Grasshopper Manufacture Splits from NetEase to Go Indie

Grasshopper Manufacture, the developers behind acclaimed games like No More Heroes and Killer7, have announced their split from NetEase, their parent company. The decision comes after NetEase acquired them in 2021 as part of the Gungho Online Entertainment acquisition. Now, Grasshopper Manufacture is going indie, aiming to deliver a wider variety of gaming experiences to their fans.

Founder Goichi “Suda51” Suda expressed their strong desire to create unique titles and cater to the diverse preferences of video game enthusiasts worldwide. The move reflects their commitment to innovation and creativity in game development.

While NetEase has not officially commented on the split, Grasshopper Manufacture’s decision to go independent may be driven by their goal to explore new creative opportunities and maintain full autonomy over their projects. This shift comes amidst NetEase’s recent financial decisions, including cutting back on funding for other studios.

Suda mentioned, “This decision was reached after thorough discussions with NetEase Games, and with their generous cooperation. We cherish the relationship we’ve built and look forward to potential future collaborations.”

With a focus on self-publishing and enhancing their game development capabilities, Grasshopper Manufacture is poised to continue creating unique and engaging titles that reflect their signature style and quality. They remain dedicated to delivering the “NO GAME NO LIFE” gaming experience that fans have come to expect.

Although Grasshopper Manufacture’s games may not appeal to everyone, their diverse portfolio, including titles like The Silver Case and Lollipop Chainsaw, showcases their creativity and originality. The studio’s latest release, Romeo is a Dead Man, has received positive feedback, highlighting their ability to blend different visual styles and storytelling elements effectively.

Regaining full autonomy as an independent studio is a significant milestone for Grasshopper Manufacture, allowing them to pursue their creative vision without external constraints. This move signifies a positive shift in the gaming industry, where studios have the freedom to explore new ideas and push boundaries.

Grasshopper Manufacture’s commitment to delivering unique and innovative gaming experiences is evident in their latest projects. As they embrace their independence, fans can expect more exciting and unconventional titles that continue to push the boundaries of game development.