As a long-time gamer, I can’t help but feel a mix of emotions when it comes to the recent happenings in the gaming industry. Last year was a rollercoaster ride with studios like The Evil Within, Ghostwire: Tokyo, and Hi-Fi Rush developer Tango Gameworks closing down. However, the acquisition of ZeniMax Media by Microsoft brought some solace, as it added powerhouses like Arkane Studios, Bethesda Game Studios, and id Software to the Microsoft Gaming banner.

However, the closure of Tango Gameworks by Microsoft in June 2024 was a blow, but the studio’s story didn’t end there. In August 2024, South Korean publisher Krafton acquired Tango, forming a partnership that has given new life to the Hi-Fi Rush developer. The studio is now officially rebranded as Tango Gameworks Inc., and they are looking forward to a promising 2025 with a new journey ahead.

As a gamer who’s been following Tango Gameworks since their inception, I can’t help but feel excited about the potential for a Hi-Fi Rush sequel or a brand-new IP altogether. The rebranding of Tango Gameworks is an inspiring step forward, and I’m eagerly awaiting updates on what they have in store for us this year.

On a lighter note, I can’t help but wonder if the new studio name was a subtle nod to the classic game, Pong, which shares a similar name. Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure – Tango Gameworks Inc. has certainly piqued my curiosity and ignited my excitement for what the future holds!

2024 was a rollercoaster ride for me as a gamer, with the game development sector facing several challenges that led to the shuttering of studios like The Evil Within, Ghostwire: Tokyo, and Tango Gameworks, creators of Hi-Fi Rush. This came after ZeniMax Media, Tango’s parent company, was acquired by Microsoft in 2021, bringing under their gaming banner renowned studios such as Arkane Studios (Dishonored, Prey), Bethesda Game Studios (The Elder Scrolls, Fallout), and id Software (DOOM, Quake). However, despite the addition of these prestigious studios to Microsoft’s roster, Tango Gameworks was unfortunately closed down by Microsoft in June 2024.

However, the journey didn’t end for the Hi-Fi Rush developer, as South Korean publisher Krafton acquired the studio in August. This move established a partnership between the studio and their previous publisher. Excitingly, the studio is anticipating a promising 2025, sharing on social media that they have undergone a minor yet meaningful rebranding to usher in the new year.

— Tango Gameworks (EN) (@TangoGameworks) January 1, 2025

On January 1st, 2025, Tango Gameworks announced on their official social media accounts (both Japanese and English) that they were undergoing a minor rebranding. In an official statement, the team confirmed a fresh beginning for themselves, having been reborn as Tango Gameworks Inc., following their acquisition by Krafton in August 2024. This transition was disclosed in the statement they released.

In a lively announcement on social platforms, Tango Gameworks Studio has been officially transformed into Tango Gameworks Incorporated, now part of KRAFTON Inc. We can’t wait to keep developing games that bring happiness to gamers globally.

After its studio closure and acquisition, the developers expressed gratitude to players and fans for their ongoing support. As they begin a fresh chapter in 2023 with a name change, they embark on a new journey filled with uncertainty but also excitement. While it’s unclear what Tango Gameworks might release in the years ahead, such as a sequel to Hi-Fi Rush or a completely new intellectual property, their rebranding has definitely sparked anticipation among fans.

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2025-01-02 10:43