Krafton Inc. Rescues Tango Gameworks and Hi-Fi Rush from Closure
Just months after Microsoft announced the closure of Tango Gameworks, the acclaimed studio behind Hi-Fi Rush and The Evil Within series, Krafton Inc. (publisher of PUBG, TERA, and The Callisto Protocol) has acquired the studio and its intellectual property rights, including the critically acclaimed rhythm-action game, Hi-Fi Rush.
Tango Gameworks to Continue Hi-Fi Rush Development and Explore New Projects
The acquisition, announced via press release, marks a significant turn of events following Microsoft's unexpected decision to shut down Tango Gameworks earlier this year. Krafton assures a smooth transition, collaborating with Xbox and ZeniMax to maintain continuity for the team and ongoing projects. Crucially, Krafton confirms Tango will continue developing the Hi-Fi Rush IP and pursue new game concepts.
Krafton's statement emphasizes its commitment to expanding its global presence and investing in the Japanese game market, highlighting Hi-Fi Rush as a key asset in this strategic move. The publisher has explicitly stated that the existing game catalog (The Evil Within, The Evil Within 2, Ghostwire: Tokyo, and the original Hi-Fi Rush) will remain unaffected.
Microsoft's response, relayed to Windows Central, indicates support for Tango Gameworks' continued development under Krafton's ownership, expressing anticipation for their future projects.
The closure of Tango Gameworks, founded by Resident Evil creator Shinji Mikami, had been met with widespread disappointment, particularly given Hi-Fi Rush's critical success and award wins (including "Best Animation" at the BAFTA Games Awards and "Best Audio Design" at The Game Awards and Game Developers’ Choice Awards). The studio's developers even independently announced a physical edition of Hi-Fi Rush and a final patch after their layoff.
While speculation surrounds a potential Hi-Fi Rush 2, no official announcement has been made regarding Tango Gameworks' next project under Krafton. The acquisition, however, offers a lifeline to the studio and its celebrated IP, promising continued innovation in interactive entertainment.
