Gaming developer Arc System Works reports hack, data breach
Learn More
Arc System Works, a Japanese video game developer known for fighting games like Guilty Gear, is reporting a data breach affecting their internal systems. The security incident has resulted in the unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information about upcoming games and unreleased hardware specifications for Nintendo's next console.
The developer reports to users that as of May 12, they "have not confirmed the leak of any user personal information or player account information due to the unauthorized access." Apparently the breach was limited to internal development data rather than customer information.
According to reports from multiple gaming news outlets, the data breach exposed:
- A development build of Guilty Gear Strive containing all remaining Season 4 characters, new moves, and what appears to be the complete Season 5 character lineup;
- Details about three different game formats for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 console: digital download only, "Game Key-Card" (a hybrid physical/digital format), and a 64 GB physical game cartridge;
- Information about a previously unannounced Arc System Works game with the codename "Watari" reportedly in development for the Nintendo Switch 2, with a tentative release date of November 25.
The nature of the attack is not disclosed.
Arc System Works stated they are working with external cybersecurity experts to investigate the breach, determine its cause, and identify exactly what information was compromised. The company has warned the public against accessing the leaked data, citing potential malware infection risks - a common concern when dealing with files from unauthorized sources.
