I think a few scenarios are likely.
- He's joining NetEase like a lot of other big name Japanese developers lately.
- He's joining M-Two as Minami named it that because he wanted to partner with Mikami.
- He'll become a freelance consultant.
- He is retiring.
It's really sad to see him leave Tango though and him retiring would be really sad for the Japanese industry but he deserves the rest after a legendary career, I could see him joining another studio but I'm not sure in what capacity, he has said in the past that he wants to direct one last game before retirement so would he join a studio, direct one game and then leave?
Tango, I think will be in good hands, I could see John taking over, Mikami set up Tango with the goal of finding and nurturing new talent, Mikami's last directed title was The Evil Within 1 and he has said in interviews that he believes his best days are behind him, his focus now is helping others rather than being involved in development.
I think he has achieved that with Tango, John is a brilliant director and has just created Tango's highest scoring title ever, now is the best time to hand the reins over, after a highly successful launch, he can be happy with what he has helped achieve and know Tango is in good hands.
Last edited by Ryuu96 - on 23 February 2023
