According to Krafton, Tango Gameworks is planning a “more open type of experience” for Hi-Fi Rush 2.
The Korean publisher, who recently acquired the Japanese studio and Hi-Fi Rush IP from Microsoft, discussed its plans for the series in an interview with GamesIndustry.biz.
Maria Park, head of corporate development at Krafton, said Tango was working on a six-month-old Hi-Fi Rush 2 build when the two companies first met. However, the sequel is currently on hold until Microsoft transfers all relevant assets to the new version. owner.
“I want to exceed the expectations of existing fans,” she said of the sequel. “For example, some of the feedback on Hi-Fi Rush is that some people felt it was a factory pass, so now we want to provide a more open world type of experience. I think you can play in a more dynamic environment rather than a completely open world. Also, I think we can apply more advanced technology to the rhythm action to give it a more synchronized feel.”
Park also said that the original Hi-Fi Rush could receive more DLC and be released for additional platforms such as Nintendo Switch.
“That’s what the team really wants. I think they want to work on the Hi-Fi Rush DLC because they are doing their best to ensure that Hi-Fi Rush 2 maintains its high quality standards. They don’t want to rush a sequel, they take the time they need to improve the game and present a different experience.”
Regarding Microsoft’s decision to sell Hi-Fi Rush along with Tango, Park said, “It’s very unusual to sell IP even when a studio is closing.”
Microsoft holds the rights to other IP previously developed by Tango, including Ghostwire Tokyo and The Evil Within.
“It would have been nice to have all the IP, but the team was working on Hi-Fi Rush 2 and the other team was working on commemorative content for The Evil Within,” said Park.
“Knowing Microsoft’s direction on IP sales, we did not want to push this acquisition too far, which could complicate the process and lengthen the entire negotiation process, so we mainly discussed Hi-Fi Rush.”
