Monkey Ball and Yakuza creator Toshihiro Nagoshi confirms his departure from Sega

Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, Sega’s development studio best known for its work on the Yakuza and the team responsible for this month’s Super Monkey Ball Banana Mania, have announced that they will be moving to a new structure.

The change sees studio head Toshihiro Nagoshi and producer Daisuke Sato leave the company, along with Sega, while producer Masayoshi Yokoyama becomes the new company director and executive producer. Hiroyuki Sakamoto was also promoted to Chief Producer, with Ryosuke Horii becoming Chief Director.

2021 marks the 10th anniversary of Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio. From the Yakuza series to the Judgment series and beyond, we sincerely appreciate everyone who has supported us and our efforts so far.

As we reach this 10 year milestone, Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio will move to a new structure. We will continue our mission to bring you the best entertainment through our games, so look forward to our bright future.

Nagoshi and Sato both left messages for studio fans on the company’s website. Nagoshi says, “As I leave SEGA, I am also leaving my position as studio director Ryu Ga Gotoku. Thanks to the fans who have supported us and the Yakuza series for many years. You have my most sincere and deep gratitude. . “

In August, it was reported that Nagoshi was set to leave Sega for Chinese video game giant NetEase, although neither Nagoshi nor Sato have officially revealed their future destinations so far.

As for Ryu Ga Gotoku, the studio is currently working on the next sequel to Yakuza: like a dragon, with the game being developed by producer Sakamoto and directors Horii, Ito and Mitake.