There is hope for a Hi-Fi Rush 2 after all. That's because, in a bit of breaking and surprising news on Sunday, it's been reported that Tango Gameworks has been acquired by Krafton Inc. The move, which was shared by reliable insider Jez Corden of Windows Central, will help prevent the studio from closure.
Earlier this year, Microsoft announced its plans to Tango Gameworks, as well as Arkane Austin. It was part of a larger round of layoffs and internal shifting as Microsoft characterized it as a "reprioritization of titles and resources." Arkane Austin was responsible for the maligned Redfall, while Tango Gameworks brought about the smash hit Hi-Fi Rush, a third-person rhythm brawler.
Arkane still exists with its Arkane Lyon studio, however, the decision to shut down Tango Gameworks, Microsoft's only Japanese-based game studio, was met with much criticism. Previously, Microsoft had categorized Hi-Fi Rush as "one of the most successful launches for Bethesda and Xbox in recent years," so its closure was all the more puzzling, particularly as it was also shared that the game "generated significant positive momentum for the business and Tango."
Not All Of Tango Is Making Its Way To Krafton
It's important to note that Tango Gameworks' other properties, like Ghostwire Tokyo or The Evil Within, are not part of the acquisition. According to Corden's reporting, the business move is for Tango Gameworks and the rights to Hi-Fi Rush. The other titles will not be part of Krafton's new portfolio.
A statement shared with Windows Central iterated the following:
"Krafton Inc today welcomed the talented people of Tango Gameworks to their team, marking a exciting moment in the company's global expansion and its first significant investment in the Japanese video game market. This strategic move will include the rights to Tango Gameworks' acclaimed IP, Hi-Fi RUSH."
Microsoft similarly shared a statement of its own, writing:
"We’re working with Krafton to enable the team at Tango Gameworks to continue to build games together and we look forward to playing their next great game. There will be no impact to the existing catalog of Tango games."
Regardless of what is or isn't coming via the acquisition, it's a strong bit of positive news for the company. Studio closures and mass layoffs have become all too common in gaming as of late, so to see a beloved group get a second chance is refreshing. Only time will tell what Tango is able to produce under Krafton, though it's a great first step.
