CyberConnect2 is developing .hack//Z.E.R.O. as its first self-published entry in the series, while the franchise remains visible through the 20th anniversary of .hack//G.U. and an exhibition tour.
CyberConnect2 is preparing to bring the .hack franchise back under its own control. The studio's first self-published entry in the series, .hack//Z.E.R.O., was discussed by vice-president Taichirō Miyazaki in an interview at Anime Expo 2026. He described the move into self-publishing as a response to the challenges of being a licensed-game developer, and positioned .hack//Z.E.R.O. as a key part of the studio's C5 initiative, alongside two other titles, Cecile and Tokyo Ogre Gate.
President Hiroshi Matsuyama offered the first substantive comments on the new action RPG at a talk event during CyberConnect2's 30th anniversary exhibition in Tokyo in late June 2026. He framed .hack//Z.E.R.O. as a modern take on the franchise rather than a nostalgia play. The exhibition, which kicked off in Tokyo on June 27-28, will tour all 47 prefectures of Japan.
The franchise's legacy remains active. CyberConnect2 marked the 20th anniversary of .hack//G.U. on May 18, 2026, with a new commemorative illustration by character designer Seiichiro Hosokawa featuring the Eight Phases, and a multi-mat and B1 panel display tied to the exhibition. The anniversary rollout keeps the franchise visible as the studio prepares its next entry.
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In an interview at Anime Expo 2026, CyberConnect2 vice-president Taichirō Miyazaki discussed the studio's move into self-publishing, the upcoming .hack//Z.E.R.O. as its first self-published entry in the series, and the status of two other C5 initiative titles, Cecile and Tokyo Ogre Gate.