Despite Microsoft unexpectedly shutting down Tango Gameworks, the studio behind Hi-Fi Rush is currently recovering after being acquired by Krafton. After several months of silence, the company decided to talk with Famitsu to share their experience and expectations for the future. The interview was quite lengthy, with Tango Gameworks Representative Colin Mack, Creative Director John Johanas, and Development Director Kazuaki Egashira participating.
The conversation started with Mack talking about Krafton acquiring Tango Gameworks. According to the man, he had been searching for a new partner after hearing that their studio was about to be closed. Despite their initial apprehension, the team is positive about their new partner.
The Hi-Fi Rush studio feels that Krafton’s policies and approach to game development match them. Unlike many companies eager to release remakes and remasters, Krafton wants to publish more “original games.” Mack also appreciates the fact that Krafton’s CEO, Kim Chang-han, was originally on the development side. He believes that this experience makes the man understand the importance of the company’s creativity.
Mack then said that after the unexpected shutdown of Tango Gameworks, there were around 50 people left in the studio. Thankfully, the core members of Hi-Fi Rush and veteran employees who have stuck around since Psycho Break are still within the company. Mack said that they wanted to increase their number to 100 but they didn’t want their studio to be a factory that just keeps making games.
“With a 100-person team, we can make big projects and small ones as well,” Johanas added, “It’s just right for developing projects based on mutual trust.” The man said that Tango Gameworks members were stubborn and would accept any challenge because it would be fun.
The interview also touched on the topic of Hi-Fi Rush sequels. Mack is aware that many fans wanted to get more Hi-Fi Rush, and the team isn’t averse to making a sequel. However, based on his response, it seems that Tango Gameworks wants to create new titles and not just old I.P.s.
When asked about their expectations for the future, Egashira said that Tango Gameworks was a studio that was good at delivering new styles of games. Even if Hi-Fi Rush becomes one of their main series, the studio still plans to release original projects. Johanas then ended the interview by saying, “We don’t want to deliver a game that feels like a factory-made product.” He said that their team wanted players to feel a sense of originality, fun, and “nostalgia” because their studio cared about their games.
