New '.hack//Z.E.R.O.' Game Announced for 30th Anniversary

CyberConnect2 is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a new game called .hack//Z.E.R.O. This game will be made and sold by CyberConnect2. It is for consoles and will be easy for new players to enjoy.
By Newsroom | .hack Series, Gaming |

CyberConnect2 has revealed .hack//Z.E.R.O., a new installment in the long-running .hack series, to mark the studio's 30th anniversary. Notably, this title is developed and self-published by CyberConnect2, a departure from previous entries where Bandai Namco Entertainment was involved. This move signifies CyberConnect2's full control over the project, a status they have reportedly been seeking for nearly a decade. The game is slated for a console release, though specific platforms remain unannounced.

CyberConnect2 unveils .hack//Z.E.R.O. for the studio's 30th anniversary, Bandai Namco not involved - 1

The announcement, coinciding with the studio's milestone anniversary, aims to revitalize the franchise. While the game is set within the established .hack universe, developers have assured that new players will be able to enjoy .hack//Z.E.R.O. without prior knowledge of the series' lore. This approach is intended to broaden the game's appeal.

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CyberConnect2 unveils .hack//Z.E.R.O. for the studio's 30th anniversary, Bandai Namco not involved - 2

Key Details of .hack//Z.E.R.O.

  • Developer & Publisher: CyberConnect2 Co., Ltd.

  • Anniversary Project: Celebrates CyberConnect2's 30th anniversary.

  • Series Connection: Set in the same universe as previous .hack games.

  • Accessibility: Designed for both veteran fans and newcomers.

  • Genre: Described as an action RPG with adventure elements.

  • Music: Features original music composed by renowned violinist Taro Hakase.

  • Development Duration: CyberConnect2 has stated they have been trying to develop this game for nearly ten years.

  • Platform: Confirmed for console release; specific platforms are yet to be detailed.

  • Independence: CyberConnect2 has obtained full permission from Bandai Namco Entertainment to manage this project independently.

Historical Context of the .hack Series

The .hack series has a complex history, characterized by its transmedia storytelling across games, anime, and manga. The universe centers around "The World," a fictional MMORPG within the narrative. Previous installments include the original PlayStation 2 quadrilogy, the .hack//G.U. trilogy, and spin-offs like the fighting game .hack//Versus. The announcement of .hack//Z.E.R.O. marks a potential new beginning for the franchise, as it is stated to be unconnected to previous entries in terms of narrative.

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CyberConnect2 unveils .hack//Z.E.R.O. for the studio's 30th anniversary, Bandai Namco not involved - 3

Developer's Vision and Strategic Shift

CyberConnect2's decision to self-publish .hack//Z.E.R.O. is a significant strategic shift. This allows the studio direct control over the development and distribution process, potentially leading to a more cohesive creative vision. Executive Producer Hiroshi Matsuyama has emphasized that the game will offer a novel RPG experience, blending the series' signature duality of fantasy and reality with modern gaming expectations. The involvement of Taro Hakase in composing the music further underscores the project's ambition to deliver a unique artistic experience.

CyberConnect2 unveils .hack//Z.E.R.O. for the studio's 30th anniversary, Bandai Namco not involved - 4

Team and Creative Direction

The project has a dedicated team, with Hiroshi Matsuyama serving as Executive Producer. Other key staff announced include Seiichiro Hosokawa for Character Design, Akihiro Anai as Creative Producer and Art Division General Manager, and Hiroto Niizato as Creative Director. This indicates a deliberate effort to bring experienced talent to bear on this new chapter for the .hack franchise.

Independence and Future Implications

The explicit mention that Bandai Namco Entertainment has granted CyberConnect2 full permission to manage .hack//Z.E.R.O. independently is crucial. This arrangement suggests a formalized agreement that empowers CyberConnect2 to drive the franchise forward on its own terms. This move could set a precedent for future collaborations or independent projects within the industry.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is .hack//Z.E.R.O.?
It is a new game in the .hack series made by CyberConnect2 to celebrate their 30th year.
Q: Who is making the game?
CyberConnect2 is making and publishing the game by themselves.
Q: Is this game only for people who played .hack before?
No, the game is made so that new players can enjoy it too.
Q: What kind of game is it?
It is an action role-playing game with adventure parts.
Q: When will it come out?
The game is planned for consoles, but they have not said which ones or when.