Tango Gameworks, known for hits like Hi-Fi Rush and The Evil Within, has faced a tumultuous journey recently. After the studio’s surprise closure in May 2023, its acquisition by Krafton later in the year gave the team a fresh start. Retaining much of its core staff, the studio is now looking ahead with cautious optimism and creative ambition.
Despite rumors about a sequel to Hi-Fi Rush, the team has yet to commit to one. Studio head Colin Mack clarified that while the idea is being positively considered, no final decisions have been made. Creative director John Johanas emphasized that the team has a deep affection for Hi-Fi Rush and its characters, but they are also exploring new possibilities for the studio’s future.
Creating fresh, innovative games remains central to Tango Gameworks’ identity. Development director Kazuaki Egashira highlighted that Hi-Fi Rush succeeded as a new IP but warned against letting it become stagnant. For Tango, taking creative risks and embracing new challenges is a core philosophy. Johanas noted the importance of preserving the studio’s unique chemistry, which had been carefully nurtured over years of collaboration.
Currently, Tango Gameworks has about 50 employees and plans to expand to 100 by early 2025. This growth will allow them to focus on one major project while experimenting with smaller creative endeavors, similar to how Hi-Fi Rush originated.
Johanas also shared the lasting influence of Shinji Mikami, Tango’s founder who departed after the release of Hi-Fi Rush. Mikami’s collaborative philosophy, which prioritized team input and creative freedom, continues to guide the studio’s approach. Johanas described Mikami’s belief in fostering an environment where the team can create freely, comparing it to the organic growth of a tree rather than the controlled shaping of a bonsai.
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