Unveiling the Future: Krafton's Bold Move in Acquiring Tango Gameworks

In a surprising turn of events, South Korean gaming giant Krafton stepped in to rescue Japanese developer Tango Gameworks this August, just months after Microsoft announced its controversial decision to shut down the studio. This acquisition has not only saved the creators of the beloved rhythm action game, Hi-Fi Rush, but has also spotlighted the rare occasion where a team of talented employees has been re-hired after a studio closure.

Hi-Fi Rush, a BAFTA-winning game that captivated audiences and garnered three million players worldwide, plays a significant role in this acquisition. In an industry plagued by layoffs and closures, Krafton’s integration of Tango Gameworks marks an exceptional revival story. With Tango now joining the ranks of Krafton's diverse collection of studios—including PUBG Studios, Bluehole Studio, and Striking Distance Studios—the company is clearly on an ambitious expansion trajectory.

Maria Park, Krafton's head of corporate development, revealed insights into the acquisition during an engaging interview with GamesIndustry.biz. She highlighted how Krafton has learned from the success of PUBG, diversifying its portfolio while ensuring it doesn't simply replicate existing games. Over the past quarter alone, they explored partnerships with approximately 200 to 300 studios globally, reinforcing their commitment to innovation.

The Vision Behind the Acquisition

Park shared that when Krafton learned of Tango Gameworks' impending closure, a team quickly traveled to Tokyo. Recognizing Tango's unique history of creativity and its passionate workforce, Krafton decided to step in. 'We were impressed by their dedication and the fervor with which they were crafting projects,' she stated. Following discussions, they successfully onboarded around 70 to 80 of Tango's approximately 90 employees, creating a solid foundation for the studio's future.

In response to the industry's concerning trend of closures and layoffs, Park emphasized the importance of preserving creative teams. 'Our strategy is to support and nurture innovation within the gaming community,' she explained, recognizing Tango's contributions and potential to create innovative gameplay experiences.

Future Prospects: Expanding into Japan

Krafton's acquisition of Tango represents a significant initial investment in the Japanese gaming market. Park noted that while they are exploring additional opportunities in Japan, their approach is cautious and focused on partnering with creative teams. 'It's vital for us to find studios with strong visions and unique gameplay concepts,' she said, indicating that more collaborations could follow as they continue to search for promising developers.

Hi-Fi Rush: The Future Looks Bright

As for Hi-Fi Rush, with the studio's creative talents now under Krafton's wing, there are plans to expand this beloved franchise further. According to Park, the team was already working on Hi-Fi Rush 2, aiming to surpass fan expectations with an expansive and innovative gaming experience. The goal is to integrate feedback received about the original, enhancing environmental designs to create a more dynamic gameplay atmosphere.

While contractual discussions around the game’s IP continue with Microsoft, Park assures that Tango is dedicated to quality over speed. 'The team wants to ensure that everything meets high standards before they release it,' she remarked.

Beyond Hi-Fi Rush: What’s Next for Tango?

Although the focus has been predominantly on Hi-Fi Rush, Park mentioned that new projects are in the pipeline. One project hints at a potential shift to cooperative online gameplay—territory Tango is looking to explore with Krafton's seasoned expertise in live-service games.

Krafton is not merely interested in maintaining Tango's legacy but envisions propelling the studio towards new heights, leveraging their resources for broader market reach. 'Success for Tango means creating unique experiences that consistently resonate with players,' Park concluded, promising an environment of creative freedom that will empower the team to flourish.

Conclusion: A Creative Renaissance in Gaming

With Krafton's acquisition of Tango Gameworks, the gaming world is witnessing an exciting new chapter. As the studio embarks on its journey under new leadership, fans eagerly await the innovative visions and unforgettable experiences that will surely emerge from this partnership. One thing is clear: Krafton is not just looking to replicate past successes but is dedicated to nurturing creativity, paving the way for the future of gaming innovation.