NetEase Ends Funding for Yakuza Creator's New Game Studio
Chinese gaming giant NetEase will stop financing Toshihiro Nagoshi's studio in May, just months after the former Yakuza series creator announced his first independent game.
NetEase Ends Funding for Yakuza Creator's New Game Studio
Chinese gaming company NetEase will halt financing for Nagoshi Studio in May 2024, according to Bloomberg reports. The studio is led by Toshihiro Nagoshi, the veteran developer best known for creating the Yakuza video game series.
Nagoshi Studio had recently announced its first project, Gang of Dragon, in December 2023. The announcement came as the studio's debut title after Nagoshi left Sega in 2021 to start his independent venture with NetEase's backing.
Background on Nagoshi Studio
Toshihiro Nagoshi gained fame in the gaming world as the creator and longtime producer of the Yakuza series, which follows the stories of Japanese organized crime families. His work on these games earned him recognition for storytelling and character development in the gaming industry.
After departing from Sega, where he spent over two decades, Nagoshi established his new studio with initial support from NetEase. The Chinese company has been expanding its presence in the global gaming market through partnerships and acquisitions.
What This Means
While Gang of Dragon was announced just a few months ago, the future of the project remains unclear following this funding decision. NetEase's choice to end financing could impact the studio's ability to complete development on their inaugural title.
The gaming industry has seen several high-profile studio closures and funding changes in recent years, making independent game development increasingly challenging even for experienced creators.