Mihoko Takahashi

What you do at Tango?

I’m on the Environment Design team. I create and place background models based on the concept or design art, and set up the collision in the environments. Occasionally I assist in creating levels, but basically I set up the lighting, adjust post-process effects and optimize everything that creates the final ‘look’ of our game. I also create environment design spec sheets based on the content of a given project.

How do you describe Tango’s development environment?

We have extremely flexible work hours, and we can also work from home, which is perfect for achieving the right work-life balance to fit your personal schedule. I feel that Tango really respects the personal lives of their employees.

What do you think makes Tango unique as a game studio?

In my previous workplaces, we were always told in advance what exactly we should make and where, and it was rare to go beyond your assigned tasks. But at Tango it’s up to you to be creative and express what you want to create, and that requires each one of us to become more involved with our games. We frequently work closely with other sections, so self-management skills become important, too.

What are your thoughts about the type of people who work at Tango?

This team really surprises me with their creativity; they come up with ideas that I would never have considered! And, at times, it reminds me that I need to broaden my horizons more. Everybody is supportive, and I can always count on my team members if I need to talk about something. I learn a lot from talking with the team, and we always inspire each other.

Looking to the future, what are you excited for when working at Tango?

I hope that we can release new IP regularly and become a studio that’s known for always coming up with something new and refreshing. I’m looking forward to the iconic characters of our future games, and it’d be fun if we could create merchandise and spin-offs about them!

What’s something you’d like to tell someone interested in the company or working with your team?

I’m originally from the cinematic field, but one day I was unexpectedly given the opportunity to work on game development. I was immediately drawn into environment design: it’s fun to create a whole new universe that can be viewed from any angle. From that experience, I decided to work in the gaming industry. Environment design is satisfying because you’re involved in the narrative, and your creations fill most of the player’s screen. We have a crucial role in world building, and I’m honored to be a part of it.