Krafton Inc. Rescues Tango Gameworks and Hi-Fi Rush
Months after Microsoft announced the closure of Tango Gameworks, Krafton Inc., the publisher behind PUBG, has acquired the studio and its critically acclaimed rhythm action game, Hi-Fi Rush. This surprising acquisition follows the unexpected shuttering of Tango Gameworks earlier this year, leaving fans and industry professionals stunned.
Tango Gameworks to Continue Hi-Fi Rush and Explore New Projects
Krafton's acquisition secures the rights to Hi-Fi Rush, ensuring its continued development. Krafton will collaborate with Xbox and ZeniMax for a seamless transition, maintaining continuity for the Tango Gameworks team and its ongoing projects. The press release explicitly states that Tango will continue developing the Hi-Fi Rush IP and explore future projects.
Krafton emphasized its commitment to expanding its global presence and investing in the Japanese video game market. This acquisition represents a significant step in that strategy.
Tango Gameworks, founded by Resident Evil creator Shinji Mikami, is known for titles like The Evil Within series and Ghostwire: Tokyo. Despite its success, particularly with Hi-Fi Rush's 2023 release, Microsoft's restructuring efforts led to its closure. Krafton assures that existing titles, including The Evil Within, The Evil Within 2, and Ghostwire: Tokyo, will remain unaffected.
Microsoft's statement to Windows Central confirmed their collaboration with Krafton to support Tango Gameworks' continued game development.
Tango Gameworks was among several Bethesda studios shut down by Microsoft earlier this year following the ZeniMax acquisition in 2021. The decision to close Tango, despite Hi-Fi Rush's critical acclaim, was part of a broader strategy focused on "high-impact titles."
Following their layoff, Hi-Fi Rush developers announced a physical edition in collaboration with Limited Run Games and released a final patch, demonstrating their dedication to the game.
Hi-Fi Rush 2 Remains Unconfirmed
Hi-Fi Rush's success, including awards for Best Animation (BAFTA) and Best Audio Design (The Game Awards and Game Developers’ Choice Awards), made the studio's closure particularly disheartening.
Krafton's statement highlights their commitment to supporting Tango Gameworks' innovative spirit. While there's speculation about a Hi-Fi Rush sequel following this acquisition, no official announcement has been made regarding "Hi-Fi Rush 2." Reports indicate Tango Gameworks had pitched a sequel to Xbox prior to its closure, but the proposal was ultimately rejected.
This acquisition strengthens Krafton's global reach and portfolio with high-quality content, aligning with their mission to push the boundaries of interactive entertainment. The future of Tango Gameworks and the potential for a Hi-Fi Rush sequel remains an exciting prospect for fans.
