Yoko Taro Speaks Out On Why He Hasn’t Released a Game Recently

Yoko Taro, acclaimed director of NieR: Automata, as well as the Drakengard series, has been quiet about new games ever since the conclusion of the Voice of Cards series. With fans clamoring for new releases, many have noted that things have been quiet for a while. Now, at G-Con 2025, Yoko Taro was part of a panel, and has addressed this concern directly.

Firstly, Taro himself jokingly recognized that “Yoko Taro doesn’t do any work” has become a joke amongst fans. However, he then dispelled speculation around his future in the industry by stating that he has been busy on projects.

The reason that none of these projects have become public knowledge is simply because they’ve been canceled midway. Taro did not specify any further details in regards to the cancellations. However, it is clear that it involves multiple projects.

“I often get told stuff like ‘Why aren’t you making a new sequel to NieR’ or ‘Yoko Taro isn’t doing anything,’ but that’s because recently, a lot of projects I was involved in got discontinued midway through development. I’ve actually been working on some stuff, it’s just that it never ended up seeing the light of day. I got paid for it, so I personally have no issues with that, but people seem to think that I haven’t been doing anything just because none of the work I’ve done is being released”

Taro did joke that he was fine with it because he was paid for the efforts, but he also remained optimistic. He stated that he was playing with the decisions because he doesn’t mind failing a few times in order to make a good game.

“I believe that if I’m going to release something weird, I’d be better off not releasing anything at all.”

Whilst many fans may be disappointed at the lack of new titles, others will be reassured that Yoko Taro is taking his time to make a quality new title that will live up to his reputation.

So, what do you think Yoko Taro should make next? Feel free to comment your thoughts below.