Chai in Hi-Fi Rush.
Following Microsoft’s closure of Tango Gameworks and its subsequent acquisition by Krafton, new details have emerged about the studio’s projects. Krafton’s head of corporate development, Maria Park, confirmed in a recent interview with GamesIndustry.biz that Hi-Fi Rush 2 was already in development at Tango, with a six-month-old build presented during acquisition negotiations.
The Future of Hi-Fi Rush 2
While earlier reports hinted at a sequel pitch, Park’s statement confirms active development was underway. Currently, work on Hi-Fi Rush 2 is paused pending the finalization of the IP acquisition. Krafton has reassured fans that development will resume once the process is complete, prioritizing quality over a rushed release. Park emphasized their commitment to exceeding community expectations for the sequel.
Tango’s Other Projects and IP Ownership
Chai fighting in Hi-Fi Rush.
Beyond Hi-Fi Rush 2, a team at Tango was also working on anniversary content for The Evil Within series. This critically acclaimed survival horror franchise, spearheaded by Tango founder Shinji Mikami, debuted in 2014. While the series has gained a dedicated following, its unique blend of survival horror, atmospheric tension, and open-world elements hasn’t achieved mainstream recognition.
However, Park clarified that Krafton’s acquisition only includes the Hi-Fi Rush IP. The Evil Within and Ghostwire: Tokyo will remain under Microsoft’s ownership, a point Krafton has consistently emphasized. Park acknowledged the desire to acquire all Tango IPs but explained that focusing solely on Hi-Fi Rush streamlined the acquisition process.
The Closure of Tango Gameworks and the Fate of Hi-Fi Rush
Microsoft’s decision to close Tango Gameworks, along with several other studios, stemmed from a strategic shift towards prioritizing high-impact titles and investing in established Bethesda franchises. This move, announced by Xbox Game Studios head Matt Booty, raised concerns about the future of Tango’s projects, particularly Hi-Fi Rush. The game garnered critical acclaim and a significant player base following its 2023 release, boosted by its availability on Xbox Game Pass. Its recent addition to the PlayStation 5 platform further solidified its growing popularity.
Looking Ahead
The future of Hi-Fi Rush 2 is now secured under Krafton, promising a continuation of the rhythm-action adventure. While fans await further updates, Krafton’s commitment to quality and community expectations offers a positive outlook for the sequel.
