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According to Noisy Pixel, CyberConnect2, the developer behind the popular .hack series, has revealed that they have new concepts and ideas for future installments of the franchise.
The Vice President of CyberConnect2 stated in a recent interview that the team is enthusiastic about revisiting the .hack universe, but they are currently waiting for the green light from Bandai Namco, the publisher and rights holder of the series.
“Within CyberConnect2, the topic of a new .hack is constantly in the background. However, we need the cooperation of Bandai Namco, the publisher. We have ideas, and if we get the okay, we would love to move forward.” – Taichiro Miyazaki, Executive Vice President of CyberConnect2
The .hack series, which combines elements of action RPGs and MMOs within a fictional online game setting, has garnered a dedicated fanbase since its debut in the early 2000s. Despite the last major release being several years ago, interest in the series remains strong, with fans eagerly anticipating new developments.
The .hack series, starting in 2002 with .hack//Infection, swiftly developed a dedicated fanbase thanks to its unique concept and captivating story. The initial four games, along with the subsequent G.U. series, explored the enigmatic world of The World, a fictional MMORPG that blends virtual and real-life elements. Players assumed the roles of Kite and later Haseo, uncovering dark secrets and confronting digital dangers with real-world repercussions.
The latest entry in the .hack series is .hack//G.U. Last Recode, released in November 2017. This collection includes remastered versions of the three original .hack//G.U. games—Rebirth, Reminisce, and Redemption—along with a brand-new fourth volume titled Reconnection.
The remastered games feature enhanced graphics, improved gameplay mechanics, and additional content, providing both longtime fans and newcomers with a comprehensive .hack//G.U. experience. Since then, there have been no new mainline entries in the .hack series, but the remaster has helped keep the franchise in the spotlight.
CyberConnect2 has expressed their commitment to the franchise and their hope that Bandai Namco will approve the development of new games. In the meantime, fans continue to express their support and anticipation for the potential revival of the .hack series.
