NetEase will stop financing Nagoshi Studio starting in May, according to a Bloomberg report. The decision significantly impacts the development of Gang of Dragon, the debut title from the studio founded by Yakuza creator Toshihiro Nagoshi.
The funding halt places the $44.4 million project in jeopardy. NetEase decided to cut funding after learning the game required that amount to reach completion, the report said. Nagoshi Studio is currently seeking new sponsors but has not found any yet.
Bloomberg confirmed the news with studio employees and a NetEase spokesperson. The report stated that the studio can continue the project independently but would be responsible for paying NetEase for costs associated with holding the brand or assets. NetEase began financing the studio following its founding in 2021.
Gang of Dragon is an action-adventure title set in Tokyo starring South Korean actor Ma Dong-Seok. A trailer for the game was released during The Game Awards in December 2025. This funding decision follows NetEase’s 2024 shutdown of Ouka Studio.
