Just months after Microsoft announced the closure of Tango Gameworks, Krafton Inc., the publisher behind PUBG, has acquired the acclaimed studio and its hit rhythm game, Hi-Fi Rush. This unexpected acquisition has breathed new life into the future of both the studio and the beloved title.
Krafton Acquires Tango Gameworks, Saving Hi-Fi Rush
Tango Gameworks to Continue Hi-Fi Rush and Explore New Projects
Krafton's acquisition of Tango Gameworks, the studio behind Hi-Fi Rush and the Evil Within series, was announced today. This follows Microsoft's earlier decision to shutter the studio, a move that surprised many. The deal includes the rights to Hi-Fi Rush, ensuring its continued development. Krafton will collaborate with Xbox and ZeniMax for a smooth transition. The statement from Krafton emphasizes their commitment to supporting Tango Gameworks in developing the Hi-Fi Rush IP and exploring new projects.
Krafton's press release highlights this as a significant step in their global expansion, marking their first major investment in the Japanese game market. They explicitly state their intention to support Tango Gameworks' commitment to innovation.
Initially slated for closure in May, Tango Gameworks, founded by Resident Evil creator Shinji Mikami, will now operate under Krafton's ownership. Despite the success of Hi-Fi Rush and other titles like Ghostwire: Tokyo and the Evil Within series, Microsoft's restructuring led to the studio's closure. Krafton assures fans that the existing game catalog (The Evil Within, The Evil Within 2, Ghostwire: Tokyo, and Hi-Fi Rush) will remain unaffected.
Microsoft commented on the acquisition, stating they are working with Krafton to ensure a smooth transition for the Tango Gameworks team.
Tango Gameworks was among several Bethesda studios shut down by Microsoft earlier this year following the ZeniMax acquisition in 2021. The decision, which also impacted Arkane Austin, Alpha Dog Games, and Roundhouse Studios, prioritized Xbox's "high-impact titles." Despite this, the Hi-Fi Rush team, even after layoffs, collaborated with Limited Run Games on a physical edition and released a final patch.
Hi-Fi Rush 2 Still Unconfirmed
Hi-Fi Rush's critical acclaim, including awards for Best Animation (BAFTA Games Awards) and Best Audio Design (The Game Awards and Game Developers’ Choice Awards), made Microsoft's decision particularly jarring. Krafton's acquisition aims to build on this success, furthering their commitment to innovative interactive entertainment.
Reports surfaced that Tango Gameworks had pitched a Hi-Fi Rush sequel to Xbox, which was rejected. While speculation abounds regarding a potential Hi-Fi Rush 2, no official announcement has been made. The future remains exciting, however, with Krafton's commitment to the studio and its talent.
