New Studio Launches from Visions of Mana Co-Director Kenji Ozawa
On March 3, 2025, Kenji Ozawa, a co-director of the recently launched Visions of Mana, announced the establishment of his new game development studio, Studio Sasanqua. The initiative aims to protect game creators and ensure they do not encounter the same fate as Ouka Studios, which was abruptly closed by NetEase shortly after the release of Visions of Mana.
Background on Visions of Mana and Ouka Studios
Released over 15 years after its predecessor, Visions of Mana represents the latest installment in Square Enix’s celebrated Mana series. While Square Enix handled publication, the development was entrusted to Ouka Studios, a subsidiary of NetEase. Unfortunately, in a surprising move, NetEase dismantled Ouka Studios during the same week that the RPG made its debut, reflecting the company’s strategy to reduce investments in Japanese game development.
The Role of Responsible Management
Following Ouka Studios’ dissolution, one of the game’s co-directors found a new position at Square Enix. Seven months later, Kenji Ozawa has taken a proactive step by launching Studio Sasanqua. In an insightful interview with Automaton, he emphasized the importance of management in safeguarding creators. Ozawa pointed out that when management decisions lead to negative outcomes, the blame often falls unjustly on the developers, who may have had no input in those choices. He is committed to accepting full responsibility for management decisions at his new studio.
The Future of the Mana Series
“Today, I’m excited to share that I’ve founded Studio Sasanqua to support and protect game creators. We’re here to foster creativity and innovation without the fear of mishandled management decisions.” — Kenji Ozawa/STUDIO SASANQUA Inc.(@KenjitheEMO) March 3, 2025
The implications of this shift in studio dynamics raise questions about the future trajectory of the Mana series. Square Enix had previously announced plans to bolster their portfolio by investing more in iconic intellectual properties and AAA titles like Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest, while also supporting smaller projects. Recently, CEO Takashi Kiryu reaffirmed their intent to continue producing mid-sized games, the classification in which the Mana series sits.
Wider Implications for NetEase
Ouka Studios’ closure is not an isolated incident; it signals a broader trend at NetEase. Reports indicate that the company has laid off a team from Marvel Rivals, despite the game’s substantial commercial success. Additionally, there are discussions about potential sales of some of its studios, with the risk that if buyers are not located, these studios may also face closure before they can release any games.
While Studio Sasanqua marks a hopeful beginning for Kenji Ozawa and his vision of a creator-centric environment, the gaming landscape continues to evolve with challenges facing studios under larger corporate umbrellas. The future of beloved franchises, including the Mana series, remains uncertain amidst these industry shifts.
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