The development of Gang of Dragon could encounter significant difficulties. According to a report published by Bloomberg, NetEase is considering withdrawing part of its funding from the project developed by Nagoshi Studio.
This decision would be linked to the significant increase in the budget necessary to finalize the game. Available information indicates that the project would need significant additional funding to reach its final phase of production.
NetEase reportedly considering cutting funding
Nagoshi Studio employees were reportedly informed that NetEase was considering reducing its financial support for the project. According to published information, the development of Gang of Dragon would require approximately seven billion additional yen to complete. This amount represents approximately $44.4 million.
Faced with this increase in the budget, NetEase has reportedly begun to reassess the financial viability of the project. The game’s creator, Toshihiro Nagoshi, is currently seeking new funding to continue development. For the moment, no solution has yet been found.
A project announced during the Game Awards 2025
Gang of Dragon was first presented to the public during the Game Awards in December 2025. The game takes place in the Kabukicho district, located in the Shinjuku district of Tokyo. Players take on the role of Shin Ji-seong, a character played by South Korean actor Ma Dong-seok.
This character is introduced as an important member of a Korean crime syndicate operating in the neighborhood. During the story, he finds himself involved in a conflict between several gangs. The game’s storyline also focuses on human relationships and the personal choices of the protagonist.
The new project from the creator of Yakuza
Toshihiro Nagoshi is best known for leading the famous Yakuza franchise for many years. After leaving Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio in 2021, he decided to start his own development team. Nagoshi Studio was founded the following year with the goal of producing games for consoles. The studio has also indicated that it wants to distribute its productions globally. Gang of Dragon represents the studio’s first major project since its creation.
The future of the project remains uncertain
As of yet, no official decision regarding the future of the game has been announced. The search for additional funding could allow the project to continue its development. However, if NetEase confirms its partial withdrawal, Nagoshi Studio will probably have to find new partners to bring the project to fruition. The next few weeks could therefore be decisive for the future of Gang of Dragon.