Tango Gameworks founder Shinji Mikami expresses relief about Krafton taking in staff after closure 

It was recently announced that South Korean publisher Krafton would be taking over Tango Gameworks, saving the studio from demise after Microsoft announced its closure in May this year. Krafton also stated that they would be welcoming Tango’s former employees, with Microsoft supporting the transition. 

Shinji Mikami, the original founder of Tango Gameworks, addressed the news in a brief comment on his personal X account, expressing relief that his former colleagues have found a new employer. Mikami left Tango Gameworks in 2023, two years after the studio’s parent company was acquired by Microsoft. This was not an easy decision for the creator either, as he previously mentioned wanting to leave for eight years before finally doing so. A feeling of responsibility towards the young creators under his wing prolonged his stay. 

Despite his departure, Mikami seemed shaken by the sudden news of Tango’s closure, which Xbox executives have vaguely hinted at being related to the loss of leadership. 

However, with Krafton’s decision to take in the studio, the development staff have not been abandoned, and what’s more, they get to work on a new title in the Hi-Fi Rush IP, which Krafton has acquired the rights to.