Pokémon maker Game Freak has confirmed it was the victim of a data breach after the information appeared online over the weekend.
The company, which has developed Nintendo’s exclusive video game series since 1996, said its servers were hacked in August this year.
A statement said 2,606 items containing the names and email addresses of current, former and contract employees were accessed.
The company does not comment on other information shared online and claims to show details about unreleased and upcoming projects.
Game Freak said it will contact those affected individually where possible and enhance security measures to prevent similar hacks in the future.
“We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience and anxiety caused to all involved,” it said.
Game Freak works closely with Nintendo and the Pokémon Company on the franchise, which is said to be one of the most valuable media properties in the world.
It is currently in upcoming development Pokémon Legends: ZAscheduled for release next year.
Last month, Nintendo and The Pokémon Company filed the application Legal action in Japan against the makers of Palword.
Developer Pocketpair’s game quickly earned the nickname “Pokémon with Guns” due to its characters’ resemblance to Nintendo’s creatures.
They have accused the company of patent infringement – although the exact details of the complaint have not been disclosed.
