Visions of Mana Director Leaves NetEase for Square Enix

Ryosuke Yoshida, Visions of Mana Director, Moves from NetEase to Square Enix

This surprising industry shift sees Ryosuke Yoshida, director of Visions of Mana and former Capcom game designer, transition from NetEase to Square Enix. The announcement, made via Yoshida's Twitter (X) account on December 2nd, leaves many details regarding his departure from Ouka Studios unanswered.

Yoshida's Future at Square Enix Remains Unclear

Yoshida played a pivotal role in the development of Visions of Mana, a successful title featuring enhanced graphics, developed in collaboration with Capcom and Bandai Namco personnel at Ouka Studios. His departure follows the game's August 30th, 2024 release. While his move to Square Enix in December is confirmed, the specific projects he'll be involved in remain undisclosed.

NetEase's Retrenchment in Japan

Yoshida's departure aligns with NetEase's reported scaling back of investments in Japanese studios. A Bloomberg article (August 30th) highlighted NetEase and Tencent's decision to curtail losses after several successful collaborations with Japanese developers. Ouka Studios, Yoshida's former employer, has been significantly affected, with NetEase reportedly downsizing its Tokyo workforce.

This strategic shift reflects both companies' focus on the revitalized Chinese gaming market, exemplified by the success of Black Myth: Wukong, a recipient of prestigious awards including Best Visual Design and Ultimate Game of the Year at the 2024 Golden Joystick Awards.

The move contrasts sharply with the 2020 strategy of both NetEase and Tencent to invest heavily in Japan amidst a period of stagnation in the Chinese market. However, apparent friction between these large companies and smaller Japanese developers – differing priorities regarding global market expansion versus IP control – seems to have influenced this recent change in approach.

While not entirely withdrawing from Japan, given their established relationships with Capcom and Bandai Namco, NetEase and Tencent are adopting a more cautious strategy, aiming to minimize losses and capitalize on the resurgence of the Chinese gaming industry.