Visions of Mana Director Ryosuke Yoshida Departs NetEase for Square Enix
In a surprising move, Visions of Mana director and renowned game designer Ryosuke Yoshida has left NetEase to join Square Enix. Yoshida confirmed this transition on his Twitter (X) account on December 2. As one of the key figures behind the highly anticipated Mana series installment, Visions of Mana, Yoshida played a pivotal role in revitalizing the franchise with updated visuals and innovative gameplay mechanics. The game was officially launched on August 30, 2024, earning widespread acclaim. Shortly after its release, Yoshida announced his exit from Ouka Studios, where he had been instrumental in the project.
Yoshida expressed excitement about his new chapter with Square Enix, though details regarding his exact role or upcoming projects remain undisclosed. His contributions to the gaming world, particularly in revamping classic franchises, are expected to bring fresh perspectives to Square Enix's diverse portfolio.
NetEase's Strategic Retreat from Japanese Studios
This development follows NetEase's broader decision to scale back its investments in Japanese studios. According to a Bloomberg report published on August 30, both NetEase and its competitor Tencent have decided to reassess their ventures in Japan due to diminishing returns. Ouka Studios, home to Yoshida and Visions of Mana, has been significantly impacted by these changes. NetEase has downsized its operations in Tokyo, leaving only a skeleton crew behind.
These moves align with both companies' efforts to refocus resources toward revitalizing the Chinese gaming market. Recent successes, such as Black Myth: Wukong, which garnered prestigious accolades including Best Visual Design and Ultimate Game of the Year at the 2024 Golden Joystick Awards, underscore the potential of domestic innovation.
Friction Between Global Giants and Local Developers
The shift also highlights growing tensions between international conglomerates and Japanese developers. While NetEase and Tencent seek to expand franchises globally, Japanese studios prioritize maintaining control over their intellectual property. Despite this divergence, neither company plans to abandon Japan entirely. Their enduring partnerships with major studios like Capcom and Bandai Namco ensure continued collaboration. Nevertheless, these recent adjustments reflect a cautious approach aimed at minimizing financial risks while positioning themselves strategically for future opportunities within the thriving Chinese gaming landscape.
