Krafton Inc. Acquires Tango Gameworks, Saving Hi-Fi Rush!
In a surprising turn of events, Krafton Inc., the publisher behind PUBG, has acquired Tango Gameworks, the studio behind the critically acclaimed rhythm action game Hi-Fi Rush. This acquisition comes just months after Microsoft announced the closure of Tango Gameworks, sending shockwaves through the gaming community.
Krafton's Strategic Investment in Tango Gameworks
The acquisition includes the rights to the Hi-Fi Rush IP, ensuring the game's continued development. Krafton stated in a press release that they will collaborate with Xbox and ZeniMax to ensure a smooth transition for the Tango Gameworks team and their projects. The future for Tango looks bright, as Krafton plans to support the studio in creating innovative and exciting gaming experiences.
Krafton emphasized their commitment to supporting Tango Gameworks' creative vision, ensuring the continued success of Hi-Fi Rush and the exploration of future projects. Importantly, Krafton confirmed that existing titles like The Evil Within, The Evil Within 2, and Ghostwire: Tokyo will remain unaffected by the acquisition and will continue to be available on their respective platforms. This is a significant victory for fans who feared the loss of these beloved games.
Microsoft also issued a statement, expressing their support for Krafton's acquisition and looking forward to the future projects from Tango Gameworks.
The Future of Hi-Fi Rush and Tango Gameworks
The closure of Tango Gameworks, announced in May, was met with widespread disappointment. The studio, founded by Shinji Mikami (creator of Resident Evil), had achieved significant success, particularly with the release of Hi-Fi Rush in 2023. The game's critical acclaim, including awards for Best Animation (BAFTA Games Awards) and Best Audio Design (The Game Awards and Game Developers’ Choice Awards), made the closure even more perplexing.
While a Hi-Fi Rush 2 remains unconfirmed, the acquisition by Krafton offers a renewed hope for the franchise's future. The studio's developers, previously disheartened by the closure, now have a new opportunity to continue their work and potentially bring a sequel to life.
Krafton's acquisition represents a strategic move, expanding their global presence and bolstering their portfolio with high-quality content. This acquisition marks a significant investment in the Japanese video game market and underscores Krafton’s dedication to innovative and high-quality game development.
The gaming community eagerly awaits further announcements regarding Tango Gameworks' future projects and the potential for a Hi-Fi Rush sequel. For now, the news is overwhelmingly positive, offering a second chance for a talented studio and its critically acclaimed game.
