Former Xbox studio Tango Gameworks and Hi-Fi Rush has been acquired by PUBG’s Krafton Inc, saving it from closure

Former Xbox studio Tango Gameworks and Hi-Fi Rush has been acquired by PUBG's Krafton Inc, saving it from closure

What you need to know

  • A few months ago, Microsoft closed Tango Gameworks, its only Japanese-based team. 
  • Tango Gameworks was known for titles like Hi-Fi Rush and The Evil Within. 
  • Krafton Inc. publishes mega-franchise battle royale PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds, and has been expanding to other regions and franchises as of late. 

As a seasoned tech enthusiast with a soft spot for gaming, I must say this news about Tango Gameworks being acquired by Krafton Inc. brings a breath of fresh air amidst the gloomy backdrop of layoffs that has been plaguing the industry this year.


Microsoft has struck a deal with Krafton, allowing Tango Gameworks to continue its operations, since Krafton has now completely taken over Tango Gameworks from Microsoft, along with the rights to Hi-Fi Rush. Krafton, famous for games such as PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds, is the new owner.

Earlier this year, Microsoft shut down Tango Gameworks, which was one of several Xbox studios affected during a wave of layoffs. Tango Gameworks, founded by Shinji Mikami (Resident Evil creator), gained recognition for games like Hi-Fi Rush, a fast-paced rhythm brawler, and The Evil Within survival horror series. Microsoft acquired the studio in 2010 as part of their purchase of ZeniMax Media.

Today, Krafton Inc has brought on board the skilled team from Tango Gameworks, marking a thrilling milestone in their global growth and their initial substantial investment within the Japanese video game market. According to the press release, this strategic move grants them ownership of Tango Gameworks’ popular intellectual property, Hi-Fi RUSH.

It seems clear that Hi-Fi Rush moving to another platform implies a possible sequel could follow from this partnership. On the other hand, franchises such as Ghostwire: Tokyo and The Evil Within are staying with Microsoft. Both Krafton and Microsoft assured us that this won’t affect their current game library, which will continue to be accessible on Xbox Game Pass and various other stores where they’re currently stocked.

Through a statement made to Windows Central, a Microsoft representative revealed that they are collaborating with Krafton to allow Tango Gameworks to jointly develop more games. They eagerly anticipate the release of their next masterpiece and assure there will be no changes to the current library of Tango Games.

Former Xbox studio Tango Gameworks and Hi-Fi Rush has been acquired by PUBG's Krafton Inc, saving it from closure

For both Tango Gameworks enthusiasts and fans of Hi-Fi Rush, there’s a chance for a fresh start. Last year, Tango Gameworks unexpectedly launched Hi-Fi Rush on Xbox Game Pass, catching many Xbox fans off guard. Microsoft called it a success, but financial cutbacks across the company earlier in 2024 unfortunately forced Tango to close its doors.

Watching Krafton breathe fresh life into the studio is nothing short of exhilarating, and I can’t wait to see where this journey leads us next. It’s heartening to witness at least one positive outcome amidst a year that has seen layoffs sweep across all sectors of entertainment and technology.

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2024-08-12 03:09