Kotaro Uchikoshi Announces Canceled Game and New Studio Crash Keys

Creator Kotaro Uchikoshi has revealed that a new project developed by his recently established studio, Crash Keys, was abruptly canceled after eighteen months of production. The announcement appeared on the official website for the studio, which Uchikoshi founded in March 2025. Originally, the developer planned to unveil both the company and its upcoming title in 2027, but the premature cancellation forced an earlier disclosure.

The site currently invites visitors to submit work requests, investment proposals, or invitations to seminars via a contact form. It also lists key staff members, including Akira Mine as a writer and Muri Sasaki as a scriptwriter. While no specific game details are provided, the platform features cryptic references to locations from the Zero Escape series, such as Rhizome-9 and HLPUL UFHLK. These elements suggest the possibility of an alternate reality game tied to a future entry in that franchise.

Anime News Network reported on October 14, 2026, that Kōtarō Uchikoshi announced the Crash Keys company alongside a canceled game. Gematsu also covered the establishment of the new studio CRASH KEYS on October 14, 2026.