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 his Twitter (X) account on December 2nd, leaves many questioning his future role.

Yoshida's New Role Remains Undisclosed

While Yoshida's departure from Ouka Studios (a NetEase subsidiary) lacks specific details, his contributions to Visions of Mana are undeniable. Collaborating with talent from Capcom and Bandai Namco, he spearheaded the development of the game's visually impressive and successful launch on August 30, 2024. His move to Square Enix, also announced on December 2nd, is met with excitement, though the specifics of his projects remain undisclosed.

NetEase's Shifting Focus Impacts Japanese Investments

Yoshida's departure aligns with NetEase's reported scaling back of investments in Japanese studios. A Bloomberg article from August 30th highlights NetEase and Tencent's decision to curtail losses following several successful game releases through Japanese partnerships. Ouka Studios is directly impacted, with NetEase significantly reducing its Tokyo workforce.

This strategic shift reflects NetEase's and Tencent's refocus on the resurgent Chinese market, demanding a reallocation of resources. The success of Black Myth: Wukong, a recipient of awards such as Best Visual Design and Ultimate Game of the Year at the 2024 Golden Joystick Awards, underscores this renewed emphasis.

The two companies' 2020 investment in Japan, a response to China's then-stagnant gaming market, appears to have encountered challenges. Reported friction between these large entertainment companies and smaller Japanese developers, stemming from differing priorities in global market reach versus IP control, likely contributed to this strategic recalibration.

While not abandoning their Japanese presence entirely – particularly given strong relationships with Capcom and Bandai Namco – NetEase and Tencent are adopting a more conservative approach, minimizing losses and preparing for the anticipated growth of the Chinese gaming industry.