Krafton, the South Korean publisher behind PUBG and The Callisto Protocol, acquired Hi-Fi Rush’s developer Tango Gameworks, after Microsoft announced in April that it would shut down the developer due to restructuring.
Now, in a recent interview with Game Developer, Krafton CEO Changhan Kim shed light on the company’s decision to acquire Tango Gameworks, emphasizing that the move was driven more by creative aspirations than financial gain.
Importance: Hi-Fi Rush, though not as popular, was a well-crafted game that received praise from both critics and fans for its unique gameplay style, highlighting the true creativity of its developers.
Kim explained that the acquisition was not about making a quick profit but about fostering creativity within Krafton’s portfolio.
He acknowledged that while Tango Gameworks hadn’t experienced massive commercial success, the studio still possessed significant creative potential, stating:
“We wanted to maintain their legacy.”
When asked about the acquisition cost, Kim declined to provide specifics, simply stating that it wasn’t too expensive or too cheap.
He emphasized that the focus was on enabling the studio to take risks and innovate without the pressure of financial performance. Even if Tango’s future games don’t turn a profit, Krafton wants to provide the space for creative risks and experimentation.
Kim also addressed concerns about profitability, candidly admitting that a potential sequel to Hi-Fi Rush might not generate massive revenue. Still, Krafton is committed to fostering an environment where developers feel free to experiment and challenge themselves.
He emphasized that the goal isn’t to chase hits but to allow creative projects to flourish, with the hope that one might eventually succeed.
Notably, the acquisition only includes the Hi-Fi Rush IP, as bringing over other Tango Gameworks titles like The Evil Within or Ghostwire Tokyo would have overly complicated the deal.
Kim highlighted that Krafton’s fans are primarily interested in Hi-Fi Rush sequels, reinforcing the studio’s focus on nurturing this specific franchise.
In conclusion, Krafton’s acquisition of Tango Gameworks represents a strategic decision to diversify its creative output and provide opportunities for innovation, even if financial success isn’t guaranteed.
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