Goichi Suda's studio has departed from NetEase
Five years ago, NetEase acquired Grasshopper Manufacture, a studio by Japanese game development veteran Goichi Suda, known for titles such as Lollipop Chainsaw and No More Heroes. Now, it has once again set the team free to go independent.
Romeo is a Dead Man
According to Suda, the decision to part ways was made shortly after completing work on the action game Romeo is a Dead Man, which debuted in February. He stated that the studio realized it could release games in a broader range of styles as an independent developer. Moreover, Grasshopper Manufacture has improved its skills in self-publishing over the past few years and no longer requires support from NetEase.
Suda emphasized that Grasshopper Manufacture maintains positive relations with NetEase despite the split. The studio also does not rule out the possibility of future collaborations if the opportunity arises.
Interestingly, NetEase itself decided to divest several of its gaming assets, primarily Western ones. Notably, it shut down Jar of Sparks, Fantastic Pixel Castle, Jackalyptic Games, and many other teams. Whether this practice influenced the separation from Grasshopper Manufacture remains unclear.