Tango Gameworks, the studio behind *Hi-Fi Rush*, *Ghostwire: Tokyo*, and *The Evil Within* series, has officially announced a new era for the company, marked by a new logo, a revamped website, and confirmation that they are working on a new action game. This announcement follows a tumultuous period for the studio, including its closure by Microsoft in May 2024 and subsequent acquisition by Krafton (*PUBG*).
A New Beginning
Rebranding and Studio Vision
On June 2, 2025, Tango Gameworks unveiled its new branding and website, signaling a fresh start for the Tokyo-based developer. The new logo and brand design are intended to embody the studio’s vision as a “creative workshop,” emphasizing creator ownership and handcrafted games with soul. The studio’s vision is centered on creating games and experiences that emphasize a “hand-made” feel.
Studio Reopening and Hiring
Tango Gameworks has reopened its Tokyo office with a hybrid work environment. The studio is actively hiring for numerous positions across various departments to support its upcoming project. These positions include roles for senior programmers, animators, IT support, and more.
Krafton’s Acquisition and Support
Krafton acquired Tango Gameworks from Microsoft in August 2024, ensuring the studio’s survival after its closure. Krafton intends to collaborate with Xbox and ZeniMax to maintain continuity at Tango Gameworks, allowing the team to continue developing the *Hi-Fi Rush* IP and explore future projects.
The New Action Game
Early Development Stages
Tango Gameworks has confirmed that they are in the early stages of developing an unannounced action game. While details are scarce, job listings suggest the game is being built in Unreal Engine 5. The positions span almost every department, indicating that the project is likely in the conceptual phase.
Job Listing Insights
Job listings provide some clues about the new game’s direction:
- Senior-Level Designer: The studio seeks someone with experience developing 3D action games.
- Cutscene Manager: Experience in 3D action game development is also required for this role.
- Senior Character Artist: Preference for experience in modeling based on photorealistic character design, which suggests that the unannounced action game will feature plenty of platforming, a dynamic perspective, and an art style that skews towards photorealism.
These details suggest the game may incorporate platforming elements and a dynamic perspective, with a focus on a photorealistic art style.
Potential Directions
While it is unconfirmed, there is speculation that the new action game could be a sequel to *Hi-Fi Rush*. However, Krafton has stated that Tango Gameworks will also look to spin up some original projects. Tango was also reportedly working on at least two new games before being shut down by Microsoft, including a new Jrpg ip that was in the early conceptual stages of development.
Background and Previous Games
Tango Gameworks was founded in March 2010 by Shinji Mikami, known for his work on the *Resident Evil* series. The studio has developed several notable titles:
- *The Evil Within* (2014): A survival horror game directed by Shinji Mikami.
- *The Evil Within 2* (2017): A sequel to the original survival horror game.
- *Ghostwire: Tokyo* (2022): An action-adventure game with horror elements.
- *Hi-Fi Rush* (2023): A rhythm-based action game that was a departure from the studio’s horror roots.
*Hi-Fi Rush* was a critical and commercial success, earning nominations for several Game of the Year awards. The game’s unique rhythm-based combat and vibrant art style were praised by critics and players alike.
Microsoft’s Closure and Krafton’s Acquisition
In May 2024, Microsoft announced the closure of Tango Gameworks, along with Arkane Austin, Alpha Dog Games, and Roundhouse Studios. This decision was met with widespread criticism, particularly given the success of *Hi-Fi Rush*.
Krafton acquired Tango Gameworks in August 2024, reversing the closure and allowing the studio to continue its work. Krafton’s acquisition was a welcome development for fans and industry observers, ensuring that Tango Gameworks could continue to create unique and innovative games.
Future Prospects
Collaboration with Xbox and ZeniMax
Krafton intends to collaborate with Xbox and ZeniMax to ensure a smooth transition and maintain continuity at Tango Gameworks. This collaboration may involve future projects and the continued development of the *Hi-Fi Rush* IP.
Continued Innovation
Tango Gameworks aims to create games that no one else can and foster a space for creatives to grow. The studio’s vision is centered on acting like a creative workshop, making games and experiences that emphasize a “hand-crafted” feel. Tango Gameworks remains dedicated to the creation and growth of distinctive and new IPs, taking on challenges to be a unique voice in the game industry.
A Promising Future
The relaunch of Tango Gameworks under Krafton’s ownership marks a significant and positive turn of events for the studio. With a new brand identity, a commitment to innovation, and the development of a new action game, Tango Gameworks is poised to make a strong return to the gaming industry. The studio’s focus on creating unique, handcrafted experiences and fostering a creative environment suggests that their future projects will be highly anticipated by fans and industry observers alike.
The acquisition by Krafton has provided Tango Gameworks with a new lease on life, allowing them to continue their tradition of creating innovative and memorable games. As they embark on this new chapter, the gaming community eagerly awaits the unveiling of their next project and the unique experiences it will undoubtedly bring.