Tango Gameworks Finds New Life with Krafton, Hi-Fi Rush 2 in Focus

Tango Gameworks, the beloved Japanese developer known for titles like Hi-Fi Rush, The Evil Within, and Ghostwire: Tokyo, has been revived thanks to Krafton, the creators of PUBG. After Microsoft controversially shut down the studio alongside Arkane Austin, Alpha Dog Games, and Roundhouse Studios, fans and the industry at large expressed their dismay. However, Krafton has now given the studio a second chance, allowing Tango to rebrand as Tango Gameworks Inc. under its ownership.

The shutdown of Tango Gameworks was particularly shocking, given the widespread acclaim for their rhythm action game Hi-Fi Rush, which earned multiple awards and accolades in 2023. Hi-Fi Rush’s combination of accessibility and depth resonated with both newcomers and rhythm game veterans, cementing its place as one of the standout games of the year.

Krafton’s Rescue and Future Plans

Krafton’s acquisition of Tango Gameworks came with the Hi-Fi Rush intellectual property. While acknowledging that a sequel might not sell as much due to its niche genre, Krafton CEO Han 'CH' Kim affirmed the company’s commitment to delivering the best possible experience for fans. Their approach reflects an understanding of Tango’s creative strengths and the passion of its fanbase.

Today, the newly rebranded Tango Gameworks Inc. resumed social media activity, sharing the following message:

"A New Start
Tango Gameworks studio has been reborn as Tango Gameworks Inc., proudly joining KRAFTON Inc.
We're excited to continue crafting games that bring joy to players around the world.
Thank you for your continued support as we embark on this new journey!"

Legacy and the Path Forward

While The Evil Within, The Evil Within 2, and Ghostwire: Tokyo franchises remain under Microsoft’s ownership, they currently appear dormant. This opens the door for Tango Gameworks to potentially reacquire those licenses in the future. However, the studio’s immediate focus is on Hi-Fi Rush 2, a title that fans are eagerly awaiting.

Tango’s unique ability to blend innovation with accessibility ensures that their future games will capture the same creative spirit that made them a standout in the industry. As part of Krafton’s portfolio, the studio now has the resources and support to explore new ideas and revisit beloved franchises.

What are your hopes for Tango Gameworks under Krafton? Are you excited about the possibility of Hi-Fi Rush 2 or the return of The Evil Within? Share your thoughts below!