**Takahisa Taura Leaves PlatinumGames: A Fresh Chapter for the *Astral Chain* Director?**

PlatinumGames, the illustrious Japanese game developer known for legendary titles like *Bayonetta*, *NieR: Automata*, and *Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance*, seems to be experiencing a significant transition. The latest news? Takahisa Taura, the director behind the critically praised *Astral Chain*, has allegedly exited the studio. This news has ignited discussions about the future of PlatinumGames and Taura’s forthcoming endeavors in the gaming world.

### **The Exit of a Trailblazer**

Speculation regarding Taura’s exit began circulating a few weeks back, but new developments have substantiated these rumors. As revealed by *Video Games Chronicle (VGC)*, Taura has modified his personal Facebook profile to indicate a new employer: “Eel Game Studio.” This studio, according to Japanese corporate registration records, is a newly formed entity. Although details are limited, the timing implies that Taura may be one of its key founders or integral to its establishment.

Taura’s departure signifies the conclusion of a notable chapter at PlatinumGames. Throughout his tenure, he played a part in some of the studio’s most acclaimed projects. He worked as a designer on *Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance* and *The Wonderful 101*, and was instrumental in the joint effort to develop *NieR: Automata* and *NieR Replicant* with Square Enix. Nevertheless, his most significant accomplishment was directing *Astral Chain*, a Nintendo Switch exclusive that gained cult status following its 2019 release.

### **The Impact of *Astral Chain* and Its Uncertain Path Ahead**

*Astral Chain* stood out as a remarkable title for PlatinumGames, merging stylish action mechanics with a distinctive cyberpunk aesthetic and a dual-character combat system. Despite its popularity, the game has not yet seen a sequel or spinoff. Recent whispers indicate that *Astral Chain 2* has been mired in developmental stagnation for years, with Nintendo reportedly restarting the project at one point. Though these claims remain unconfirmed, Taura’s exit brings into question the future of the franchise. Without its original director guiding it, the chances of seeing a continuation of *Astral Chain* seem increasingly doubtful.

### **A Series of Exits at PlatinumGames**

Taura’s departure isn’t a singular event. PlatinumGames has witnessed a series of prominent exits in recent times, hinting at possible internal issues. The most prominent was Hideki Kamiya, the famed creator of *Devil May Cry* and co-founder of PlatinumGames. Kamiya departed the studio in 2023 to form Clover Games, citing a lack of trust as the main factor behind his leave. He is now reportedly teaming up with Capcom on *Okami 2*.

In December 2024, the director of *Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon* also confirmed their exit from PlatinumGames, subsequently joining PlayStation Studios. These departures, alongside Taura’s, illustrate a studio in transition, raising worries about its capacity to secure top talent and sustain its creative drive.

### **What Lies Ahead for PlatinumGames?**

Despite these obstacles, PlatinumGames is pressing on with its upcoming endeavors. The studio is currently developing *Ninja Gaiden 4*, in collaboration with Koei Tecmo and Microsoft. While the announcement of a new *Ninja Gaiden* installment has stirred excitement, the departures of key creative talents like Taura and Kamiya could influence the studio’s ability to deliver the groundbreaking gameplay experiences it is known for.

### **The Emergence of Eel Game Studio**

Regarding Taura, his association with Eel Game Studio hints at a new phase in his career. While the studio’s focus and projects are still under wraps, Taura’s history of producing high-quality, genre-defining games has already generated enthusiasm. If Eel Game Studio is indeed his creation, it could evolve into a new innovative force within the industry, reminiscent of what PlatinumGames represented when it was established by former Clover Studio developers in 2006.

### **A Crucial Moment for the Industry**

Takahisa Taura’s exit from PlatinumGames signifies more than just a change in personnel—it reflects the evolving dynamics within the gaming industry. As seasoned developers venture out on their own in pursuit of new creative paths, established studios like PlatinumGames must evolve to retain talent and remain competitive in an ever-challenging market.

For enthusiasts of *Astral Chain*, *NieR: Automata*, and other classic titles from PlatinumGames, this moment carries bittersweet sentiments. While the prospect of what Taura and Eel Game Studio might produce is thrilling, it also highlights the uncertainty regarding PlatinumGames’ trajectory. One fact remains clear: both Taura and PlatinumGames will continue to be pivotal names as the gaming landscape shifts.