I’ll continue exploring the world of PlayStation forever, peko!!!!”

Kiyo
“Congratulations to PlayStation on 30 incredible years.
From childhood to adulthood, PlayStation has always held a special place in my heart.
I’ve played alone, with family, friends, and now online with people around the world.
Each session brought new memories, and each memory is irreplaceable.
I’m grateful to have taken part in such a meaningful project to mark this milestone.
The visuals and music are stunning—nostalgic, yet fresh and like nothing else.
I was completely drawn into the fast-paced storytelling.
My character ‘Ki3’—I mean, it basically reads as Kiyo, right? (laughs)
I had an absolute blast voicing him.
It was also great to perform alongside two of my closest friends.
PlayStation, I’ll keep creating memories with you until my memory card is full!”

Trailer

Source : ORICON NEWS