Grasshopper Manufacture Splits From NetEase Games to Regain Independence
The studio parted ways with its parent company following discussions after the launch of Romeo is a Dead Man.
Japanese developer Grasshopper Manufacture is once again an independent studio after officially separating from NetEase Games on September 30, 2026. The split comes months after the release of Romeo is a Dead Man, which remains the only title the studio shipped during its tenure under the publisher.
Studio CEO Goichi Suda, known as Suda51, confirmed the separation in a statement, noting that the decision was reached amicably following thorough discussions and with NetEase Games' cooperation. According to GamesIndustry.biz, Suda explained that completing Romeo is a Dead Man prompted the team to evaluate its future, steering the developer toward self-publishing capabilities and an interest in tackling a wider range of styles.
NetEase Games acquired the developer behind No More Heroes and Shadows of the Damned from GungHo Online Entertainment in 2021 for an undisclosed sum. GamesIndustry.biz reported that Grasshopper Manufacture remains open to potential future partnerships with NetEase Games as it moves forward under independent ownership.
