# Grasshopper Manufacture independence from NetEase Games

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/grasshopper-manufacture-independence-from-netease-games
> Updated: 2026-10-04T20:06:29.000Z. Sources: 15. Developments: 2.

Tokyo-based video game developer Grasshopper Manufacture, led by Goichi ‘Suda51’ Suda, announced its independence from NetEase Games effective October 1, 2026. The studio, which was acquired by NetEase from GungHo Online Entertainment in 2021, stated the move follows the release of ‘Romeo Is A Dead Man’ and its 28th anniversary.

The studio intends to return to its roots as an independent developer to pursue a wider variety of gaming styles and utilize diverse distribution options. Both Grasshopper Manufacture and NetEase Games described the separation as an amicable process reached through thorough discussions, noting they maintain a positive relationship and remain open to future collaborations.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-04: Grasshopper Manufacture regains independence from NetEase Games

Grasshopper Manufacture has returned to independence after splitting from NetEase Games, while reports suggest Nagoshi Studio may have closed following funding issues.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/grasshopper-manufacture-regains-independence-from-netease-games

### 2026-09-30: Grasshopper Manufacture to become independent from NetEase Games

Grasshopper Manufacture, led by Goichi Suda, will become an independent developer again on October 1, 2026, following its separation from parent company NetEase Games.

13 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/grasshopper-manufacture-to-become-independent-from-netease-games

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Cite as: Grasshopper Manufacture independence from NetEase Games. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/grasshopper-manufacture-independence-from-netease-games