Yoko Taro, the eccentric and beloved creator behind NieR: Automata, recently spoke at the Korean video game convention G-CON 2025, addressing fan concerns about his level of activity. While many joke that he isn’t doing any work, Taro clarified that he’s been busy with multiple projects—it’s just that many were cancelled before reaching completion or public release.
During a discussion panel alongside Bayonetta director Hideki Kamiya, Taro described how several of his recent projects never “ended up seeing the light of day.” He explained that despite the cancellations, he got paid for his work and is personally okay with it. However, fans who don’t see new releases often assume he’s inactive.
He shared a philosophy of preferring to fail several times on ambitious or “weird” projects instead of releasing multiple lackluster works. “I don’t view that as a negative thing,” he said. “I believe that if I’m going to release something weird, I’d be better off not releasing anything at all.”
Beyond game development, Taro has kept busy with various creative endeavors. He was involved as creative director in the “Voice of Cards” series—three tabletop RPG-inspired games released in recent years—and contributed to several Square Enix-published mobile games. He’s also written books, worked on TV projects, and penned multiple NieR-related stage plays.
While many fans eagerly await a new Japanese action RPG or a direct NieR sequel to celebrate the franchise’s upcoming 10th anniversary, Taro’s comments suggest that his creative journey continues even through unpredictable cancellations and shifting production plans.
Though there’s no official confirmation about a new NieR title in the near future, the creator’s insistence on experimental work and personal artistic standards implies that when something new does arrive, it will be thoughtfully crafted and true to his unique vision.
FAQs
Is Yoko Taro currently working on new games?
Yes, he has been involved in several projects recently, but many of these have been cancelled before release.
Why have many of Yoko Taro’s recent projects been cancelled?
The reasons are unspecified, but cancellations are often due to business decisions or development challenges typical in the industry.
Has Yoko Taro stopped creating content outside of games?
No, he’s also written books, worked on TV shows, and created stage plays related to the NieR franchise.
When can we expect a new NieR game?
There is no confirmed release date, but fans anticipate something around the 10th anniversary of NieR: Automata in 2027.
What is Yoko Taro’s creative philosophy?
He prefers to focus on creating unique, “weird” projects even if some fail or never get released, rather than producing average works that lack innovation.
Conclusion
Yoko Taro remains a vital creative force in the game industry, quietly working on ambitious and experimental projects even when they don’t reach players. His recent comments underscore the challenges of game development and the patience required to deliver truly unique experiences.
Fans hoping for new NieR adventures can take comfort that Taro’s artistic spirit remains active, and the wait for his next major release, while uncertain, promises something authentic and unconventional.