Shinji Mikami Establishes Unbound Games, Kicking Off with an Original AAA Title
Shinji Mikami, the acclaimed creator behind iconic series like Resident Evil and Devil May Cry, has officially launched a new studio called Unbound Games. Operational since May 2023, the studio has confirmed it is actively developing its inaugural project: an original high-end AAA title. This highly anticipated game is slated for release on PlayStation 5, Xbox platforms, and PC, and will leverage the advanced capabilities of Unreal Engine 5.
Studio Establishment and Leadership
Unbound Games was founded in 2022, with its operations commencing in May 2023. Shinji Mikami, who departed Tango Gameworks earlier in 2023, leads the new venture as its representative director. Joining him is Masato Kimura, a seasoned producer known for his work on Ghostwire: Tokyo and a previous collaboration with Mikami on the critically acclaimed Hi-Fi Rush.
The Debut Project: An Original AAA Title
The studio's initial endeavor is an original, high-end AAA intellectual property designed to captivate discerning consumers. This ambitious title is being crafted with Unreal Engine 5, promising cutting-edge visuals and performance. It is confirmed for a multi-platform release on PlayStation 5, Xbox consoles, and PC.
Development Philosophy and Team Synergy
In February 2025, producer Masato Kimura shed light on Unbound Games' unique development philosophy. The studio aims for "AAA quality and AA content," acknowledging the challenges of matching the sheer scale and budget of some massive overseas AAA productions.
"Unbound Games aims for 'AAA quality and AA content.'"
Kimura emphasized the studio's focus on delivering a rich, immersive gaming experience within a more focused scope. The team comprises experienced individuals who have contributed to renowned game series such as Silent Hill, Resident Evil, Shadow of the Colossus, and Hi-Fi Rush. Unbound Games fosters a flexible development environment that actively encourages trial and error. Prior to establishing Unbound Games, Mikami himself had expressed a keen interest in directing one more major video game project, hinting that his creative visions extend beyond the horror genre he is famously associated with.
Growth and Future Vision
Unbound Games currently employs approximately 50 individuals but has ambitious plans to significantly expand its workforce to around 150. The studio's comprehensive mission statement outlines a commitment to developing a diverse range of projects.
The studio's mission: developing "original high-end consumer games to large-scale AAA titles and challenging smaller titles."
Looking ahead, Unbound Games intends to simultaneously develop smaller-scale titles alongside its larger AAA productions, showcasing a versatile and dynamic approach to game creation.