Shinji Mikami believed that Tango Gameworks would be “safe” with Xbox thanks to the success of Hi-Fi RUSH

Shinji Mikami is one of the most important creators in the video game industry, as he is considered the father of resident Evil and Dino CrisisIn 2010 he founded Tango Gameworks, although at the beginning of 2023 he left its ranks; however, he left with the hope that the studio would be safe after the success of Hi-Fi RUSH.

The rhythm-based combat game debuted in 2023. At the time, it received critical acclaim and was a hit, according to Microsoft. “We couldn’t be happier with what the team at Tango Gameworks delivered with this surprise release,” he said. Aaron Greenbergvice president of marketing at Xbox.

Hi-Fi RUSH abandoned its exclusivity and came to PlayStation 5 in March 2024 as part of Xbox’s new cross-platform strategy; however, Microsoft announced in May that this and other Bethesda studios will close their doors. The news took gamers and the studio itself by surprise. Shinji Mikami.

Related video: The great deception of exclusives

Shinji Mikami thought that Tango Gameworks’ future was secured with Hi-Fi RUSH

In a recent interview with the media IGNthe Japanese creative revealed how he felt when he found out that the studio he founded more than 10 years ago abruptly closed its doors. As he explains, he thought that the positive launch of Hi-Fi RUSH ensured the future of the company in Xbox.

“I thought the studio would be safe as long as they made games Hi-Fi RUSH“That’s one of the reasons I left Tango Gameworks. That’s why I was surprised when they closed the studio,” the creative commented.

Fortunately, the developer’s demise was short-lived. In August, KRAFTON announced that it had purchased the company and the rights to the series. Hi-Fi RUSHwhich includes the first game and possible sequels. At least half of the workforce has reportedly been retained.

Shinji Mikami is therefore optimistic about the future, and points out that the music video game has allowed the studio to stay alive, despite the closure that took place at the beginning of this year.

“Now KRAFTON has taken over the business, so I think it all worked out well in the end. It reminded me that if you make a good game, someone will pick it up. The hard work of the development team at Hi-Fi RUSH “It marked a new chapter for the company. I think that for a studio, making a good game is more directly related to survival than making a popular product,” the Japanese director said.

But tell us, what do you think about these statements? Let us read your thoughts in the comments.

You can find more information about Tango Gameworks’ upcoming projects by clicking here.

Related Video: The Good, the Bad and the Meh of Hi-Fi RUSH

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