Silent Hill creator Keiichiro Toyama talks about Tango Gameworks’ closure

Hi-Fi Rush, by Tango Gameworks.

The recent closure of Tango Gameworks, a studio responsible for titles such as The Evil Within and Ghostwire: Tokyo, has given the video game industry pause, fueling debate regarding innovation and survival in an increasingly competitive market. In this context, the words of Keiichiro Toyama, legendary creator of Silent Hill, resonate strongly: “Not changing everything every time might be the key to living and surviving”.

In a recent interview, Toyama details how he finds in FromSoftware, the studio behind the acclaimed Elden Ring, an example to follow to achieve success. Although titles such as Dark Souls, Bloodborne, and Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice differ in themes and settings, they share a common DNA that defines them as works of the studio. This identity has been the key to the success of FromSoftware. Rockstar Games, with the consistency of its open worlds and the deep narrative that characterizes Grand Theft Auto and Red Dead Redemption, is another example.

By contrast, Tango Gameworks, despite the critical acclaim received by The Evil Within, experimented with diverse genres in its following releases, moving away from its horror roots. Hi-Fi Rush, a rhythm action game, and Ghostwire: Tokyo, a first-person action shooter with horror and exploration elements, while praised, did not achieve the same commercial impact.

Hi-Fi Rush, by Tango Gameworks.

The decision of Microsoft to close Tango Gameworks, added to other layoffs in the industry such as the closure of Arkane Austin, makes the pursuit of innovation a paradox when choosing a development path. While experimentation and the search for new horizons are essential for growth, Toyama says the key to survival in such a competitive market may lie in finding a balance between innovation and preserving identity.

‘’The balance between routine and preserving the style of your games is relevant”, says the creator of Silent Hill. Finding the balance between the two will be crucial for studios such as Tango Gameworks, so they don’t become victims of trends and algorithms. Toyama’s approach offers a reminder that survival doesn’t mean giving up on the essence, but rather adapting and reinventing it within a recognizable framework.

Tango Gameworks: Finding the Balance Between Innovation and Identity

The recent closure of Tango Gameworks, a studio responsible for titles such as The Evil Within and Ghostwire: Tokyo, has sent shockwaves through the video game industry, sparking discussions regarding innovation, survival, and the ever-evolving landscape of game development. The closure has led many to reflect on the words of Keiichiro Toyama, legendary creator of Silent Hill, who believes that maintaining a core identity while strategically innovating is crucial for lasting success in this competitive market.

The Power of Identity: Learning from FromSoftware and Rockstar Games

In a recent interview, Toyama highlights FromSoftware, the studio behind the acclaimed Elden Ring, as a prime example of this philosophy in action. While titles such as Dark Souls, Bloodborne, and Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice differ in their settings and narratives, they share a distinct DNA that connects them as part of the studio’s unique identity. This shared core, characterized by challenging gameplay, intricate world building, and a focus on mastering combat mechanics, has been instrumental in FromSoftware’s continued success.

Similarly, Rockstar Games, known for its open world masterpieces like Grand Theft Auto and Red Dead Redemption, exemplifies the power of consistency in identity. Their games are renowned for their deep narratives, expansive open worlds, and compelling characters, creating a recognizable and highly successful formula that continues to resonate with players.

Tango Gameworks: Experimentation and Evolving Genre

In contrast to the consistent identities of FromSoftware and Rockstar Games, Tango Gameworks, despite the critical acclaim received by The Evil Within, ventured into diverse genres throughout its subsequent releases. Moving away from its horror roots, the studio delved into rhythm action with Hi-Fi Rush and a first-person action shooter featuring horror and exploration elements with Ghostwire: Tokyo. While these titles received positive reviews, they did not achieve the same commercial impact as their earlier horror offerings.

The Paradox of Innovation: Finding the Right Balance

The decision by Microsoft to close Tango Gameworks, along with other recent industry layoffs such as the closure of Arkane Austin, underscores the paradoxical nature of pursuing innovation. While experimentation and exploration of new horizons are essential for growth, the fierce competition within the gaming industry means that striking the right balance between innovation and preserving identity is crucial for long-term success.

Toyama emphasizes the importance of “finding the balance between routine and preserving the style of your games.” This balance involves understanding the core elements that define a studio’s identity and intelligently incorporating innovative ideas while remaining true to that foundation. Finding this balance can help studios like Tango Gameworks avoid becoming victims of fleeting trends while ensuring their work remains engaging and unique.

Lessons Learned: A Call for Strategic Innovation

The closure of Tango Gameworks serves as a poignant reminder that survival in the gaming industry is not merely regarding chasing the latest trends. It requires careful consideration of a studio’s strengths and identity, along with a thoughtful approach to innovation. While exploring new genres and pushing creative boundaries is important, studios must ensure that these ventures align with their core identity and offer a unique and compelling experience that resonates with players.

In summary, Tango Gameworks’ journey underscores the delicate dance between innovation and identity. Striving for success in the competitive landscape of video games requires strategic innovation and an understanding of what makes a studio’s work truly unique and enduring. By embracing a balance between evolution and preservation of identity, studios like Tango Gameworks can overcome the challenges of the industry and create games that leave a lasting impact.