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Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Grasshopper Manufacture says it became independent of NetEase Games on October 1, 2026. Its announcement calls NetEase its former parent, but does not name Grasshopper’s current shareholders or confirm the final composition of its board. The studio says the move gives it more publishing options and room to pursue a wider variety of game styles.
Who owns Grasshopper Manufacture now?
Grasshopper’s September 30, 2026 announcement says the studio’s separation from NetEase Games took effect October 1. It describes the change as moving forward “as an independent developer once again.” That establishes that Grasshopper is no longer a NetEase subsidiary, but it does not disclose who owns its shares after the separation. The statement also says procedures, including changes to board members, were still underway when it was issued. WorthPlaying reproduces the statement signed by Goichi Suda, Representative Director & CEO.
“Independent” describes the studio’s separation from its former parent and its future operating and publishing options. It is not, by itself, a disclosure of the legal mechanics, share ownership, sale price, or completed corporate structure. The announcement does not identify new shareholders.
How Grasshopper’s relationship with NetEase changed
| Period | What the sources establish |
|---|---|
| Before the 2021 acquisition | Grasshopper Manufacture describes itself as an interactive entertainment software company established in 1998 and identifies Goichi Suda as CEO and game designer. Grasshopper’s company page. |
| 2021–September 2026 | NetEase announced in 2021 that Grasshopper would join NetEase Games under an equity transfer agreement signed May 31, 2021. The companies said NetEase would advise on business planning and provide development funding, while Grasshopper would lead creative work and production. NetEase’s 2024 Form 20-F later described Grasshopper as acquired in 2021. NetEase’s 2021 announcement; NetEase’s 2024 Form 20-F. |
| From October 1, 2026 | Grasshopper says it is independent of NetEase. The studio says it has improved its self-publishing know-how and has a broader range of publishing options; it does not state the post-separation funding arrangements or name a new publisher. Grasshopper’s statement, reproduced by WorthPlaying. |
The 2021 description explains the arrangement the companies announced at the time; it should not be treated as proof of the precise control or funding arrangements in effect in 2026.
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What independence means for Grasshopper’s games
More publishing routes, not a named new publisher
Grasshopper says it learned more about self-publishing during its NetEase period and now has a broader range of publishing options. That points to greater flexibility over how future games might reach players, but the announcement does not name a new publisher, distribution deal, financing source, or specific self-publishing plan.
A stated interest in a wider range of styles
The studio links the decision to completing ROMEO IS A DEAD MAN and considering its future. It says it wants to offer titles in a wider variety of styles while continuing to make distinctive games in its own signature flavor. This is the studio’s stated direction, not a detailed announcement of its next projects.
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Cooperation with NetEase remains possible
Suda said the decision followed “thorough discussions” with NetEase and its “generous cooperation.” Grasshopper also said it values the relationship and would welcome collaboration again if an opportunity arises. The separation therefore does not amount to an announced ban on future business with NetEase.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Why ROMEO IS A DEAD MAN matters to the timing
Grasshopper’s September 2026 statement says ROMEO IS A DEAD MAN released in February 2026 and notes the studio celebrated its 28th anniversary in March. Xbox Wire’s February 9, 2026 interview identified it as a Grasshopper game and listed an Xbox Series X|S release date of February 11, 2026. Xbox Wire’s interview and product listing. The game is relevant context for the studio’s announcement, but those sources do not establish a physical Xbox edition or a retailer listing.
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Grasshopper Manufacture at a glance
- Grasshopper says it was established in 1998 and has developed more than 25 home-console titles. These are the company’s own figures. Grasshopper’s company page.
- NetEase’s 2024 filing described it as a Tokyo-based, console-focused developer with more than 20 years’ experience and over 25 games. NetEase’s 2024 Form 20-F.
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