Microsoft recently made the decision to shut down Tango Gameworks, the studio behind the popular game Hi-Fi RUSH. This move has left fans and industry watchers speculating about the reasons behind the closure and the future of the game. As the gaming landscape evolves, such developments highlight the challenges faced by game developers and the impact on beloved titles.
Microsoft Shuts Down Tango Gameworks
According to a new Bloomberg report, Tango Gameworks, the studio behind the acclaimed game Hi-Fi Rush, was actively working on a sequel before its sudden closure. Despite the departure of founder Shinji Mikami in 2023, the team was eager to explore new possibilities in the Hi-Fi Rush universe. Little information has been revealed about the proposed sequel, but it seems that Tango Gameworks was keen on expanding the franchise and had plans to hire additional staff.
Arkane Austin’s Ambitious Plans
Not to be outdone, Arkane Austin, known for their work on titles like Prey, had their own exciting project in the works. The studio was considering a return to its roots with a new single-player immersive sim. Fans of Arkane’s unique style and meticulously crafted worlds were undoubtedly curious about what this project would entail.
Xbox’s Cost-Cutting Initiatives
The closures of Tango Gameworks and Arkane Austin were part of a broader cost-cutting initiative at Xbox, according to the report. Xbox leadership felt that the overall studio system was “spread too thin,” with President Matt Booty likening it to “peanut butter on bread.”
ZeniMax studios head Jill Braff and Matt Booty attributed the closures to a desire to consolidate and focus on fewer projects, stating that it was “hard to support nine studios all across the world with a lean central team and an ever-growing plate of things to do.”
Industry Reaction and Uncertainty
The sudden shutdowns of Tango Gameworks and Arkane Austin have sparked shock and anger throughout the games industry, with former Arkane Austin developer Harvey Smith expressing his love and support for the affected teams.
There is also uncertainty about the future of Xbox, as Game Pass growth slows and Xbox sales decline. The company is reportedly considering raising the price of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and adding Call of Duty to the service.
Conclusion
Microsoft’s decision to shut down Tango Gameworks, the developer behind the critically acclaimed game Hi-Fi Rush, has sparked widespread outrage and disappointment among fans and the gaming community.
The studio’s closure, along with that of Arkane Austin, has raised concerns about the future of original games at Microsoft and the potential impact on the industry’s creative landscape. The move has also left many questioning the company’s priorities and the value it places on its developers, as Hi-Fi Rush was deemed a major success by Xbox.