Ensemble Stars! Music Producer Satoru Kuwabara Resigns After Relationship Allegations
Ensemble Stars! series music producer Satoru Kuwabara has resigned after admitting to relationship allegations. According to an announcement from the official channels of the game operated by Happy Elements, Kuwabara stepped down due to unethical behavior, and all creative staff at the music label Arte Refact, which he founded, will also leave as of June 30, 2026.
Kuwabara, through Arte Refact which he founded in 2015, created iconic songs for the Ensemble Stars! universe, shaping the game's sound world especially with tracks like "Only Your Stars!" and "Melody in the Dark". However, allegations of inappropriate relationships in his private life that emerged in recent weeks caused a huge shock among the fan base. Kuwabara confirmed the allegations by publishing an apology letter and stated, "I have abused the trust of my fans and colleagues."
This development will directly affect the future music production of Ensemble Stars! Music (Enstars!). The game features a large roster of over 40 idols, each specializing in different music genres. With the departure of Arte Refact, it is stated that upcoming summer events and new song packs may be delayed. Happy Elements has not yet announced a new music producer or label agreement, but stated that the process is ongoing and that fans will be informed as soon as possible.
Such scandals are not uncommon in the mobile game industry, especially where fan interaction is intense. Games like Love Live! School Idol Festival and BanG Dream! Girls Band Party!, which experienced similar situations in the past, continued by changing their creative teams. While the Ensemble Stars! community remains silent for now, discussions continue on social media under hashtags like #SupportEnstars and #JusticeForArteRefact. An official live stream or blog post expected in the coming weeks will provide a clearer picture of the game's musical direction.
